Visiting York
The Symposium will take place in the historic city of York, in North Yorkshire, a setting that has thrived through centuries of change. With a rich legacy of resilience, from its Viking and medieval roots to its modern-day innovation, York offers an inspiring backdrop for meaningful discussions about overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities for growth.
The city of York was founded by Romans and later transformed into a Viking settlement founded in the 9th century. Today, York is a must-visit destination, characterised by the ancient city walls, the stunning York Minster, renowned museums and the enchanting medieval street Shambles — even a real-life Diagon Alley that Harry Potter fans should not miss! If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be captivated by the lingering aroma of chocolate that fills the air in York (truly!), a reminder of its rich history tied to cocoa.
We have created a small guide of main tourist attractions in York. For more information please go to VisitYork, or City life – Student life, University of York.
Accommodation
There are several options that you might consider when booking your accommodation to stay in York during the Symposium (e.g., staying with friends, Airbnb, Booking, etc.). As July is a busy period of time, we strongly advise you to book your accommodation as soon as possible!
Secured accommodation via SRUK/CERU
To facilitate attendance we have secured special rates (£69.6/person/night including VAT) in James College.
The rooms are of single occupancy with a private bathroom and the rates include breakfast. These rooms will be booked on a first come, first served basis and we expect them to sell out.
Booking and payment will be done when you register to attend the Symposium online.
IMPORTANT: If you decide to book one of such rooms, please read the agreement and rules we have signed and agreed to; amongst which we would like to highlight the following:
- You confirm that you will abide to the agreement with the accommodation.
- You confirm that you will cover the costs if SRUK/CERU is charged by any damage caused to the accommodation.
Commute
Travelling to Newcastle by Train
York is well-connected by rail, offering direct services from London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and beyond. Trains from London or Edinburgh could take under 2.5 hours, whilst from Manchester take 1.5h.
Many of the available train services require you to book your tickets in advance to guarantee a specific reduced price. You can buy train tickets directly from the various train companies operating in the UK (they all have their own websites). Alternatively, you may also use the Trainline app, which can conveniently generate e-tickets if QR code readers are enabled at the stations that connect your journey (otherwise, I code will be sent to you so that you can print your tickets at the station).
Getting around york
York is a pedestrian-friendly city, easy to explore on foot. The major tourist attractions are inside the city walls, all within walking distance of each other. Walking through the medieval streets is one of the best ways to discover the beauty of each corner, shop, and monuments.
Alternatively, you can rent a bike to explore the city — riding alongside River Ouse is one of our recommendations! In addition, you can use the bus network (you can book through the York First website) or book taxi services (or other alternative private transport) to tour around the city.
Accessing Merchant Taylors Hall on Friday will require walking through pebbled streets as buses do not directly access this part of the city. Instead, you can walk from the city centre to the Department of Biology at the University of York (~30 minutes from the walls) or take a York First bus.
The best routes to the Symposium venue will depend on where you are travelling from. Consequently, please take your time to familiarise with the venue and plan your commute well in advance — map applications shall also be very convenient!
Explore Historic and Cultural Landmarks
york minster
York Minster is one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe located at the heart of York. Famous for its impressive architecture dated back to the 12th and 15th centuries, its Central Tower of 72 meters and stained glass window with vibrant colours and depicting religious stories is something you should not miss! This cathedral has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years and witnessed many important ceremonial and religious events of English history.
Clifford’s tower
Clifford’s Tower is situated on a small hill and offers 360-degree panoramic views of York. It is the remains of a Norman castle dating back to the 11th century, and its history includes tragic historical events.
The shambles
The Shambles is one of the most iconic and picturesque streets in York. It is a narrow and cobbled-stone medieval street, lined with timber-framed buildings that seem to lean towards one another, creating its charming atmosphere. Many buildings date back to the 14th century and were originally butcher shops, but now are filled with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. The Shambles is often referred to as the “most photographed street in the UK” and is considered to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.
Enjoy Outdoor Escapes
York City Walls
York City Walls are one of the most iconic landmarks in York. They are the most complete and well-preserved city walls in England and offer a unique opportunity to see great views of all the main attractions. They are approximately 2 miles (3.2. km) in length all around the city centre with multiple towers, bastions, and gates such as Bootham Bar (north side and the closest to York Minster), Micklegate Bar (south side), Walmgate Bar (southeast side), or Monk Bar (northeast side). There are parts of the walls with narrow passageways, elevated parts, and stairs. You can take a look at a map of the walls and accessibility via this link.
Museum gardens and the yorkshire museum
Museum Gardens, a public garden with the Roman ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, dated back to the 11th century, and the Yorkshire Museum is one of the earliest purpose-built museums in the country. Both are located just a short walk from the city centre, and the gardens are an ideal picnic and relaxation spot with plenty of open lawns, flowerbeds, trees, and wildlife.
the river ouse
The River Ouse runs through York and has several walking and cycling paths. If you prefer to experience York’s iconic landmarks from the water, you may like to know that boat tours run multiple times a day!
yorkshire arboretum
Yorkshire Arboretum, located outside York, is a botanical garden. Lovely spot for nature lovers and enjoying a peaceful walk.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Jorvik Viking Centre
Jorvik Viking Centre is an immersive attraction to experience life during the Viking Age. The centre builds on top of archeological Viking excavations, displaying thousand of artefacts, tools, and weapons.
Discovery Museum
Castle Howard, Howard family’s home and estate, was built in the early 18th century located 15 miles north of York. It has beautiful gardens and Baroque architecture. The castle has an extensive art collection and the estate has been used as a filming location for numerous films and series.
Yorkshire Museum
Yorkshire Museum showcases the rich history and heritage of the Yorkshire region. It is located inside the Museum Gardens and includes diverse collections, including Roman and Viking artefacts, geological collections, and Yorkshire’s preserved flora and fauna.
York Castle museum
York Castle Museum is located in the former prison buildings of York Castle, which was built in 1068. It gives an immersive experience of life through the ages in York, thus exhibiting the city’s rich history.
National Railway Museum
National Railway Museum is a family-friendly attraction and dedicated to train lovers. It includes iconic locomotives and exhibits the origins of the railways, stories of people behind the trains, and vintage tickets and uniforms — free admissions too!
York’s Chocolate Story
York’s Chocolate Story is the perfect attraction for all ages, and offers a journey throughout the history and legacy of chocolate and its York’s manufacturers, including Rowntree’s and its association with Nestlé and Terry’s. It is located in the heart of York, a couple of minutes walking from the Shambles and York Minster. It includes special activities such as chocolate-making workshops for children.
The Dungeon
The Dungeon, with a spooky and eerie atmosphere, features live actors portraying York’s infamous dark characters, such as Guy Fawkes. The show is both educational and entertaining and offers hands-on experience of exhibits showcasing some of the horrors of medieval life and Viking invasions.
The Cat Trail
The Cat Trail is a unique and quirky way to explore the city with a bit of fun. This is a self-guided tour where you aim to discover cat-themed statues scattered around the historic streets of York. Some will be easily spotted whilst others are more hidden. Fun and accessible for all ages. You may want to check a map of the Cat Trail before your adventure!
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Grainger Market
Betty’s Café Tea Rooms offers a traditional British tea room experience. It has become a landmark in the city due to its art-deco décor, warm atmosphere, and delicious menu. Located in St Helen’s square within the city walls.
The Shambles Market
The Shambles Market is located in the heart of York. Visitors can shop for fresh products and eat freshly baked goods or street food.