This morning started with a climb that seemed like a "Stairway to Heaven" but in reality was only 275 steps up circular stairwells to the roof of York Minster. It was a good workout that left us set up for the day - somewhat stuffed... All jokes aside, the effort of climbing up there was worth it for the views and for being able to see the high-level building details up close.
Flying buttresses of the York Minster
The view from the top - looking West
After descending the stairs (which seemed to be harder on the knees than going up), we strolled around the Minster. It has undergone a considerable amount of restoration in recent years (partly due to collapsing foundations and partly due to a fire) and the work continues. We were unable to see the Great East Window but we were able to read about the restoration work currently underway. The Great West Window, also known as the Heart of Yorkshire more that made up for that though.
Looking towards the West Front
The Heart of Yorkshire
We took a brief stroll around York itself and then headed for the River Ouse (that is pronounced ooze) for a cruise. It was an interesting hour with an entertaining commentary that gave a different perspective to the city of York.
Cruisin' the Ouse
We followed our cruise with a late lunch and then headed for the National Railway Museum. While it was an interesting place to visit, I was rather disappointed... As a museum, they have not done a very good job of telling the story of railways. It was like too many other railways museums: lots of exhibits with inadequate interpretation. I think the The Workshops Rail Museum in Queensland does a better job. The most interesting exhibits were the Royal Carriages and these were not easy to find and at the farthest point from the entrance.
The streamlined Duchess of Hamilton
A Shinkansen leading car
No comments:
Post a Comment