Petergate House: Historic Georgian Residence and York Oratory Presbytery
Historic Georgian townhouse and York Oratory presbytery blending centuries of architectural and ecclesiastical heritage in the city centre.
Petergate House, located at 11 High Petergate in York, is a Grade II* listed early 18th-century townhouse with significant historical associations. Originally built shortly after 1723 on the site of earlier structures, it features a stuccoed façade, mansard roof, and period architectural details. Now serving as the presbytery for the York Oratory, it blends centuries of York’s ecclesiastical and residential heritage in the city centre.
A brief summary to Petergate House
- York Oratory 11, High Petergate, York, YO1 7EN, GB
- +441904624767
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during quieter weekday mornings to appreciate the architectural details without crowds.
- Combine your visit with nearby York historic sites for a comprehensive cultural experience.
- Look for the distinctive four-centred arch doorway that dates back to the 16th or 17th century.
- Explore the exterior features like the mansard roof and wrought-iron balconies for photography.
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
Several local bus routes serve York city centre with stops within a 10-minute walk of Petergate House. Travel times from York railway station are approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 GBP. Service frequency varies but is generally every 10-20 minutes during the day.
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Train
York railway station is about 1.5 km from Petergate House, reachable by a 20-minute walk through flat, paved streets. Taxis are available outside the station for a 5-minute ride costing approximately £5-£8 GBP.
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Walking
From central York locations, Petergate House is accessible on foot via mostly flat, cobbled streets typical of the historic centre. Walking times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is generally manageable for most visitors.
Petergate House 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 Petergate House
An Architectural Gem of Early 18th-Century York
Petergate House stands as a distinguished example of early Georgian architecture in York’s historic city centre. Constructed shortly after 1723, it replaced earlier buildings on the site and incorporates a 16th or 17th-century doorway with a four-centred arch, hinting at the layered history beneath its stuccoed exterior. The house features a seven-bay front across three storeys with attics beneath a late 19th-century slate mansard roof punctuated by shallow gabled dormer windows. The façade is lined to resemble ashlar stonework, with string courses marking the storeys and a central entrance framed by engaged Doric columns supporting an entablature, reflecting classical design influences of the period.Historical Ownership and Evolution
The site of Petergate House has a rich lineage, having belonged to notable figures such as Sir Edward Stanhope of Grimston in the 17th century and later Henry Swinburne, a renowned ecclesiastical lawyer. It was acquired by Sir Thomas Herbert in 1665 and remained in his family until sold to William Turner of Stainsby in 1723, after which the current house was likely built. The building underwent significant alterations in the 19th century, including the addition of a two-storey semicircular projection at the rear and a mansard roof replacement, which enhanced its architectural complexity and residential functionality.Role as York Oratory Presbytery
Today, Petergate House serves as the presbytery for the Church of St Wilfrid on Duncombe Place, known as the York Oratory. This ecclesiastical function connects the house to York’s vibrant religious heritage. The interior and exterior reflect adaptations made to accommodate clerical residence while preserving the building’s historic character. The rear elevation, constructed in red-brown brick with various bonds, includes a central projection housing the main staircase, with windows set under three-centred arches enclosing brick tympana, adding to the building’s architectural interest.Setting and Surroundings in York’s Historic Core
Situated on High Petergate, one of York’s principal medieval streets, the house is part of a rich urban tapestry that includes other historic buildings, shops, and places of worship. Its location places it within walking distance of York’s famous landmarks and the city’s vibrant cultural life. The blend of historic architecture and contemporary use exemplifies York’s commitment to preserving its heritage while maintaining living, functional spaces.Architectural Details and Materials
The front elevation’s stucco finish mimics ashlar masonry, a common Georgian technique to convey refinement. The timber doorcase and eaves cornice add subtle decorative elements, while the mansard roof with brick stacks reflects Victorian-era modifications. The rear’s Flemish bond brickwork and wrought-iron balconies on the semicircular projection contribute to the building’s visual richness. These details collectively illustrate the evolution of architectural styles and residential needs over three centuries.Significance and Preservation Status
Petergate House is designated as a Grade II* listed building, marking it as particularly important and of more than special interest. This status ensures its protection and highlights its architectural and historic value within the national heritage framework. Its continued use as a presbytery demonstrates adaptive reuse that respects the building’s past while supporting present-day community functions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.2 km
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
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Discover the beauty of Dame Judi Dench Walk in York, a tranquil path celebrating the iconic actress amidst stunning scenery and rich history.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
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 Theatre Royal
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Discover York Theatre Royal, a historic gem blending medieval roots with Victorian Gothic and modernist design, alive with over 270 years of theatrical heritage.
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.
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 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.
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.
Exhibition Square
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A bustling cultural hub in York’s historic heart, Exhibition Square connects art, history, and vibrant city life.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mannion & Co
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A cosy York bistro famed for artisan brunch, deli boards, and a hidden courtyard in the city’s historic 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.
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)
0.2 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
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 Botanist York
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Côte York
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Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
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.
Lucia Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
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.
Las Iguanas - York
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Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
La Vecchia Scuola
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Minster Shop
0.1 km
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.
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.
Rookscroft
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Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Snowhome
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Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
The Cat Gallery
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
0.6 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)
1.4 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
34.6 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
34.9 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
34.9 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
35.0 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
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
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
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
