The York Food, Drink & Leisure Guide 2005/6

Leisure

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Castle Howard

York
YO60 7DA
T: 01653 648333
E:
W: www.castlehoward.co.uk

There's almost too much to see and do at Castle Howard. There are breathtaking views, wandering peacocks, tree lined paths, elegant statues on beautifully manicured lawns, an amazing fountain (Atlas surrounded by mermen, I think) and some incredibly peaceful spaces you can freely roam. And all of this is before you hit the magnificent 18th Century stately home. Inside you are bowled over by the huge, huge collection of statues, paintings, furniture and artefacts, each with an interesting story regaled by a guide. Actually, forget the treasures, these guides are the real draw of Castle Howard. Occupying almost every room they'll answer most questions and tell you the stuff you really want to know; which beds are still slept in, what they think of the contemporary artist who painted the famous dome and just how long it took to put out fires. With a regular programme of events, fireworks, adventure playground and exhibitions, Castle Howard is ideal for all the family and really does need a few visits to take it all in.

Courtneys at Waterworld

Leisure Park at Monks Cross
Kathryn Avenue
York
YO32 9XX
T: 01904 642162
E:
W: www.courtneysyork.co.uk

As one of the main shopping and leisure parks on the outskirts of York, Monks Cross is extremely well served by Courtneys Gym. Hosting around fifty classes a week there is a decent sized, air-conditioned and well-lit studio with a sprung floor, sound system and, unusually, a small stage so even those at the back can follow the instructor. Pop next door and you’ll find the main gym containing around 100 pieces of resistance and cardiovascular equipment. That’s running, rowing and weight lifting machines to the less sporty amongst you. All of these are open to non-members as well as members - the latter getting good deals and the chance to book for classes. There’s a strong emphasis on personal training and, whereas many gyms only offer an individual session upon joining, Courtneys encourage their members to have a review once a month. Friendly and personal, the gym also has a function room available for conferences, weddings and parties.

Friargate Theatre

Lower Friargate
York
YO1 9SL
T: 01904 613000
E:
W: www.ridinglights.org

Unpretentious yet committed to original and accessible theatre, the Riding Lights theatre company is a highly respected national touring group. They opened Friargate Theatre in 2000 and since then rave reviews and word of mouth has built a growing following in York and the rest of the country. Riding Lights conceive and write much of their own work as well as welcoming other touring companies, professional groups and local amateur groups to perform at Friargate. Also staging literary events the most popular is the Poetry Double Series, showcasing well know contemporary poets including a past Poet Laureate. You can expect a relaxed atmosphere within the theatre; there is no stage and the space fits 100 people at the maximum, which creates an intimate and involving experience. Tickets are very decently priced and there really is a diverse programme. You can catch plays before Riding Lights take them on tour as well as musicals, such as the Dick Turpin production they performed recently, and classics like The Alchemist.

Stone Soup