York Worcester Train

York is an historic walled city located in North Yorkshire. The city lies at the confluence of the River Ouse and River Foss and is in the Vale of York, a flat area of fertile land bordered by the Pennines, the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Wolds. York is dominated by its cathedral, York Minster, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. The present building was begun in about 1230 and completed in 1472. In addition to York Minster the city has many historic attractions, cultural and sporting events, which makes it a very popular visitor destination.

In the 19th century the city became a hub of the national railway network in the United Kingdom and a centre for the manufacture of confectionary, although modern York's economy is largely based on the service sector and tourism.

The Theatre Royal, which was established in 1744, produces an annual pantomime which attracts loyal audiences from around the country to see its veteran star, Berwick Kaler. The Grand Opera House and Joseph Rowntree Theatre also offer a variety of productions. The city is also home to the Riding Lights Theatre Company, which as well as operating a busy national touring department, also operates a busy youth theatre and educational departments.

Located in the county of Worcestershire, the city of Worcester can trace its history back to Roman times where it started life as a Roman settlement. The city stands on the banks of the River Severn and the Worcester - Birmingham Canal where some moorings are available. Distances to Worcester from:- York - 228 miles, 110 locks, 115 hours cruising time. London - 174 miles, 223 locks, 140 hours cruising time. Birmingham - 32.5 miles, 61 locks, 34 hours cruising time Liverpool - 182 miles, 168 locks, 122 hours cruising time.

Worcester has three main parks: Cripplegate Park, Gheluvelt Park, which was opened as a memorial to commemorate the Worcestershire Regiment's 2nd Battalion after their part in the Battle of Gheluvelt during World War I, and Fort Royal Park which is one of the battle sites of the English Civil War. In addition to the parks the city has a large open area known as Pitchcroft which is located to the north of the city centre on the east bank of the River Severn.

There are also two large woodlands in the city, Perry Wood, at twelve hectares, and Nunnery Wood, covering twenty-one hectares. Perry Wood is often said to be the place where Oliver Cromwell met and made a pact with the devil.