Things to Do in York - page 2
Beningbrough Hall, an 18th-century former family home occupied by the Royal Air Force during World War II, is one of York’s most important historical highlights. Linger in front of the 100+ portraits that hang inside, courtesy of a partnership with the National Portrait Gallery. Then stroll through the gardens, where staff sometimes offer growing tips to interested visitors.
Few places offer such intimate insight into the York chocolate industry as Goddards House and Garden, once home to the family behind the Terry’s confectionery company. Nowadays, Goddards pays homage to York’s chocolate past, as well as life in the 1930s. Don’t forget to stop by the on-site café for some chocolate orange cake and coffee.
Yorkshire has long been the rural heart of northern England and the Yorkshire Museum of Farming is devoted to telling the story of its history and heritage. Spread over 14 acres of farmlands in Murton Park, just outside of York, the museum offers a fascinating peek into traditional farm life, displaying a large collection of farm equipment from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Visitors can follow a year on the farm in the Four Seasons gallery, learn about animal husbandry in the Livestock Gallery, and discover the work of the Women’s Land Army during WWI and WWII. The farm also offers plenty of fun family activities, including tractor rides, animal feeding, farrier demonstrations and a nature trail, plus a farmhouse café and an adventure playground.
From grain to glass, see how traditional ale is created at York Brewery. Located just inside the city walls on Toft Green, York Brewery has been handcrafting real ales since 1996.
The brewery site was built in the late 16th century, and has seen many uses over its history, but now it is home to a 20-barrel brew plant, with six traditional open top fermenters and five conditioning tanks. You can see it all in action, and enjoy four tastes, when you visit.
Groups meet in the brewery taproom, giving you an opportunity to have a taste before heading out on a guided tour. There are plenty of stops along the way to get a good view of the hard work of the Master Brewer. By the time the tour is over you’ll understand how the entire brewing process works.
Please note York Brewery is currently brewing in a temporary location.