Illuminated York

With Autumn equinox having just taken place the nights are starting to close in earlier and we’ll soon be going to work in the dark and coming home in the dark – those of us who aren’t working from home anyway.

Autumn and winter are a great time to venture into York of an evening. The walls, churches, bars and restaurants are all lit up, soon the winter lights will be out, welcoming people into the City via the Wall Gates.

Strolling along the river offers some fantastic views. Starting off at Rowntree park the Millennium Bridge is always illuminated with some bright neon lights. Walking towards the centre there are a range Victorian street lamps (all electric, the only remaining Gas lights are outside the Minster).

Walking along Skeldergate, if you cut through down onto Queen’s Staith you get to admire the buildings opposite lit up at night.

Crossing over Lendal Bridge you then get to admire the brighter, more colourful lights of the bars and restaurants on the opposite side of the River Ouse. Some of these outdoor lights have recently been supplied by local York-based company SignLights.co.uk to local businesses.

Step back onto Lendal Bridge and take a walk through the City Centre. The City Walls are painted in light at the start of Lendal Bridge, The Shambles is lit up and now is probably the ebst time to see it lit up at night, without the hoards of tourists. St Williams College and the Minster are worth a visit too.