On December 19 we left Stirling, Scotland by train for York, England and for a third time stayed three nights in our favourite flat at
Emperor's Wharf.
In spite of the dreary weather and short days the town of York was bustling with last minute Christmas shoppers, tourists and locals alike.
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River view of our flat at Emperor's Wharf
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Christmas Market
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York Minster in the background
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The street where Guy Fawkes lived
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While we were on this street we spotted one of our favourite pubs,
Ye Olde Starre Inne and decided to stop for a pint and nibble.
The entrance is just to the left of the wooden archway bearing the pub's name that connects both sides of the street.
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Ye Olde Starre Inne
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Our main reason for returning to York was to tour
Castle Howard at Christmas time. We took bus #181 from the Station Avenue bus stop near the train station directly to Castle Howard. It took about one hour and cost £10 per person return.
The interior of this amazing home was decorated for Christmas...
...and the highlight for me was the giant tree in the main entrance.
Other rooms were also dressed up for the holiday season including the lady's bedroom - notice the elaborate head dress.
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Library
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Music Room
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Dining Room
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Sitting Room
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Hallway
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Ballroom
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Gingerbread replica of Castle Howard
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The chapel was especially impressive due to its detailed ceilings...
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Ceiling in the chapel entrance
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...murals, William Morris tapestries and stained glass windows.
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William Morris tapestries
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Even the exterior of Castle Howard was decorated for the season as shown below in the produce and plant market.
While the gardens of Castle Howard are open year round and the castle itself is open March through November, the Christmas season is a wonderful time to visit this remarkable home.
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