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Offered languages
- English
Step off the beaten path into the beating heart of York’s rich, rebellious past! This highly rated walking tour isn’t your average stroll—it’s an adventure through 6,000 years of real history, gripping stories and your chance to discover all you can on your visit.
We’ll explore the city’s mighty medieval defences and how they evolved to keep out everyone from invading armies to enticing tourists. Marvel at York’s architectural wonders, from Roman stonework to the craftsmanship of medieval masons whose skills shaped the skyline we see today.
Discover the powerful guilds that once ruled the city’s economy, their grand halls, and the “cash crops” that fuelled their rise. Constantine the Great to Oliver Cromwell, Robert the Bruce to kings, queens, history’s biggest names walked these streets, and now, so will you.
Wander along city walls and down ancient streets, as we bust myths and reveal the truth behind the past.
This is York unleashed: gritty, glorious, and unforgettable.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Starts at the Statue of Constantine, (PLEASE ignore the sat nav address For Cars only you need to walk and head to the statue)South entrance of York Minster. The booked time is departure time. Arrive 10 minutes early. Guides don't answer phones once tours begun. Late comer not refunded.
The end point is 6 minutes walk from the start of the tour. The location gives access, to Jorvik Viking Centre, Castle museum and Cliffords tour, the river walk and 2 minutes from the Shambles. please note end point may vary.
Itinerary
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York (Pass by)
Our guide will show you what makes York so unique, the Medieval walls and Gateways, the Minster, the ancient Shambles, Lantern towers, rivers and castle. See the grave of Dick Turpin and walk through 2000 years of the cities heritage follow in the footsteps of ancient tribes, Romans, Kings and Queens and some of histories most notorious. Our guides can also take you around the museums of your choice for an additional fee.
Admission ticket free -
1York Minster
The largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, York Minster took 252 years too build. There are Minster guides inside, tours last an hour.
20 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2Shambles
The street of the Butchers, our guide will take to the shrine of St Margaret Clitheroe, and exploring with to uncover the secrets of one of Yorks oldest streets.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3St Cuthbert's Church
We take a look at this medieval church with its rich history, built partially from Roman brick work it also features Saxon and Norman architecture. Its most unique feature is its 'Devils door' we will unravel the truth behind the myth.
6 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4York City Walls
We take in a section of the medieval walls where you'll see the cities Roman defences, danish earthwork and discover its medieval past, sieges, and Victorian alterations. We will also pass by the old Jewish quarter of the city.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Statue of Constantine the Great
Learn about the origins of York, its visiting emperors and delve into the story of Constantine the Great, his effect on Christianity and York.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6The Black Swan
As we enter the old Hungate Parish, you'll discover the Black Swan, its famous residents and links to the battle of Quebec. Near by is a building whose architecture reflects the Irish heritage of the area as well as having a chance to spot one of Yorks famous Black Cats.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Merchant Taylors' Hall
On the city walls you'll see the Merchant Taylors, discover how guilds became the economic centre of Cities like York, the Taylors significance to the city and its role today.
4 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8Monk Bar
One of 6 gates in York you'll discover its role in the city defences, the legend of the Wild men of York as well as our Bars more gruesome uses.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
As we walk along this Saxon street you'll discover the Dutch House, it's significance to architectural changes after the Great fire of London and the emergence of Insurance policies.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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 a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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