The Ice Age, quilt making and reminders of highwayman Dick Turpin can all be found in York’s museums and galleries this year. York Art Gallery opens its doors following a refurbishment project and will feature works by Monet and Rembrandt in its "Reflections" exhibition of British and European art (March 19-June 19).

"Through the Needle's Eye" examines 250 years of quilt making with some historic examples (March 19-June 5), open daily admission free.

York Castle Museum marks the 300th anniversary of the building of the Debtor’s Prison and the birth of its most infamous prisoner, Dick Turpin. Talks and family activities allow visitors a chance to discover more about the prison’s history (starting March 19), open daily, adults £6.

Ice sheets nearly 2km thick and hippopotamuses wallowing in the mud were once features of the Yorkshire countryside. In "The Ice Age" (May 28-Dec. 31) the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens explores how the last two million years has shaped the landscape, wildlife and evolution of the region. Open daily, £4.

For information on all museums, tel: 01904 687687. York is a medieval walled city 210 miles north of London. Website: www.york.trust.museum