St Michael le Belfrey: York’s Largest Tudor Parish Church
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
St Michael le Belfrey is York’s largest pre-Reformation parish church, rebuilt between 1525 and 1537 during Henry VIII’s reign. Known for its close proximity to York Minster, it serves as a vibrant Anglican parish with deep historical roots dating back to the 8th century. The church is famous as the baptism site of Guy Fawkes and features a Victorian replica lantern tower, modern worship elements, and a rich evangelical heritage.
A brief summary to St Michael Le Belfrey
- The De Grey Rooms, St Leonard's Pl, York, YO1 7HB, GB
- +441904624190
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
- Friday 10 am-2:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday morning to experience the vibrant congregation and lively worship services.
- Look for the carved mouse on the Robert “Mousey” Thompson lectern, a unique artisan signature.
- Explore the church’s Tudor architectural details, especially the Victorian replica lantern tower.
- Reflect on the historical connection to Guy Fawkes, baptized here in 1570.
- Check the church’s website or contact ahead for service times, as weekday hours vary.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services to the city center, alighting near St Leonard's Place; buses run frequently with journeys from central stations taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect a short walk on paved streets to the church. Single fares cost around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, a 20-minute walk along well-signposted city streets leads to St Michael le Belfrey. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through York’s historic core.
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Taxi
Taxis from York Railway Station to St Michael le Belfrey take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis provide convenient door-to-door access, suitable for travelers with luggage or mobility needs.
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Walking
If staying in York’s city center, walking to the church is easy and pleasant, taking 5-15 minutes depending on your location. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
St Michael Le Belfrey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Michael Le Belfrey
A Historic Jewel in York’s Religious Landscape
St Michael le Belfrey stands as the only church in York built entirely in the 16th century, completed between 1525 and 1537 under the master mason John Forman. It was constructed during the tumultuous period of King Henry VIII’s break with Rome, yet uniquely it was built as a new parish church rather than dissolved. The church’s name, "le Belfrey," references either the adjacent Minster bell tower or an earlier bell tower on the site, which has hosted a church since the 8th century. Serving the local community rather than the Minster’s wider cathedral functions, it remains York’s largest parish church, historically catering to merchants, craftsmen, and guild members from nearby streets like Stonegate.Architectural Features and Symbolism
The church’s architecture reflects Tudor craftsmanship with notable features including a Victorian replica lantern tower that once guided parishioners by firelight in the absence of street lamps. Inside, the pillars are adorned with angels holding shields emblazoned with Henry VIII’s crown and symbols of Saints Peter and Paul, linking the church to its royal and religious heritage. The pews date from the Victorian era, and beneath the floor lies a dark marble slab believed to be a communion table gifted by York Minster in 1617. The west front was restored in the 19th century after adjoining houses were removed, preserving the church’s striking façade.Faith, Worship, and Community Life
St Michael le Belfrey has long been a hub of vibrant worship, blending traditional Anglican liturgy with contemporary music and community engagement. The church houses a modern pulpit and a lectern crafted by Robert “Mousey” Thompson, renowned for his carved mouse signature. The congregation, which can number up to 800 on Sundays, spans all ages and reflects a dynamic evangelical spirit that has shaped York’s religious life for centuries. Notably, William Richardson, vicar from 1771 to 1821, is remembered for his powerful preaching, social care initiatives, and founding York’s Sunday School movement.Historical Connections and Notable Figures
One of the church’s most famous historical associations is with Guy Fawkes, the conspirator in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Baptized here in 1570, Fawkes’ legacy is commemorated locally, including the nearby Guy Fawkes Pub. The church’s history also includes periods of growth and renewal, notably under Revd. David Watson in the 1970s and 80s, who revitalized the congregation and modernized worship practices while maintaining the church’s evangelical foundations.Preservation and Modern Use
Despite threats of closure and repurposing in the 1960s, St Michael le Belfrey remains a thriving place of worship and community gathering. Its blend of historic architecture and modern adaptations, including a stage area for musicians, reflects a living church that honors its past while embracing contemporary faith expressions. The stained glass windows, some altered to accommodate larger congregations in the 18th century, continue to add color and light to the worship space.Visiting Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to St Michael le Belfrey encounter a church rich in history and spiritual energy, set in the shadow of the majestic York Minster yet distinctive in its parish role. The atmosphere combines reverence with lively worship, and the church’s location on St Leonard's Place places it within easy reach of York’s historic center. Whether admiring its Tudor stonework, reflecting on its historical figures, or joining in contemporary services, St Michael le Belfrey offers a profound connection to York’s religious heritage and community life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Bootham Bar
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Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Sundial Column
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An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Anglian Tower
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Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
St. Leonard's Hospital
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Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Ghost Hunt of York
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Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Medieval Walls
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Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
11 Shambles
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Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The York Cat Trail
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Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Shambles Market
0.3 km
Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
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Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Ghost Trail Of York
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Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Mountain Goat Tours - York
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Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
The Antiques Centre York
0.1 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
Constantine the Great
0.1 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
York Minster
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
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Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
York Armoury
0.1 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Coffee yard
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Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Barley Hall
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Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
York Oratory
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A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of York’s Catholic community, rich in history, art, and enduring faith.
Hole In The Wall
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Experience the charm of Hole In The Wall in York, a historic pub offering local ales, traditional British dishes, and a warm atmosphere.
The Deathly Dark Tours
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Discover York’s haunted streets with a perfect mix of spooky tales and dark humor on The Deathly Dark Tours ghost walk.
Petergate House
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Explore Petergate House, a stunning historical landmark in York, where rich heritage meets architectural beauty, perfect for every tourist's journey.
Stonegate
0.1 km
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Guy Fawkes Inn
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Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
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A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Côte York
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Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Fat Hippo York
0.1 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
The Botanist York
0.1 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Los Moros
0.1 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Lucia Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Turtle Bay York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Wildwood
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Minster Shop
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Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
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Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Rookscroft
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Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
0.1 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
0.1 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
The Imaginarium
0.2 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
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A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
Paper Doll
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Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
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Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
National Trust Gift Shop
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Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Cello by Collectables
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Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Starre Inne
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Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
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Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Eagle & Child
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Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
The Punch Bowl
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A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
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York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
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Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Vudu Lounge
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
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Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Royal Oak
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Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pivní York
0.3 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Revolution York
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Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
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York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Kuda
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.7 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.0 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.1 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
