York, England

York continues to have the title of being the lovely region of Northern England's capital. The city is alive with entertaining activities and attractions that reveal the many layers of its extensive past.

York hosts merry Christmas markets just like Edinburgh does. Most of the city's streets are taken up by the famous and prestigious St. Nicholas Fair. Along Parliament Street and St. Sampson's Square are a large market with 100 wooden chalets, an outdoor ice rink, carol singers, a giant lighted tree, and other holiday festivities. Grab a hot chocolate and explore the ancient Shambles, where you'll be taken back in time to the 13th century. It's a charming, narrow street surrounded by timber-frame medieval buildings, brimming with interesting shops, and it has a Yuletide Village with local arts and crafts. Once you've had your fill of holiday pleasure, visit the Gothic York Minster, the town's prized possession. To enjoy its hallowed walls, you won't need to squeeze through crowds.