Hidden Gems

Many have visited the Minster, but few will realise that you can take a tour of Bishopthorpe Palace, home to the Archbishops of York for over 750 years. Set on the banks of the River Ouse, Bishopthorpe Palace is located within beautiful gardens, which were established in the 11th Century. The Chapel is the oldest part of the Palace and is used for private prayer on a daily basis. Special tours can only be arranged for pre-booked groups. (Allow 2 hours - half a day)

Take lunch at the Red House Antiques Centre - this prestigious building houses over 60 antique dealers and their wares. Lectures on a whole array of topics can be arranged at the Centre with specialist guest speakers. The Red House Dining Room serves delicious light lunches, afternoon teas and suppers.

Disappear into the Snickleways of York to find Barley Hall, a wonderful medieval townhouse, now restored to its former glory. Discover how life was in the home of Alderman William Snawsell with an audio tour featuring Dame Judi Dench and Robert Hardy. (Allow 2 hours).

Visit Sutton Park in the village of Sutton on the Forest. Home to Sir Reginald and Lady Sheffield, it has a very lived in feel to it and the owners have been known to dine with their overnight visitors on special occasions! The house is early Georgian style and contains examples of exquisite hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and a wonderful collection of porcelain including Meissen and Sevres. Enjoy a stroll in the gardens which overlooks spacious parkland which is thought to have been designed by Meikle, a follower of Capability Brown.