The king had his own fishpond in York back in the old days and Roman Catholic martyr Margaret Clitherow now has her own commemorative plaque on the Ouse Bridge. But the historic city of York, with its cathedrals, dungeons and battle sites, has something for everyone. The York Minster is worth the trip in itself, both for the Gothic architecture and the views from its tower. A stroll down The Shambles is like walking far back in time, except that you can also buy souvenirs along the way. If you're planning to leave your footprints by the ancient city walls, start at Monk Bar, the tallest of the four main city gates. And why not book a hotel nearby too?