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Offered languages
- English
Discover the imperial capital that shaped an empire.
Long before it was York, this city was Eboracum—a crucial northern powerhouse of the Roman Empire where emperors ruled and stayed. On this immersive walking tour, you’ll leave the modern streets behind to trace the monumental footprint of the Roman legions.
Led by an expert historical guide, we strip away the myths to look at the real history, engineering, and daily lives of the people who built ancient York. From high-status citizens to the soldiers guarding the frontier, discover how Rome stamped its authority on the British landscape.
Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers looking for an authentic, deep-dive exploration of York’s classical past.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Go to the main gates of the Museum Gardens, where Museum St. meets Lendal, and look for the off-duty Roman Legionary in a red tunic.
At the statue of Constantine the Great, next to the York Minster.
Itinerary
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1Museum Gardens
A stroll around the exquisite Museum Gardens to take in the ruins of St. Mary's Abbey, the Hospitium, the arboreal garden, and soak up the wonderful atmosphere in front of the Yorkshire Museum.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
We start our tour at the Multangular Tower, the largest remaining piece of Roman architecture remaining from the ancient city of Eboracum, before taking in a portion of the Museum Garden, passing the Yorkshire Museum, and making our way to the late Roman "Anglian Tower".
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3York City Walls
Tracing the footsteps of the Roman guards, we walk along the two northern portions of the medieval city walls*, which are built directly on top of the original Roman walls and gatehouses. Stunning views of York Minster ensue. *The city walls are occasionally closed due to time, bad weather, or maintenance. Original York Walks and its various tours bear no responsibility for access to the city walls, and are always just as disappointed as you when they are inaccessible.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Treasurer's House (Pass by)
Making our way past the Treasurer's House, we take a short break from our regular history to tell the tale of, arguably, the most credible ghost story from York. Trust me, it is relevant to Romans.
Admission ticket free -
York Minster (Pass by)
A short first stop at the York Minster as we follow the old Roman road and take in some bonus history: the Great East End Window.
Admission ticket free -
4
Here we visit an original Roman column from the principia and learn about the nearby forum and basilica.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Situated proudly by the Minster sits the statue of Constantine the Great. In his shadow I shall explain just how many emperors made York their home, and even the seat of the entire Roman empire!
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
At this point in the tour I hand over to the custodians of the Roman Bath Museum, where you will get to discover the original soldier's bathhouse of the fortress.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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