Historic Sites in Goole

"Small but perfectly formed, Clifford’s Tower offers, among other things, splendid views across the city and York Minster from its circular platform up high. It also tells an interesting tale, often referred to as York Castle, the site dates back to 1068 when William the Conqueror was busy trying to rid the north of Vikings and built a number of castles on his way. While many battles raged over the centuries (the murky Jewish massacre of 1190 cast a long shadow), York Castle’s role evolved, including stints as a prison and a royal mint."

"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."

"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."

"The Merchant Adventurers' Hall is a restored medieval guildhall dating from the 14th century. The Great Hall is Britain's largest timber-framed building still used for its original purpose. The hall is still used by the Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York, now a charitable organization."

"Like a moment frozen in time, York’s Cold War bunker takes visitors back to an era where the threat of nuclear explosions prompted the construction of this space. The partially-underground bunker is a glimpse into the recent history of the British Cold War, built in 1961 to monitor fallout. It was decommissioned in the 1990s, but remains a reminder of what it is like to live under the threat of nuclear war."

"Experience life in a cold war bunker and discover the history of the volunteers who would have played a vital role in ensuring Britain could withstand a nuclear attack. Through a one hour guided tour, you’ll learn about this recent period in British history and how the people of York prepared for the threat of nuclear war."

"This pink facade building on St. Helen’s Square (near Betty’s Tea Rooms) is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of York and has only recently opened to the public. The grand, 800 year old house showcases collections of silverware and ceramics, ceremonial items used by the Lord Mayor as well as recreated 18th century bedrooms and dining rooms. The downstairs kitchen has interactive exhibits and equipment to learn about Georgian cooking ."

"The Georgian-style Mansion House in York is the home of the city's Lord Mayors during their term in office. This is the earliest purpose-built house of this sort still in use – it predates the Mansion House in London by at least 20 years. The foundation stone for the building was laid in 1725, and it was completed seven years later, in 1732."

"Loch Fyne was “brought to life by two oyster enthusiasts, Johnny and Andy, who started selling their oysters from a small shack on the west coast of Scotland. We now have 22 Restaurants up and down the country, providing fresh, sustainably sourced seafood dishes; much of which is delivered fresh from the loch itself.”  Loch Fyne have a good brunch menu including Baked eggs, Loch Fyne Kippers, Avocado, pink grapefruit and chilli and the Loch Fyne Breakfast (grilled sausage, back bacon, black pudding, haggis, mushroom, baked beans, tomato, egg how you like it and toasted sourdough)."

"Although Loch Fyne is part of a chain, it still provides a personal experience to your dining. Starting out in the 1970s on the west coast of Scotland, Loch Fyne has spread all the way down to the south of England. Its wonderful location in York has it sitting on the gorgeous River Foss (Loch Fyne is on the right in the photo), in a beautiful old building that has retained much of its original fixtures that provide a unique experience for its costumers!"

"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 Ivy in York do a Saturday and Sunday Brunch (and bank holidays). The restaurant itself is a beautiful art deco inspired space. With options like Truffle Arancini, Zucchini fritti, Eggs Benedict and Avocado Benedict, as well as Hot Buttermilk Pancakes for those (like me) with a sweet tooth!"

"Opened in York some 18 years ago, it features in all the prominent food guides, including the Good Food Guide. The service is fantastic, and their passion for food is evident through the carefully crafted dishes that the talented head chef has created. Since it was founded, it’s been one of York’s most popular foodie destinations, and those that have visited before will understand why."

"Run by chef Michael Hjort and wife Lucy, Melton’s is an intimate restaurant serving high-end European food. Hjort trained with the Rouxs, so his cooking is refined yet down-to-earth. If you get menu panic when faced with too many delish options, go for the five-course tasting menu."

"What: Small, unassuming, and tucked away down one of the city’s quieter streets, this incredible restaurant is a must for any visiting (or resident) foodie. Aptly named, Le Cochon Aveugle deals solely in ‘blind’ tasting menus (four or six courses with optional wine pairings), which are modestly-priced given the quality, and make for a wonderfully relaxed and indulgent evening. The interiors are nothing special but the skill of the chefs is, meaning dishes as simple as scallops with butter are exceptional."

"Serving a contemporary European menu rooted in classical French techniques. Delivering a 3-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for £40. Check Facebook for their menu."