King's Manor - Historic Heart of the University of York
A majestic Grade I listed Tudor manor blending royal history with academic life in the heart of York’s city centre.
King's Manor is a Grade I listed Tudor and Stuart style building located in York city centre on Exhibition Square. Originally built between 1483 and 1502 as the abbot’s house of St Mary's Abbey, it later served as the seat of the Council of the North and a royal residence. Now part of the University of York, it houses departments such as Archaeology and Medieval Studies, blending rich historical legacy with academic life.
A brief summary to King's Manor - University of York
- Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EP, GB
- +441904328431
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore the Huntingdon Room to see one of the manor’s most historically significant interiors.
- Look above the main entrance for the historic coat of arms with the unique reversed letter 'n'.
- Visit during weekdays 8am-5pm or Saturdays 11am-5pm to experience the building when open.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Museum Gardens to see remnants of St Mary’s Abbey.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the York Park & Ride service from the Askham Bar or Grimston Bar sites to the city centre, then walk approximately 10 minutes to Exhibition Square where King's Manor is located. Bus services run frequently every 10-15 minutes, with a ticket price around £3.50 for a single journey.
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Train
Arrive at York Railway Station, which is about 1.5 km from King's Manor. From the station, a taxi ride takes around 5 minutes with fares approximately £6-£8. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through the city centre offers a scenic route to Exhibition Square.
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Car
Driving to King's Manor is possible but parking in York city centre is limited and often paid. The nearest public car parks include the Marygate Car Park or St George's Field Car Park, both about 5-10 minutes walk away. Expect parking fees of £2-£4 per hour and note that traffic restrictions apply in the city centre.
King's Manor - University of York 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 King's Manor - University of York
An Architectural Legacy Rooted in Medieval York
King's Manor stands as a remarkable example of Tudor and Stuart architecture, its origins tracing back to the late 15th century when it was constructed as the abbot’s house for the Benedictine abbey of St Mary's. The site likely hosted earlier buildings since the 11th century, but the surviving structures date primarily from 1483 to 1502. The manor’s historical importance grew when Henry VIII dissolved the abbey in 1539, repurposing the manor as the seat of the Council of the North, a powerful regional governing body. Over centuries, the building was expanded and embellished, including significant Jacobean additions and ornate doorways commissioned by Thomas Wentworth in the early 17th century.Royal Connections and Political Significance
King's Manor has hosted notable historical figures, including King James I, who stayed there in 1603 during his journey to claim the English throne. Henry VIII himself visited in 1541 with Queen Catherine Howard, prompting extensive repairs and upgrades to prepare for the royal visit. The manor also played a role during the Glorious Revolution of 1688 when it was seized by forces loyal to William of Orange. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, it served as the residence of York’s governor and was later leased to private tenants, reflecting its ongoing strategic and residential importance.Educational Transformation and University Role
In the 19th century, King's Manor became home to the Yorkshire School for the Blind, which occupied the site until 1958. The City of York acquired the building thereafter and leased it to the University of York in 1963. It became the base for the Institute of Advanced Architectural Studies from 1966, a leading centre for architectural conservation and education. The manor also housed the Centre for Medieval Studies, the Centre for Eighteenth Century Studies, and the Department of Archaeology, making it a vibrant academic hub. The building’s historic rooms, such as the Huntingdon Room and the Dining Room, have long served as spaces for scholarly meetings and social gatherings bridging town and gown.Architectural Conservation and Modern Usage
Extensive restoration and modernization were carried out in the 1960s under architects Feilden and Mawson, preserving the manor’s historic character while adapting it for contemporary academic use. The building’s U-shaped layout, historic coats of arms, and distinctive Jacobean doorways remain key architectural highlights. Despite its university function, King's Manor retains a strong sense of its medieval and early modern past, visible in its stonework and decorative details. It continues to be a focal point for York’s rich cultural heritage and academic research.Atmosphere and Surroundings in York’s City Centre
Situated on Exhibition Square, King's Manor occupies a prominent position in York’s historic core, close to other landmarks and the Museum Gardens where remnants of St Mary’s Abbey survive. The manor’s presence enriches the cityscape with a blend of medieval grandeur and scholarly vitality. Visitors can appreciate the building’s intricate stone carvings, historic coats of arms, and its role as a living monument to York’s layered history. The manor’s academic occupants maintain a dynamic cultural presence, hosting events and research that connect the past with the present.Future Prospects and Continuing Legacy
The University of York announced plans to vacate King's Manor by September 2025, with York St John University set to occupy the building from 2026. This transition marks a new chapter in the manor’s long history, ensuring its continued use as an educational and cultural landmark. The building’s Grade I listing guarantees protection of its architectural and historic significance, securing its place as a treasured heritage site in York’s city centre for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
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Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
City Wall Walk
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Explore the historic City Wall Walk in York for breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in one of England's most delightful cities.
York's Chocolate Story
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Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Bedern Hall
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Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Exhibition Square
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A historic and vibrant cultural square in York, blending art, architecture, and community in the city’s heart.
Invisible Cities - Walking Tours York
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Alternative walking tours of York led by local guides with lived experience of homelessness, blending history, personal stories, and social impact.
William Etty
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A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
Association Of Voluntary Guides Meeting Place
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Starting point for free, expert-led walking tours revealing York’s rich history and vibrant culture every day except Christmas.
York Art Gallery
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Discover centuries of British art and vibrant contemporary exhibitions in York’s historic and beautifully restored art gallery.
York City Sightseeing
0.1 km
Discover York’s 2,000 years of history aboard an open-top bus with live guides, hop-on hop-off freedom, and multilingual commentary.
York Theatre Royal
0.1 km
Discover York Theatre Royal, a historic gem blending medieval roots with Victorian Gothic and modernist design, alive with over 270 years of theatrical heritage.
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.
York Explore Library and Archive
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York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
Yorkshire Museum
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Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
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.
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.
Multangular Tower
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Explore York’s iconic ten-sided Roman tower blending ancient military might with medieval defense, nestled in serene Museum Gardens.
The Red House Antique Centre
0.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in York’s historic Red House, where over 60 dealers offer unique finds for every budget.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.2 km
Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Brew & Brownie
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Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Star Inn The City
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Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
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)
0.3 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.3 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
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Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
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.
Roots York
0.3 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Côte York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
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.
Los Moros
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Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
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Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Imaginarium
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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.
Snowhome
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Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Shared Earth
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
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Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Fairer World
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Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Paper Doll
0.4 km
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.
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.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
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.
Evil Eye
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Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
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.
Lendal Cellars
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Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
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
0.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Revolution York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
The Maltings
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A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
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.
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.
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
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.6 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.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.5 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
34.0 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.5 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.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
34.8 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 Key Club
34.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.0 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Architectural Shots
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
