Original York Walks: Walking History Tour Private Experience

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Unearth 2,000 years of York’s history on the ultimate bespoke walking tour!

From Roman roots to medieval majesty, you’ll discover the iconic Roman Column and the breathtaking York Minster. Stroll the historic City Walls, explore the serene Museum Gardens, and stand before the ancient Multangular Tower.

Marvel at the Georgian elegance of the Mansion House, step into the hidden medieval world of Barley Hall, and wander the famous, timber-framed Shambles. Finally, look up at the commanding Clifford’s Tower.

Expertly tailored, deeply engaging, and perfectly paced—this is the definitive York experience. Book your unforgettable journey today!

What's Included

Expert Local Guide
Entry to indoor paid attractions not included
Private transportation

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Meet by the Roman Column opposite the York Minster, in Minster Yard, YO1 7HH.

OR
Meeting point
Roman column in Minster Yard

Meet by Roman Column opposite the statue of Constantine the Great, by the Minster.

End point
Clifford's Tower, York

Tour finishes at Clifford's Tower, near the Castle Museum.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    We start our tour outside the wonderful York Minster, where you will get a quick potted history of York's eras before moving. Here we visit an original Roman column from the principia and learn about the nearby forum and basilica.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • York Minster (Pass by)

    We get up and close to the world famous York Minster, where we will hear about the early Anglo-Saxon origins of the cathedral, and also a surprising link to the Vikings. You will also hear all about the great windows.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    York City Walls

    An optional but popular route that traces the footsteps of ancient guards on the medieval city walls.* The city walls are built on top of the old Roman fortress, which the Vikings would have reused. Provides stunning views of the north side of the Minster. *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.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Museum 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
  • 4

    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".

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A brief stop as we pass the Lord Mayor of York's residence.

    Admission ticket free
  • Barley Hall (Pass by)

    A brief stop by Barley Hall; a beautifully restored medieval townhouse for a wealthy silversmith.

    Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Welcome to the enchanting mediaeval street known as the Shambles. The oldest and best preserved of all the original Shambles in England.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Hear about one of Neil's favourite hidden gems that was ultimately a clever Anglo-Scandinavian marketing ploy, and, provided the church is open (depends on the time and day), see a 1000 year old Viking grave cover.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Clifford's Tower (Pass by)

    We end our tour with tales of Vikings and Normans, and learn exactly what started and ended the 200-year rule of the Vikings. Hear about Ragnar Lothbrok, Ivar the Boneless, William the Conqueror's Norman Conquest and more.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Original York Walks

Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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