Daytripper: Jorvik, York

Play with the Vikings, and look sharp

What is it?

What is it?

Jorvik is a journey into the heart of 10th-century York. State-of-the-art time- capsules take visitors back to Jorvik at 5.30pm on 25 October, AD975, in its Viking heyday.

Where is it?

Jorvik is just off Piccadilly and next to St Mary's Church. Excavated under the site of a sweet factory, it opened in 1984. Refitted and extended Jorvik was re-opened in 2001.

Something for the children?

This summer (from 1 July - 31 August) the Fearsome Craftsmen section of Jorvik focuses on "Arms and Armour" and children will be invited to take part in a competition to design a helmet, an activity included in the admission price. Collect entry forms from the café. Winners receive a Jorvik goody bag.

And for grown-ups?

Millions of visitors have passed through the doors of Jorvik, including world leaders and heads of state. Everything is based on archaeological evidence unearthed from mud during the extensive Coppergate excavations and is depicted in scrupulous detail. The more adventurous can engage with trained Viking Interactives who are working away in the Fearsome Craftsmen exhibition and learn about leather-working, metal-work and weaving.

I'm hungry

There is no restaurant at Jorvik but the café sells hot and cold drinks (prices from £1) and cakes (from £1.75) plus the usual confectionery. You can sit outside in Coppergate Square with your coffee.

Can we buy a souvenir?

The gift shop sells a unique range of items, from Jorvik pens at 60p to amber jewellery influenced by the Viking's celtic neighbours, with prices starting at £10. Also available are Viking board games, pottery and swords of a very authentic appearance.

How do we get there?

Jorvik is in the centre of York. Whether approaching from the A64 or A19 it is best to use the park-and-ride facilities. For those who wish to travel by train, York is served by Great North Eastern Railways, Virgin Cross Country and North Western Trains. For details visit www.nationalrail.co.uk. For coach enquiries telephone National Express on 0121 625 1122 or visit www.gobycoach.com. On arrival follow the signposts from the bus and railway stations (it takes approximately 10 minutes to reach Jorvik by foot).

Will there be queues?

Yes, due to the popularity of the attraction, at peak times there can be queues. Jorvik suggests booking in advance by calling the reservations department on 01904 543402/3 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm). Tel: 01904 643211; email enquiries@vikingjorvik .com; www.vikingjorvik .com. Admission: Adults, £7.20; children, £5.10 (under-fives are free); seniors/students, £6.10; family of four, £21.95; family of five, £26.50. From April to October Jorvik opens at 10am, with last admission at 5pm. For the rest of the year last admission is at 4pm.

Disabled access

Because of its underground location Jorvik can have only one wheelchair in the building at any one time. Wheelchair users can pre-book a visit (see contact details). An accessible Time Capsule, lavatory and lift are available. A hearing loop and written commentary are available on request.