Ep 3. Yorkshire

In the third episode of the third season of Curious Traveler, we embark on a journey to Yorkshire, England, a region known for its rolling hills, historic cities, and picturesque countryside.

Our host, Christine van Blokland, begins by exploring the city of York, one of England's most well-preserved medieval cities. Here, she visits York Minster, the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe, and learns about the history of the religious site, which dates back to the 7th century. She also takes a stroll through the Shambles, a narrow medieval street lined with timber-framed buildings, and visits the Yorkshire Museum, which showcases the area's rich Roman and Viking heritage.

Next, Christine travels to the picturesque village of Hutton-le-Hole, located in the North York Moors National Park. Here, she meets with a local farmer who explains the importance of sheep farming to the region's economy, as well as the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in modern times. She also learns about the traditional craft of dry stone walling, which involves constructing walls without the use of mortar, and tries her hand at building one herself.

Moving on, Christine heads to Castle Howard, a stunning stately home set in over 1,000 acres of parkland. Here, she learns about the estate's history and architecture, as well as its connections to the filming of the popular TV series Brideshead Revisited. She also takes a tour of the gardens, which are home to numerous rare and exotic plant species, and learns about the challenges faced by the team responsible for maintaining them.

Finally, Christine ends her journey in the city of Leeds, a vibrant and diverse metropolis that is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. Here, she visits the Leeds Art Gallery, which houses a collection of over 2,000 paintings and sculptures, including works by renowned artists such as Francis Bacon and Henry Moore. She also takes a stroll through the trendy district of Chapel Allerton, which is home to a range of independent shops, cafes and bars.

Throughout her journey, Christine discovers the rich history, culture and natural beauty of Yorkshire, and meets a diverse range of locals who are proud to call this unique region home. From medieval cities to rolling countryside, there's something for everyone in this captivating corner of England.