Jobs in York | Pictures of York

York was once described by George VI as representing “the history of England ” on account of its significance throughout the ages at the heart of government, politics and religion which made it – until the 1800s – the most populated city in England after London . The York of today, however, is not quite so grand and has the feel of a more provincial town that sometimes gives the appearance that its sole purpose in life is to satisfy the hoard of tourists who flock to the city every year.

But it is these tourists coupled with the growing student population at the University that gives York its cosmopolitan and vibrant atmosphere which somehow successfully blends the city of old with the modern-look city that is attracting an increasing number of professionals to the area to live and work. The coming together of a wealth of history with a cosmopolitan life give York a character which is entirely its own.

Getting around York
You won't have much need for a car if you are heading into the city centre because most of it is now pedestrianised but, if you are working at one of the business parks on the outskirts then it will be your best option. York is well-served by the A19, A64 and A59 trunk roads that all head into the city. However, car parking can be problematical (and expensive) so your best bet may be to take advantage of one of the five Park & Ride schemes in operation.

Buses are operated by First York throughout the city in six fare zones and stop off at Rougier Street , just 200 yards from the train station which in turn runs direct services from Doncaster, Garforth, Leeds, Scarborugh, Thirsk and Darlington in addition to national mainline services.

Eating, drinking and shopping
It is said that York has as many pubs as days in the year – just my kind of place. Whether that is true or not is largely irrelevant but what is for certain is that York is home to some of the best pubs in the country – from traditional pubs that seem frozen in time from the medieval period such as the 1,000 year old Ye Old Starre Inn on Stonegate in the city centre to newly opened, fashionable alternatives aimed to appease a younger crowd, including O'Neil's and Weatherspoon's.

The main areas to go are along Huntington and Millington Roads, Fossgate, Micklegate and St Helen's Square – all in the city centre. And although York is not renowned for its late night nightlife, it does have a surprising number of nightclubs and live music venues, largely centered in and around Aberdeen Walk, Clifford Street , and Micklegate.

Eating out in York can be a bit of a problem, in that there are so many places to choose from. Whereas many towns and cities struggle to offer a sufficient choice of fine dining options, the reverse is true in York . With most pubs offering a good range of traditional pub grub – perfect for a Friday lunchtime - choices are arguably more plentiful for those who are prepared to spend that little bit more on their meal.

For the pick of the bunch, head along the Goodramgate and Swinegate area in the centre. For a good steak dinner try The Waterfront which is on – yes you've guessed it – the waterfront, or Kings Straith to be precise. Whereas BoBo Lobo is York's only Latino cafe bar and restaurant, with a lively atmosphere and good reputation (and easy on the wallet too).

York's shopping offers the best mix of modern and traditional options. Best-known are of course the Shambles and Stonegate. The Shambles – also known as the Snickelways - are a cluster of small winding streets, packed with small crafts-shops and other curiosity shops. And just around the corner is the Coppergate shopping complex which is home to a number of high street stores, such as Marks & Spencer, BHS, WHSmith, Browns of York, and Zavvi. Whereas Monk's Cross in the newest shopping centre in York, and home to all the leading brands and retailers, including Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, TopShop and Next.

Also nearby is the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, known for its wide selection of retailers and unusually low prices. With over 120 stores based there, shops include the likes of Dolce and Gabbana, Paul Smith and Armani.

But if you fancy being a tourist for the day or simply have a few hours to spate in between meetings, York Minster is worth a wander in anyone's book. Without sounding like a tourist guide, the Minster is unquestionably the most impressive example of a Gothic cathedral anywhere in the world – giving Canterbury a run for its money. The city's rich history almost oozes out from the stone-work and you get some feeling as to why Richard II was so keen to establish York as England's capital city. It's a great place to spend a few hours – as long as you can cope with the mass of happy-snappy tourists and school-trip parties. Alternatively, Jorvik Viking Centre, Clifford's Tower and the National Railway Museum are also worth a visit.

And for a 2,000 year old city, there is no shortage of cultural attractions to keep you occupied. Drama, live music, comedy and the arts can be found at York Theatre Royal, the Grand Opera House, and the National Centre for Early Music. Whilst classical music recitals and concerts are frequently held in the city's churches and in York Minster itself. And City Screen is the art-house cinema with a programme of independent and world cinema.

It is fair to say that York has a lot to offer on the sporting front, including fourteen sports and leisure centres, nine golf courses, rowing on the River Ouse and numerous health and fitness clubs. Not to mention its enviable position at the foot of the Yorkshire Dales National Park which opens up a number of outdoor pursuit's opportunities.

However, if you are more of a spectator than participant, York Racecourse and York City Football Club are a good alternative.

Main residential areas
As well as the traditional terraced and estate housing, York offers a range of more unusual options. For instance, you could opt to live within the historic city walls, either in period housing, or in an exclusive apartment development such as Emperor's Wharf, Westgate or Rowntree Wharf. Alternatively, you could choose to live in the leafy suburbs of Fulford or Walmgate Stray.

And if money is no object, then Dunnington, Escrick, Wheldrake, Murton, Riccall and Stillingfleet are known as the more affluent areas of the city.

Overall, house prices in York are on average 19 per cent lower than those of the South East and nearly 40 per cent lower than London.

One development to look out for is the Terry's Site. With a city centre that has remained relatively undisturbed for a number of centuries, you mostly have to go outside the city walls to find any new developments. The redevelopment of the old Terry's Chocolate Factory site just outside the centre will offer a number if apartments, penthouses and townhouses along with a number of café bars and restaurants on the same site.

If you're thinking of moving to the area, take a look at some of the current property available to buy or let in York.

Take a closer look
A picture is worth a thousand words. You can see some images from in and around York below.

Looking for local vacancies? See all current jobs in York or find out more information on the local area.