The Shambles, York, England, UK

City tour of York, England

York City of the Vikings and the Romans

A Roman and Viking city where the history is etched into the narrow and ancient streets. Situated on the meandering banks of the River Ourse, York is one of the jewels in the crown of English tourism and a must-see destination on any tour of Britain. First established as a Roman stronghold in 71 AD, the city would take the name Jorvik 800 years later when the 'Great Heathen Army' of the Vikings sacked and occupied the city. It would remain an important military and cultural centre throughout a century of Viking occupation. During medieval times, York remained a stronghold city and a fortified defence against foreign invaders.

A walking tour of York, England

The City Walls

Our journey begins on York's City Walls, most complete example of medieval city defenses still standing in England today (find the location in Google Maps here). Originally constructed by The Romans to provide a base for the Empire's Ninth Legion, these stone fortifications provide shelter and protection for all those who lived in 'Eboracum'. That was the name the Romans gave to a town of growing military and cultural significance which would later come to be known as York. Today, the majority of the walls are accessible to the public and are free to walk upon, with restored pathways and safety railings. If time allows, walking the full circuit provides a comprehensive tour around the historic city centre and offers an insightful panorama of York's rich past.

City Walls, York, England
York Minster, York, Northern England

York Minster

There are few better examples of Gothic architecture in all of England than York Minster. The construction we see today was started in the 1220s and only reached completion shortly after 1470, making this a unique and impressive portfolio of architecture and design spanning 250 years. The vastness of the scale on the one hand, combined with the minuteness of the detail on the other, combine to create a masterpiece that attracts up to 700,000 visitors each year. Atop 275 steps of narrow and spralling stone, you will find The Central Tower — the highest point in all of York (it's large enough to fit the Leaning Tower of Pisa inside). Other notable attractions include The Chapter House, Undercroft, Treasury and Crypt. To get the most out of your visit, book a guided tour in advance...

Museum & Gardens

The York Museum Gardens are situated on the grounds of St. Mary's Abbey, a once-powerful Benedictine abbey ruined during the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII. The gardens and the museum within them are steeped in history, offering a peaceful retreat with a backdrop of hallowed antquity. The museum itself dates back to 1830 and it holds an impressive collection of artefacts that tell the story of York and its surroundings from prehistoric times to the medieval period. Highlights include the Cawood sword, the York Helmet, and extensive collections of Roman and Viking treasures. Explore the museum, the gardens or both depending on your time availability and interests. Book museum tickets here...

York Museum & Gardens, Britain
Bettys Tea Rooms, York

Bettys Tea Rooms

It is hard to imagine a more quintessentially British experience than having afternoon tea in Bettys of York. Advanced booking is essential in this treasured institution which has been a landmark on St. Helen's Square since it opened in 1936. Afternoon tea is a treasured English tradition in which a pot of tea is served as an accompaniment to an assortment of sweet and savoury treats, presented on a tiered stand. Once you have chosen your blend of tea, you will be invited to choose your preferred sandwiches, scones, pastries and cakes. Few things could be more British than an hour spent indulging in afternoon tea.

Holy Trinity Church

Walk along Davygate past York Information Centre & Gift Shop (a good spot to find souvenirs), before turning left onto mpson's Sq, which follows on to Church Street and then Goodramgate, where you will find Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate — one of York's most historic and well-preserved medieval churches. It has undergone various modifications over the centuries but, even today as an active place of worship, it retains much of its original structure and charm. Nestled away from the bustling streets of York, the church and its surroundings offer a peaceful retreat. Its position, hidden behind shops and accessed through one of York's famous 'snickelways' (a narrow passageway), enhances its medieval charm and mystery.

Holy Trinity Church, York, Yorkshire
The Shambles, York, UK

The Shambles

The Shambles is one of England's most iconic streets, famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and its atmospheric charm. Often cited as an inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, this narrow passageway offers a curious glimpse into a time long forgotten. The name "Shambles" originates from the Anglo-Saxon word "Shamel" meaning "bench" or "stall". Historically, The Shambles was lined with butcher shops, which displayed their goods on these benches outside. The meat hooks and wide windowsills from this era are still visible on some of the buildings you will see.

JORVIK Viking Centre

JORVIK Viking Centre invites you to travel back to the year 975 AD and discover the world of the Viking invaders. Over 30 years, 20 million tourists and visitors have immersed themselves in the Centre's interactive experience where you can walk the Viking streets, enter their dwellings, hear the sounds and smell the smells. Jorvik houses over 800 viking artefacts including tools, textiles, coins, and personal items which offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people who lived here over a thousand years ago. Book your visit here...

JORVIK Viking Centre, York
Magdalen College and Tower, York, UK

Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower was built after the Vikings had left Britain. Following the invasion by William the Conqueror, it was built in 1068 and would serve as a centre for York's defense and administration over the centuries. The tower is notable for its unusual four-lobed design, rare in England, which provides a unique appearance and structural advantage. As a work of military architecture, this design was far ahead of its time, and the unusual shaping is one of the main reasons for the tower's enduring fascination. Clifford's Tower is the site of one of the most tragic events in York's history, the massacre of its Jewish community in 1190. The Jewish residents of York, seeking protection from a mob, took refuge in the tower which was then set on fire, leading to the loss of many lives. This event is a significant part of the tower's history and is commemorated today.

Rowntree Park

If the weather is nice, take a stroll along the banks of the River Ourse to Rowntree Park. Opened in 1921, Rowntree Park was gifted to the city of York by the Rowntree family, famous in Britain for their chocolate manufacturing in the city. It was offered as a memorial to the Rowntree Company employees who lost their lives during World War I. The park spans over 30 acres, featuring extensive green lawns, mature trees and beautiful flower gardens. When you're ready for a rest, find a bench near the pond and reflect on the rich and varied history you have learned about today.

Rowntree Park, York

Walking tour of York City Map

Visit York On one of our Britain & Ireland Tours

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