InfoBritain

Jorvik

York Gates

To the British people of the eighth and ninth centuries the idea of a visitors centre dedicated to the Vikings, would in present day terms be like a visitors centre dedicated to Al Qaeda. The Vikings attacked the holiest of places in ways guaranteed to cause maximum outrage. Not only did they attack, they completely destroyed their targets. Now in York, or Jorvik as it was in the original Norse, there is a visitors centre. It seems everyone is brought home in the end; but in visiting Jorvik, it's worth remembering the terror that came before the assimilation.

Jorvik was created in York by the York Archeological Trust, on the site of explorations it carried out between 1976 and 1981. There is a reconstruction of Viking-age streets, and hundreds of items discovered at the site are on display. Throughout the year there are special events, giving people the chance to have a go at Viking crafts or cookery, and to try some archeology for themselves. There are also guest speakers on specialist subjects, re enactments and drill sessions for children wanting to have a go at being a Viking. Schools can book activities, which all have the National Curriculum in mind.

Jorvik has commentaries available in English, French, German, Dutch, Spanish and Japanese.

Opening Times: The centre is open all year,during the Summer 10am to 5 pm and during the Winter 10am to 4pm, seven days a week. Opening times vary during the school Christmas holidays. The centre is closed 24th-26th December. Opening hours for 31st December are 10am -2pm, and January 1st 10am- 4pm.

Directions: Jorvik is situated in the Coopergate shopping area close to the centre of York. The centre of York is pedestrian friendly, so if you are driving in, it is best to stop at the Park and Rides situated on the main roads leading into the city. There is a Park and Ride on the A64 which brings traffic in from both north, south and west. There are similar facilities on the A19, A1079 and the A166. Jorvik is a fifteen minute walk from York railway station, and a ten minute walk from York's coach drop-off point. Click here for an interactive map centred on Jorvik.

Access: for disabled visitors there is a wheelchair-adapted lift, toilet facilities and time capsule. The time capsule has a hearing loop, and there is a Braille guide to the artefact gallery. As the attraction is underground only one wheelchair at a time can be accommodated due to fire regulations. Ring to prearrange a time.

Contact: 01904 543403

web: jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk