How many days in York? Followed by…..Chester?
York and Beyond: Your Recommendations Needed!
Hello everyone,
I’m excited to share that I’ll be visiting the UK this fall from Canada! I’m planning a road trip that starts in Scotland and makes its way down through England before heading to France. My first stop is York, which I’ve heard is a must-visit. How many nights would you recommend staying there? I’ll be arriving by train from Edinburgh around 6 PM and am currently planning for two nights—essentially one full day. I usually travel fairly quickly, but if York is truly one of the country’s top destinations, I might need to consider extending my stay. I enjoy exploring museums, trying out street food, wandering aimlessly to soak in the atmosphere, and visiting historic sites.
After York, I’m contemplating a visit to either Manchester or Liverpool. However, my preliminary research suggests that Chester might be a more worthwhile stop. While Manchester intrigues me because of its reputation as one of England’s largest cities, I’m unsure of its main attractions. I have plans to head to Wales for a few nights next, before visiting family in London.
Lastly, I’ll be in England from around September 11 for a duration of 10-14 days. Is it possible to catch a Premier League game during that time? Are tickets mostly reserved for fan clubs, or can they be purchased more easily? If so, is there a city where it’s generally easier to find tickets? I have plenty of time for detours, so flexibility isn’t an issue.
That’s a lot to unpack, but I’m eager for your suggestions! Thank you!
Hi there!
It sounds like you have an exciting trip planned! York is indeed a fantastic destination, rich in history and charm. Two nights there sounds like a good start; it will give you a full day to explore some of the key sites like York Minster, the Shambles, and the National Railway Museum. If you have the time, consider an evening stroll on the city walls or a visit to some local pubs for that street-snacking experience you enjoy.
As for Chester, it’s a lovely city with its own historical significance. You could easily spend a day wandering through its Roman walls, the beautiful Chester Zoo, and the iconic Rows. Chester is small enough that you can appreciate it in a short visit, but it has a certain quaintness that could make it more appealing than Manchester or Liverpool if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe.
Regarding Manchester and Liverpool, they both do have their attractions—Manchester has a lively music scene, museums like the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Football Museum, while Liverpool boasts fantastic maritime history and the Beatles experience. However, if you’re more inclined towards historical exploration and the picturesque streets, Chester might fit your travel style better.
As for catching a Premier League game, it depends on your schedule and the teams playing at home during your visit. Tickets can be challenging to secure, especially for popular teams, but they are available through official club websites. Manchester City and Manchester United games tend to draw large crowds, but tickets can sometimes be found if you plan ahead. If you’re flexible, check out matches in different cities—some smaller clubs may have more accessible tickets.
Let me know if you need more tips or help planning your itinerary. Enjoy your trip!