The Roman Column at Minster Yard, York
Explore York’s Roman Column, a towering relic of ancient Roman power nestled beside the majestic York Minster.
Standing proudly in Minster Yard, York, the Roman Column is a striking 22-foot-high relic from the city's Roman past. This historic column is believed to be part of the ancient Roman fortress's principia, or headquarters, and a symbol of York’s rich heritage. Located near York Minster, it invites visitors to reflect on the grandeur of Roman Britain and the city's layered history.
A brief summary to Roman Column
- 11 Minster Yard, York, YO1 7HH, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quiet atmosphere and unobstructed views.
- Bring a camera to capture the impressive height of the column against the backdrop of York Minster.
- Combine your visit with a tour of York Minster and other nearby historic sites for a full day of exploration.
- Look for guided tours that include the Roman Column for detailed historical insights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Walking
From York Minster, walk into Minster Yard where the Roman Column is prominently located on the right. The walk takes about 5 minutes on flat, paved terrain and is wheelchair accessible.
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Bus
Take local bus services to the York city center stop near York Minster. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to Minster Yard. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on the route and ticket type.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in York city center and can drop you directly at Minster Yard. Typical taxi rides from York railway station take 10–15 minutes and cost approximately £7–£12.
Roman Column 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 Roman Column
A Monument from Roman York's Glory
The Roman Column in York is a remarkable surviving fragment of the ancient Roman fortress that once dominated this area. Towering at approximately 22 feet, the column is thought to have been part of the principia, the central administrative building of the fortress, where military and civic leaders conducted official business. Its presence today offers a tangible link to York’s origins as Eboracum, a vital Roman city and military base.Historical Context and Significance
York’s Roman Column is not only a physical remnant but also a symbol of the city's long and complex history. The fortress it belonged to was extensive, and the column’s size hints at the grandeur of the original structure. It is reputed that Emperor Constantine was declared emperor in York around AD 306, adding to the column’s historical mystique. The column itself has undergone restoration and may have been re-erected inverted, yet it remains a powerful emblem of Roman engineering and imperial presence in Britain.Setting Amidst York’s Architectural Heritage
Situated in Minster Yard, the Roman Column stands close to York Minster, one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. This proximity places the column in a rich architectural and cultural context, blending Roman antiquity with medieval splendor. The surrounding area is steeped in history, with cobbled streets and historic buildings that invite exploration and reflection on York’s evolution through the centuries.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Roman Column can enjoy a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, especially in the early morning before the crowds arrive. The site offers excellent photo opportunities with the column’s impressive height and the majestic backdrop of York Minster. Informational plaques provide insights into the column’s origins and significance, enhancing the educational value of the visit. The column is accessible year-round and free to view, making it a convenient stop for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.Preservation and Cultural Importance
The Roman Column is a Grade II listed structure, recognized for its historical and architectural importance. Efforts to preserve it ensure that future generations can appreciate this link to York’s Roman past. As part of York’s heritage landscape, it contributes to the city’s identity and serves as a focal point for understanding the ancient roots beneath the modern urban fabric.Complementary Attractions Nearby
While visiting the Roman Column, travelers can also explore nearby landmarks such as York Minster, the Treasurer’s House, and the Museum Gardens. These sites collectively offer a comprehensive glimpse into York’s layered history, from Roman times through the medieval period and beyond. Guided tours often include the Roman Column as a highlight, providing deeper context and storytelling that enrich the visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
William Etty
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Explore the artistic legacy of William Etty in York’s Exhibition Square, where history and culture come alive in a stunning sculpture.
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.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
King's Manor - University of York
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A majestic Grade I listed Tudor manor blending royal history with academic life in the heart of York’s city centre.
York Art Gallery
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Explore York Art Gallery: A cultural gem showcasing a vibrant mix of historical and contemporary art in the heart of York.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Antiques Centre York
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York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
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.
St Michael Le Belfrey
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York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
York Minster
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Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
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.
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.
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.
York Armoury
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Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
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Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
The Bloody Tour of York
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York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
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.
Snickleway Inn
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Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
Minster Yard
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Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
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.
Stonegate
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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
Fat Hippo York
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Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
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Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Côte York
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Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
La Vecchia Scuola
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
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.
Guy Fawkes Inn
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Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Lucia Restaurant
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Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Los Moros
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Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Wildwood
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Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
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Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
The Botanist York
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A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
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A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
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Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Bab Tooma York
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Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Las Iguanas - York
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Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SOCTOPUS
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Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
The Cat Gallery
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York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Shared Earth
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Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
York Minster Shop
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Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Rookscroft
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Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
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.
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
0.2 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
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.
Sterling Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Imaginarium
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Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Evil Eye
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Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pivní York
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Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
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.
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
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Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Pitcher & Piano York
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Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
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
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Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
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York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Kuda
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York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
0.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
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)
1.2 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
34.2 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
35.2 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
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
