Romantic York
Love and romance come in many different guises, that much is certainly the truth. But if you’re looking for romantic introductions to York, there are a few which are beyond question.
The first is that this was the birthplace of WH Auden, surely these days one of the most quoted 20th century poets in the world on the subject of love.
The next is York Minster – did any building in Britain ever inspire such feelings from the heart as this Gothic masterpiece? “The day we spent in York Minster brought us together – thank you”; “We visited the Minster and sat in the Nave for a long while and on our return home we announced our engagement.” These are just a couple of the many messages posted on York Minster's website in appreciation of its romantic powers!
And then of course there is the undisputed romance of the railways – and in York that means not only the beautiful Victorian railway station – could there be a more slushy setting for farewells or reunions? But also the National Railway Museum and, out of town, the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway, a romantic journey if ever there was one.
So if you’re looking for a little romance in your life, York is the answer. Take a moonlit cruise down the Ouse, indulge in dinner at beautiful St William’s College, and wake up to a breathtaking view of the Minster from your bedroom window (something in which the Dean Court Hotel, a stone’s throw from the great West Door, specialises).
It’s a city built for exploring on foot, with plenty of stops for a cappuccino, afternoon tea or something a little stronger along the way.
And what better backdrop for a spot of wooing could there be than the Museum Gardens, with the beautiful ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, or the Treasurer’s House, complete with charming gardens, tucked away behind the Minster? For total, unashamed romance, hire a horse and cart for your tour of the city, leaving you free to gaze adoringly into each other’s eyes. Tours leave from outside the Minster.
Romantic Days Out
York is also within easy reach of some of the most beautiful and evocative sites in England. Heathcliff and Cathy country is only an hour or so away in the rugged village of Haworth (home of the Bronte family), and the North York Moors National Park is the ideal place to get away from it all – set the scene by taking the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway from Pickering to Goathland, in the heart of the National Park, instantly recognisable as Heartbeat country. The fantastic ruined abbeys of Fountains, Rievaulx and Jervaulx are also within day-out range, as is Castle Howard, perhaps the finest of all English stately homes and unmissable for any Brideshead Revisited devotees: it served as the home to the doomed but definitely romantic Flyte family in the classic television series.
Biggest Collection of Valentine Cards
The Castle Museum is home to one of the biggest collections of Valentine cards. A thousand or more messages of love are in the archives – including the earliest dated and printed card in existence. This was sent on 12 January 1797 by Catherine (whose surname is impossible to decipher, but it might be Mossday) to a Mr Brown who may have lived in London.
St Martin’s Church
Although all churches in York are extremely beautiful and picturesque, St Martin-le-Grand in Coney Street is singled out here especially because of its plaque commemorating a certain Valentine Nalson – pastor of St Martin’s in the 18th century.
Love Lanes
There are actually two love lanes in York, double the quota in most cities. One is found behind The Mount, the other alongside the Ouse in Fulford. They are certainly a more poetic destination than the city centre street Grape Lane – which derives from the Old English grapian – “to grope”.
Wedding Bells
York has any number of unique venues for an extra special day to remember. The ceremony itself could be held in the authentic medieval Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, for example – or in one of the city’s outstanding historic churches. And you will find any of the hotels or attractions happy to host a wedding reception.
If music be the food of love…
It's sometimes overlooked, but York is a great musical city and home to the unique Early Music Centre in Walmgate (and very romantic the converted church with its beautiful garden is, too). Or what about sitting in the atmospheric surroundings of the Minster and listening to Evensong with the one you love - unforgettable. Phone 01904 557200 to check for Evensong times (normally every day at 5 pm and 4 pm on Saturdays).
Romantic Shopping
So, if York has worked its magic and you’ve decided to throw in the ultimate finishing touch, you’ll be needing the jewellers next. In York you can choose from countless antique jewellery dealers, such as the Cavendish Antique and Collectors Centre on Stonegate or go for one of the superb contemporary jewellery design shops such as Monkey Puzzle on High Petergate.
Where to stay
If something a little bit special is required, try somewhere like:
Middlethorpe Hall
A distinguished Queen Anne house in 26 acres of parkland, yet convenient for the city centre. 30 beautifully appointed bedrooms. Tel: 01904 641241.
The Grange
An elegant Regency townhouse with 30 individually-designed bedrooms and three excellent restaurants. Only minutes from the Minster. Tel: 01904 644744.
Blue Rooms at the Blue Bicycle
Two luxurious apartments, with Villeroy and Bosch bathrooms, steam showers, luxury kitchens, Bang & Olufsen hi-fi systems, goose-down quilts and pillows. What’s more, breakfast is provided in the rooms by the Blue Bicycle chef. 4 Franklin's Yard, off Fossgate. Tel: 01904 673990, website: www.thebluebicycle.com
The Hazelwood
Comprises two elegant Victorian town houses with many original features. It is located in the quiet Gillygate conservation area adjacent to the ancient city wall. It is an ideal base from which to explore York’s historic attractions and the wide variety of shops and restaurants. Tel: 01904 626548.
Dean Court Hotel
Magnificent location adjacent to the Minster. Easy walking distance to all major attractions, plus great food. Tel: 01904 625082.
Where to eat
St. William’s College Restaurant
In York’s most romantic corner, beside the Minster, with a wonderful view of the East Window, the restaurant is within lovely 15th century college buildings, providing a dark, intimate atmosphere, perfect for candlelight. All that and great food too! Tel: 01904 634830.
Meltons
Elegant 1930s style murals, classical music, shelves of old books and an excellent wine collection all make for relaxed, but sophisticated romance. Quality Anglo-French fare from Roux trained chef Michael Hjort. Tel: 01904 634341.
Blue Bicycle Restaurant
Very popular intimate restaurant with finest food. The building was once a brothel, and beautiful voluptuous décor reflects the history – all in the best possible taste! Tel: 01904 673990.
For any further information and your free guide to York please contact: York Visitor Information Centre, Tel: 01904 550099, email: info@visityork.org or visit the website at www.visityork.org
Press contact: Kay Hyde, PR Manager - Visit York, Tel: 01904 554451, email: kh@visityork.org website: www.visityork.org