Shambles Street and choosing our ghost.
York Shambles streets were, of course, our first stop. I was really looking forward to walking among the medieval overhanging buildings and trying to reconnect with the past, imagining what life was like back then: the smells, the work, the people walking along those narrow streets.
Although the original Shambles shopfronts haven't survived for centuries, some properties still have the old wooden shelves outside where meat was once displayed away from direct sunlight. Try to imagine it as it used to be, with meat hanging from windows, blood stains on the ground, and butchers cutting away as you walked past. It is, of course, a very different look and smell today. The old meat district has been replaced by independent coffee shops, quirky boutiques and chocolate stores. Now the air smells of chocolate, coffee and perfume, which is definitely more pleasant.
It is said that the Shambles inspired Diagon Alley when J.K. Rowling wrote Harry Potter, and if you are a fan, you will be happy to know the street is full of quirky Harry Potter shops that would make any fan very happy. I visited all of them, but the one I was most excited to experience was The York Ghost Merchants. Who wouldn’t want their own little ghost from one of the most haunted cities in Europe? I certainly did.
Be prepared to queue though. I wasn’t expecting it, and the wait was around 45 minutes. The shop is small, so they operate a one‑in‑one‑out system. I actually think it works better that way, as you don’t have to squeeze yourself in, and you can take your time choosing the ghost you want to bring home. It is a tough decision, I can tell you that.
Did you know that York has been selling little ghosts since 1852? When I say it is a tradition, I mean it. When in York, it must be done.
Visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre
Next, we had a date with the Vikings at the Jorvik Viking Centre, right in the middle of the city. Book in advance, as this centre is very popular. No pictures were allowed inside, but when I say it is rich in history, I mean it.
The Vikings arrived in York in 866 AD, and the centre is built exactly where their first settlement was. Even better, the layout follows the traces of the original remains. You cannot get any closer to our ancestors than that.
You will discover everything about their daily life, what they wore, what they ate and how they lived. There are displays, wax models and videos at every corner. It is a real treat for the eyes and fascinating for the younger generation. Viking is in my blood (I have the DNA test to claim this), so it was extraordinary to see. Highly recommended, but remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
A Spooky Stop at York Dungeon
A couple of minutes’ walk from the Viking Centre, you can stop at the York Dungeon for some scary experiences. To be honest, we didn’t know what to expect and weren’t planning on going, but as we have the Merlin Pass, we decided to try it, and we certainly did not regret it.
It was more fun than I expected. Ten rooms with ten actors, and the whole experience lasts around 75 minutes. It was funny, spooky and full of surprises. Unfortunately, no pictures were allowed, but if you have the time, do visit. I also recommend it. Just don’t bring children under eight, as it can get a bit too scary for them, but apart from that, it is great spooky fun.
Wandering York: Shambles, Abbey and Riverside Walks
We spent the rest of our day wandering through the Shambles again, visiting York Abbey, enjoying ice cream and walking alongside the river. The sun was out, it was around 20 degrees, and it was absolutely lovely.
We also spent a little time looking at shops and came back with a few souvenirs, from fridge magnets to rainbow mini ducks. My daughter saw them and went crazy over them, so we are now the parents of ten rainbow mini ducks, as you do.
Final Thoughts on York
York has my heart. I didn’t know what to expect, and I came back with beautiful memories and so much fun. York, you have been great and beautiful, and I will surely be back to visit you again. Would I buy another ghost? Of course. It is tradition after all.
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