Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Strensall

"Perched atop a grassy motte is Clifford’s Tower, which is one of the last remaining parts of York Castle. Originally built out of wood by the Normans, it was reinforced and rebuilt out of stone in the thirteenth century and the sturdy keep is now a popular tourist attraction in York. Wrecked by a massive explosion in 1684, its hollow, gutted interior was later used as both a prison and treasury."

"Clifford’s Tower (also known as York Castle) has been at the heart of York for many centuries now. It’s endured a fair few battles and what remains of the fortified complex that once consisted of prisons, castles and law courts, is now a ruinous castle. You can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, where you’ll see panoramic views of the Vale of York."

"The striking contrast of Clifford’s Tower with the green bank of grass it sits on is a classic photo to snap of York!. Make the short (but steep) climb to the top and venture inside for a panorama of York."

"As the name implies, York’s Merchant Adventurers were merchants. They traded along the English coast, northern Europe and sometimes as far as the Baltic and Iceland, bringing back an assortment of desired goods to York. The city was an important river port and the wealthiest city in Northern England, second only to London for most of the Middle Ages, allowing the merchants to make enough money to build the Hall between 1357 and 1361."

"Another excellent photography spot and Instagrammable place in York is the Merchant’s Hall. The Merchant’s Hall has one of the most impressive guildhalls in the world, and sometimes you can get it empty – it’s incredible for photos."

"Housed in a majestic stone building with pillars reminiscent of the Parthenon in Greece, sits one of the best collections of archaeology and geology in Europe. Ranging from prehistoric natural history, through ancient Roman treasure and up toward the modern-day, this is a great early stop on your exploration of York. Arm yourself with knowledge of the history that makes this city so special, and watch as every subsequent attraction comes to life with your new understanding."

"As you know we love spending time outside so it’s nice that there is a lovely outdoor area in the heart of the city. York museum gardens are beautiful gardens even in the winter when we visited. I can only imagine how stunning they are when the flowers are in bloom."

"The quirky Treasurer’s House lies directly behind York Minster and was extensively renovated in the late 19th century. However, the renovations were not of their time but were designed to emulate historical houses of different eras so that the owner, Frank Green, could ‘authentically’ house his collection of historical artefacts. From the timber frame medieval feel of the grand entrance hall to the Victorian bedrooms, this is a house that will keep you guessing!"

"You can find this National Trust Property behind York Minster, this fine 17th Century house was once home to the treasurer's of York Minster. Join a guided tour of Treasurer's House and see over four Centuries of the elegant interior. If you go on the ghost walks in York this is one of the key stops on route!"

"Treasurer’s House is located a few metres from the York Minster and has a history spanning 2,000 years. The house features a collection of antiques including furniture, ceramics, textiles and paintings. 445 metres from the Minster.Minster Yard, York, York YO1 7JL, United Kingdom"

"Located between Leeds and Wetherby, Bramham Park is the site of the iconic Leeds Festival which occurs every August bank holiday weekend. If you don’t hold tickets to the festival, visit during the rest of the year to explore the 18th Century manor house and its sprawling grounds."

"You may have heard of The Ivy restaurant in London; the one in York is very similar and offers luxury food in an opulent setting. Located right next to Betty’s in St. Helen’s Square, The Ivy has become the trendy new place to eat in York. While it’s certainly not the most affordable place to eat in York, you will find a vast range of incredible dishes here, including yummy starters and rich, chocolatey desserts!"

"The Ivy is a place for celebration, champagne and cherished ones. What to have: You can’t go wrong with much here, but look out for the tuna carpaccio with citrus ponzu dressing, and the apple tart fine, flambeed tableside. Sumptuous, bright, and tasteful décor ensure The Ivy is easily recognisable wherever you are."

"The iconic Ivy is located within the bustling St Helen’s Square. Expect all the style and glamour of the original Ivy London, as they serve a delicious selection of savoury and sweet treats 7 days a week. Champagne is obligatory in such a stunning location of course."

"From their website: ‘Our exciting, inventive and varied menus have been especially created by our experienced staff, and are La Vecchia Scuola’s distinguishing – and distinguished – culinary feature. We believe in serving only the very best in contemporary Italian cooking.’"

"05/06/2021: The restaurant is one of two we tend to visit whenever we come to York. The building and surroundings are stunning and this is a big draw. On this occasion we were put in a side room with three other tables."

"Just outside Scarborough and on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, the Plough is a historic pub with rooms that ooze homely character. Styled as a village pub with rooms (eight luxury en-suites and five self-catering cottages dotted nearby, to be exact) guests can enjoy quintessential Yorkshire hospitality and creature comforts galore, including roll-top baths, handmade four-poster beds and wool blankets that put the cute country twee in tweed. Not much can beat rolling into a hotel bed after a hearty pub meal."

"Middletons is a collection of Grade II-listed buildings in a leafy, residential street within York’s medieval walls, a short walk to the city centre and a few minutes from the River Ouse. It's gradually being refurbished and guests have free use of the health and fitness club, one of the biggest in York."