York , United Kingdom

York Walls Private Walking Tour

Active

(146 reviews)

1h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your own personalized tour guide, taking you on a spectacular trip round the world famous city walls! You are provided a unique guided tour experience - you will be picked up at your hotel, or in town at a place of your choosing, at a time to suit you. You will be taken around the walls, no big groups to tag along with or time schedules to keep, and even arrange coffee/food along the way at some of York's very best food and drink establishments.

Available options

90min - 2hr tour

90min -2hr tour: a tour of the walls, including a variety of stopping off points and a chance to focus on the areas / history that interest you, including Roman, Dark Age, Viking, Medieval, Tudor etc.

2.5hr - 3hr tour

This includes a more extensive tour round the walls taking in some of the hidden areas often missed by tourists

What's included

Tour escort/host

Hotel pickup and drop-off (by foot, city centre hotels only)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The walls of York have a rich and bloodthirsty history stretching back nearly 2000 years. Whilst free to walk on, visitors can often leave the city having missed out on discovering the secrets of the walls, and the city they have protected for so long. These personalised tours provide a totally unique, bespoke and entertaining history of the walls and the city they have protected for so long. Each tour is designed just for you, so please get in touch with the local provider if you have any special interests or needs.

Refreshments can also be arranged along the way with some excellent coffee shops, pubs and restaurants to check out (own expense), and in addition will also tour other parts of the city too (Castle, Minster, Shambles etc) should you require. As local tour guides passionate about the city, they can also handle any restaurant bookings or just general advice about other things to do in York during your stay.

As these are bespoke tours, please contact the local provider as soon as you can in advance so your booking can be guaranteed and the guides have enough time to prepare the tour for your adequately.

Please note that the walls close at dusk, and some parts are occasionally closed if there are icy conditions. Whilst the walls are well designed for tourists, wheelchair access is limited however please contact the local provider if you require disabled access as alternative routes which walk beside the walls, not on them, can be arranged.

Should you require an evening tour, please contact the local provider to discuss your requirements, often the guides focus more on the other areas of York as well as the walls to provide a more atmospheric experience.

Please note that on this tour it will be only yourselves and your tour guide, for a truly personalized experience of the city.

One of the finest roman structures in England - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

The most picturesque place in York, often missed by visitors, with a world famous history - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

Now part of the University, this was once the house of the Abbot of St Marys

An entrance to the city has stood here for 2000 years - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

Stop 6

A world heritage site - the only place on Earth to see Roman, viking & medieval defences all in one place - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

Stop 7

Site of the most famous ghost story in the world!

Stop 8

A recreation of genuine medieval life. Note entrance is not included as part of the tour, however we can show you the best parts for free!

Stop 9

The most famous medieval street in the world, but it has a very dark history!

Stop 10

Site of the only viking houses to be found anywhere in the world!

Stop 11

A huge motte and bailey castle that once controlled Northern England - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

Stop 12

A huge motte and bailey castle that once controlled Northern England - we bring it back to life including 3D reconstructions!

the most famous gateway in England, mentioned by Shakespeare and still used today when the Queen enters the city

Stop 14 Pass by

the most famous gateway in England, mentioned by Shakespeare and still used today when the Queen enters the city

What's not included

Does not include entry to any attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

51 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.7

95 reviews

5★

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please inform the local provider of the preferred pick up point at the time of booking.

Children must be accompanied by an adult/senior

A minimum of 2 adults/seniors per booking is required (single adult is available but at a surcharge at our discretion)

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Outside York Minster near the entrance to the gift shop is the Roman Column. Its easy to find and right in the centre of town, a great place to meet!

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• The Walls are occasionally closed in places due to emergency maintenance, or icy conditions. Should this occur on your booking we will adjust the tour accordingly to avoid this area
• The local provider takes no responsibility for any injury incurred whilst walking on the walls
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements (2 adults). In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

About York

York is a historic city in northern England, known for its well-preserved Roman and Viking heritage. With its medieval walls, stunning Gothic cathedral, and charming cobbled streets, York offers a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.

Top Attractions

York Minster

York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years.

Historical 2-3 hours £14

The Shambles

The Shambles is a historic street in York that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe and is known for its narrow, cobbled lanes and overhanging timber-framed buildings.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free

York Castle Museum

The York Castle Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of York from the Victorian era to the present day. It is housed in a former prison and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays.

Museum 2-3 hours £15

Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum that brings the Viking Age to life through a range of interactive exhibits and displays. It is built on the site of a major Viking settlement and features a ride that takes visitors on a journey through Viking York.

Historical 1-2 hours £16.50

Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours £8.50

National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is a museum that tells the story of Britain's railway history. It features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a collection of historic locomotives and carriages.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Yorkshire Pudding

A traditional British dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, which is baked until crispy and golden. It is often served with roast beef and gravy.

Main Course Contains gluten and eggs

Yorkshire Curry

A unique fusion of British and Indian cuisine, featuring a curry made with local ingredients such as Yorkshire lamb or pork.

Main Course May contain gluten, dairy, and nuts

Fat Rascal

A traditional Yorkshire scone made with currants, citrus peel, and spices. It is often served with clotted cream and jam.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs

Yorkshire Wontons

A modern twist on a traditional Chinese dish, featuring wontons filled with local ingredients such as Yorkshire cheese or pork.

Appetizer May contain gluten, dairy, and pork

Popular Activities

Hiking in the North York Moors Cycling along the River Ouse Kayaking on the River Ouse Spa treatments in Harrogate Picnicking in the Museum Gardens Strolling along the River Ouse Visiting York Minster Exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit York, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the weather is generally pleasant.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

York is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas
• Avoid isolated areas at night
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Leeds Bradford Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
Manchester Airport • 80 miles (129 km)

By train

York Railway Station

By bus

York Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in York is comprehensive, with frequent services to all parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The City Centre Bootham Micklegate The Groves Haxby

Day trips

Castle Howard

15 miles (24 km) • Half day

Castle Howard is a stunning stately home and gardens located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful architecture, extensive gardens, and fascinating history. The estate is home to a range of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a number of walking trails.

The North York Moors

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

The North York Moors is a beautiful national park located just outside of York. It is known for its stunning landscapes, extensive walking trails, and fascinating wildlife. The park is home to a range of attractions, including a number of historic sites, as well as a number of charming villages and towns.

Whitby

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

Whitby is a charming coastal town located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fascinating literary connections. The town is home to a range of attractions, including a number of museums, a historic abbey, and a number of charming shops and cafes.

Festivals

York Festival of Food and Drink • September York Christmas Market • December York Early Music Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit York Minster early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's historic streets and alleys, such as The Shambles and Stonegate, for a unique and charming experience
Take a guided tour of the city's medieval walls and underground chambers for a fascinating insight into its history
Visit the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history and see a range of interactive exhibits and displays
Attend a performance at the York Theatre Royal or the York Early Music Festival for a unique cultural experience