Not Simply Red

St Helen's Square, named after the church just behind the pianist, is a popular spot for street musicians or buskers. Busking is encouraged in York, but you have to apply for permission and abide by certain rules.

In the background is Betty's of Harrogate, tea rooms so famous that people queue in the cold waiting for a place!

Keep on …

Rebuilt in stone in 13th century, Clifford's Tower is the most prominent of York's ancient fortifications. Follow the link for a potted history. The Castle Museum, just to the right, is wonderful and features, among many reconstructions, a complete Victorian Street, shops and all. 

St William's College detail

Detail of St Williams College, (1461) College Street, just behind York Minster. A very nice venue for weddings and conferences.

Permanent and temporary closure

The library is closed for refurbishment but the church has had its day, at least as a place of worship. The stone ruin looks good against the more recent brick. Behind these two buildings is Museum Gardens which is more park than garden, and a lovely spot for summer lunchtimes.

Gates of golden splendour

These fabulous gates from Euston Station, London, are now housed in York's National Railway Museum.  Wonderful workmanship, saved from the scrap heap.

The Emperor's New Clothes

Constantine sits outside of York Minster in all weathers, but doesn't feel a thing. Did he really feel anything about his new faith? He was declared emperor of Rome while in York, but had battles to fight before he secured his throne.

The debate over the genuineness of his conversion to Christianity still rages. What is sure is that his mother, Helen, was a devout follower of Jesus Christ. One of York's churches is dedicated to her, and gives its name to the square where it is situated.

The St Helen's that we know best, however, is in London, right next to the Gherkin and the Lloyds building.

Shining … imperishable red brick

The missing words in the title are and apparently, because nothing lasts for ever, and this building is only 111 years old. Originally the York Dispensary, it now houses a firm of solicitors and looks over  to yesterday's Red House.  The detail is impressive: even PATIENTS' ENTRANCE is carved in stone. York Minster is 200 yards to the left.