Private Tour of York Medieval City Walls
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Private Tour of York Medieval City Walls

Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore York with an award-winning, qualified historian guide! We'll travel through 2,000 years of history as we walk along Roman roads, medieval walls and royal thoroughfares.

This tour incorporates every inch of the most complete set of historical city walls anywhere in the UK. Find out why and how these fortifications were built - and hear the stories of those who dared to try to breach them..!

Available options

Private Walking Tour of York's Museum Gardens

What's included

An entertaining tour led by an expert local guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

We will walk the most complete set of Medieval city walls in the UK.

2

Get sweeping views of what was once the largest railway station in the world.

3

We will walk through the official entrance to York, in the footsteps of Kings and Queens from centuries past. Hear the stories about who once used the gate...and whose heads were once posted on top!

4

The last of the city gateways to be opened - find out why Queen Victoria refused to come see it!

5

Stan atop a medieval prison and find out why this was reserved for the worst of the worst. We'll also overlook the former site of the city's public executions.

6

Stand on the site of a former training ground and learn how York functioned at times of war - from 1066 to World War II.

7

Walk across the beautiful River Ouse and hear how the water that flowed here changed the shape of the city.

8
Stop 8

Walk through all the remains of the ice nightly York Castle and hear the tales of heartbreak and bloodshed that took place here.

9

Looking over the grounds of what was once mighty York Prison, you'll hear the story of the UK's most notorious criminal and the unlikely way he was caught here.

10

We will tread through what was once the King's Fishpool and hear the stories of those who tried to breach it.

11

See the scars left behind from the residents of York who rose up in rebellion against a usurper king.

12

Stand in the only original medieval barbican in the country and learn about the English Civil War that almost brought it down.

13

Unlike any other gatehouse in the city, the Red Tower was also the site of a gruesome murder. Find out why the perpetrators were never punished.

14

See how York's residence disposed of rubbish over the centuries, and why you might want to be careful where you step!

15

Stand on the site of a Jewish settlement that was lost to time, then unexpectedly uncovered nearly 700 years later.

16

The tallest of York's defences and once used as a prison and site of public announcements in the Medieval era. Find out who was kept here and why the portcullis got stuck.

17

Find out how the Mayor of London who once lived here left his mark on the city.

18

A tower named after Robin Hood? Find out why and also hear about the lengths Yorks residents went through to protect their city through the centuries.

19
Stop 19

Enjoy sweeping views of the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.

20

View York's loveliest beer garden at the back of a charming historic pub.

21

We will stand inside one of York's great city gates and find out which surprising confection got its' start right here.

22

Stand in the ruins of a once great building and learn about the man who once controlled it.

23

Stroll through the beautiful and tranquil York Museum Gardens, surrounding by reminders of long-gone eras.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Next to the statue of William Etty

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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