After our stay in Stratford, our class headed towards the historic town of Coventry, England. For those of you who don't know, this is the town where Lady Godiva rode naked through the town, inspiring generations of people and a delicious chocolate company. In case you're wondering, yes, I do endorse Godiva chocolates. They can go on my treats list any time!
But the reason we stopped in Coventry was to see the cathedral. The old one, along with most of Coventry, was blown to smithereens by the Nazis during WW2. It's haunting to walk where the old cathedral had been, and then to walk through the new cathedral (which is a religious structure, but also serves as a reminder for peace and the consequences of war).
Inside the new cathedral in Coventry - one of the many beautiful symbols of peace
The old bell tower of the cathedral that was bombed during WW2 - it's pretty much all that's left
After a short stop in Coventry, we headed on to York. York is incredible! We stayed at the Ace Hotel which is a fabulous old hotel (supposedly haunted of course) that has everything from very affordable hostel-like rooms (which is where all of us students stayed) to nicer hotel-like rooms (which is where our professors stayed). The location is nice too, with quick access to several restaurants, bars, and other attractions (like the old stone wall that surrounded the city).
While in York, we went on a ghost tour which was a little cheesy but a lot of fun - and it made for a nice walking tour of the city and our guide was quite the story teller. We also did a tour of York Minster, which was fascinating. From an architectural standpoint, it's magnificent, from a historical standpoint it's awe-inspiring, and they do a great job at reminding people that it's a religious building, not something to simply gawk at.
All in all, York is a place that I would love to return to one day to spend more time there. The city is charming, the rich history appeals to me (starting from the Romans and working your way up to the present day), and it was a great place to visit.
Inside York Minster - this picture doesn't do it justice, it is far larger and far grander
Coventry, England
What to see...
Coventry Cathedral
Stanley rating: *****
Absolutely stunning, and it has great historical significance. Plus, if the old bell tower is open (one of the few things that remains intact from the old cathedral) there are great views of the city from the top.
York, England
What to eat...
The Hole in the Wall
Stanley rating: *****
Great place for lunch! It's right down the street from York Minster. They have a great menu with good English pub food. It's also got a good vibe, and even has a ghost story!
Recommended eats: Any of the burgers. They serve it on ciabatta buns with a great spread.
The Punch Bowl
Stanley rating: ****
Good pub food, drinks, and desserts! If you're traveling on a budget, this is right down the street from the Ace Hotel, which is super affordable. And ladies, not that I care since I'm a male bear, but the bar staff is pretty good looking. It seems like a pretty hopping place though, so don't go with a big group or you might have trouble finding a table.
Recommended eats: Their extra chocolate cake.
What to see...
York Ghost Tour
Stanley rating: ***
This might not be your thing, but if it is I would recommend going on a ghost tour through York. Our tour guide was a great little actor, and even though some of the stories were a bit cheesy, some of them could give you chills! It's also a fun way to tour the city at night.
York Minster
Stanley rating: *****
If you're going to go to York, you have to stop at the Minster. It's absolutely breathtaking. Well worth your time, especially if you're interested in architecture at all. And for all you history buffs out there, it has quite the fascinating story.
Where to stay...
Ace Hotel
Stanley rating: ****
The Ace Hotel is gorgeous, historical, has decent lodgings, and is SUPER affordable. Great for groups that are traveling together as they have several rooms with bunk beds in them.
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