Viking York

During the Viking era prosperous York was known as "Jorvik", a vibrant, thriving centre of trade. It was an obvious target for the Vikings to descend upon in 866. A great proportion of York's street names are of Viking origin, "gate" meaning street for instance Coppergate, Skeldergate and Goodramgate. Even today you can discover the sights, sounds and smells of that period in the JORVIK. The new £5m redevelopment of Jorvik is a fascinating trip back in history. (Allow 1 hour 30 minutes).

For an interactive experience, move onto the DIG. The DIG provides adults and children will experiencethe ultimate archaeological adventure and have the opportunity to learn about 2000 years of Yorks history. Visitors can experience a simulated, realistic excavation and then analyse their findings at 3 work bases. (Allow 2 hours). (Allow half a day).

To round off the afternoon travel out to Murton Park, the Yorkshire Museum of Farming which includes an impressive collection of farm machinery, a "real" Roman Fort, Brigantium and the Danelaw Dark Age Village. (Allow half a day).

Every year the city celebrates its Viking heritage with the Jorvik Viking Festival in February. See the event section for dates.