Within its ancient walls, York is teeming with both history and charm. Explore its Gothic architecture at York Minster (one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe) or get to know locals while wandering through The Shambles (historically, and somewhat disturbingly, called The Great Flesh Shambles, apparently for its butcher shops?). If you can get past the meat hooks, though, it looks an awful lot like Diagon Alley — you might even spot The Shop That Must Not Be Named.
Head to Stonegate to find more independent shops and cafes charmingly jumbled together and begging to be explored. And if you can make it past the world's most adorable bouncer (OK, it’s a giant teddy bear) at Stonegate Teddy Bears, you’ll find an equally adorable tea room . . . Bringing your own stuffed companion is optional.