Day 11 in the UK: A surprise!

Day 11 in the UK: A surprise! Today, we took a train to York. It came up when searching for day trips from Newcastle, so we went with little planning but open minds. 

And wow, York is amazing! The architecture is fantastic, it has one of the most intact city walls, and just so much to explore. 

First up, we went to JORVIK Viking Museum, which is on the site of an archaeological dig from the 1970s that uncovered an amazingly well preserved viking settlement. It was so cool to see the dig site, and they had a ride that takes you through the reconstructed village and what it could have looked like pre-1066. Pretty darn cool to see. And the museum has some really well preserved items, including textiles such as wool and cloth. It was a very cool museum and (if I'm being honest) it was nice to see and witness the history of something other than the Romans.

After that, it was a visit to The Shop That Must Not Be Named, obviously to stock up on all our Harry Potter needs. Which we did. Gladly.  

We then walked through York, checking out cute streets and the cathedral. Then, thankfully, we got on the Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus to get a chance to see more of the city (my ankle was starting to seize up so it appreciated the break). It's such a beautiful city! 

Then, to finish we walked through the York Food Festival (on it's last day). So many smells and sights.... too much.... my nose got overwhelmed which caused my stomach to not want anything. Shocking, I know. But it was great to see such a vibrant food scene. 

And then it was time to catch the train back to Newcastle. Once back, I visited the pool and hot tub at the hotel to just float and try to heal this sore and tired body. And then, because I didn't want to get dressed up and leave, room service for dinner (penne carbonara, feta bruschetta, lemon cheesecake). In a robe. Watching British TV. Just what I needed. 

It was a great day. York was a surprise and I'd definitely go back to explore more! Tomorrow, a castle visit. Alnwick Castle, famous as the site of Hogwart's and from Downton Abbey. So excited!!!