York

 "The history of York is the history of England"
                                               - George VI

                                   York Minster

The sense of history in the UK is still hard for me to fathom.  This week Abbie and I visited York, a city once known as Eboracum to the Romans, Eoforwic to the Saxons, Jorvik to the Vikings......a few Norwegians show up in the mix but don't last....until finally William the Conqueror and the Normans show up in 1069.  Phew!  Everybody wants this place!


Abbie and I toured the Minster, a beautiful Cathedral that contains elements of all of these cultures, including Roman ruins in the crypt.  The twelfth century stained glass windows are stunning.  And amazing to a mom who has seen kitchen glasses go in less than a year!

Abbie and I climb the tower of the Minster for a fabulous view!

Detail of the Choir screen that features all of the kings who reigned during the building of the cathedral, from William the Conqueror to Henry VI.
For more info and pictures of the Minster check out this website:  York Minster


This ancient city is surrounded by a wall, and some of the original gates (or 'bars') still exist.  Walmgate bar still has the barbican structure with a portcullis and inner doors to trap invaders. 

           Abbie running along the city wall.

          The barbican of Walmgate.

Above the barbican is the original gatehouse.  It now houses a very cool coffeeshop!

                        Abbie at York Castle.


York also has some fabulous shopping.  There are narrow, cobble streets that wind from one walled gateway to another, lined with little shops.  

The "Purpleman" - a famous living statue in the shopping district.


York is also known as the birthplace of Guy Fawkes, famed conspirator in the Gunpowder Plot of the early 1600's.  His effigy is burned on November 5th to commemorate his failed attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

Guy Fawkes home - a picture for the "V for Vendetta" fans!


But our favorite thing about York was visiting our friends, Adrian and Ann Bradley.  I first met them on a trip to Key West with my sister Sue a few years back and we've kept in contact through Facebook.  They are the gracious hosts at the Barbican House Bed and Breakfast, a beautiful Victorian era home just outside the city wall.  We had a wonderful visit with them - and their adorable Jack Russell Terrier Alfie!  

                    Enjoying a night out with Ann & Adrian! 

                     Barbican House - Ann & Adrian Bradley's B&B