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White Rose York Tours

Home of York's finest free tour – Daily at 11am and 3pm

Step into History in the Capital of the North

Join us every day at 11am (and 3pm from april to october), under the tree opposite the main entrance of york minster, close to bennett’s tea rooms. just look for our sign and the guide in the blue tee-shirt..

Advance booking for our tours is not necessary, however we will happily accept bookings if you want to guarantee a place on the tour. Please contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone or text on 07792 207679 if you would like to book your place on a tour. We will hold any pre-booked places until the tour start time.

“The best walking tour I have ever experienced”

That’s according to one of the many excellent reviews our guests have left us on Tripadvisor and other review sites. In our first six months we went from being a brand new company to being the highest rated historical walking tour company in York, and second highest rated tour of all. And we did it by emphasising quality over quantity. Unlike some free walking tour companies, we don’t cram guests onto the tour and herd them around like cattle behind students reciting a script. Our guides are historians and history enthusiasts, and we try to keep our groups small enough that everyone feels like they have had a personal experience, and we take a leisurely pace because we believe York is a city to be savoured, not hurried.

Stepping through the streets of York is like taking a tour through all of England’s history. The Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Normans all remade the city to their own purposes. The Tudors and the Stuarts made themselves welcome here. The Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War left their mark. For two thousand years, York has been at the heart of the nation’s affairs, and our self-employed guides will bring that history to life as they lead you through lush parks and narrow lanes, past grand churches and palaces and ruined castles and abbeys and along the historic city walls. Come with us on our walking tour, and you will understand why they call this city the Capital of the North.

What’s On The Free Tour?

On our free tour of York you will see and hear the history of one of the most fascinating cities in Britain or anywhere else in the world, in the company of one of our expert guides. Our free tour includes:

• York Minster and the Liberty of St Peter
• City Walls and Gatehouses
• St Mary’s Abbey and the Museum Gardens
• The Shambles
• York Castle
• Roman and Viking Invasions
• Catholic Saints and Martyrs
• English Kings and Queens
• Dick Turpin and the truth about the Moonlight Ride

The tour commences every morning (year round) at 11am and every afternoon from April to October at 3pm. All our tours start outside the West Entrance of York Minster (the end with the two towers), under the tree on the wide pavement opposite the groups entrance and close to Bennett’s Tea Rooms . Just look for our sign, or for the guides in our distinctive blue “White Rose York” tee-shirts. Our friendly and helpful guides are there to help get you registered on the tour and answer any other questions you may have.

There is no need to book in advance, however if you would like to let us know you are coming so we can keep an eye out for you and provide you with a warm welcome, please feel free to use the form on our contact us page, letting us know which tour you would like to join and the number in your party. We would love to hear from you.

How It All Works

The Free Tour movement is the fastest growing sector of the tourist industry. All across Europe, and now all across the world, free tours are springing up in every major tourist city providing a great deal for tourists and tour guides alike. Our guides are self-employed and self-motivated, they provide a tour that mixes in-depth historical knowledge and story-telling with an entertainment style. And because the tour is free, and the guides work for tips only, it means that they ensure that you get the best and most entertaining tour possible.

Our guides will never pressure you to tip, because we believe that you understand the value of the service they provide you. We believe that money should be given freely, in proportion to the value of the tour and the budget of the traveler. And that in the end you will see that you have had great value for money, whether you gave a little or a lot.

Our tours run every single day of the year (except Christmas and Boxing Day), come rain or shine, at 11am from outside the historic York Minster, and also at 3pm April to October. No need to book*, just turn up around 10 to 15 minutes before tour time and look for our sign, or our guides who you can tell from the blue tee-shirts with the White Rose York logo on the front. Speak to any of them, they will be glad to help you get registered on the tour, or answer any other questions you may have.

(* Because we try to keep tours to a reasonable size, private advance bookings are required for groups of more than 8 persons. Please phone or email using the details on the contact page.)

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York’s Original & Most Popular

Free Walking Tour

The State Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II

As a mark of respect for the State Funeral of our late Queen all tours are suspended on Monday 19th September 2022

The Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York (AVG) offer daily free 2-hour walking tours to visitors from all over the world.

We have been offering complimentary guided tours around York since 1951.

Our team of 80+ local expert guides take great pleasure in showcasing our beautiful city, and we look forward to welcoming you on one of our regular twice-daily tours.

Tours begin at 10.30am & 1.15pm and run every day except Christmas Day.

Our tours are free; there is no need to offer a tip.

PRE-BOOKING IS RECOMMENDED

Joining Our Tours

Our daily tours begin at 10.30am & 1.15pm

For the enjoyment and safety of our visitors, tour numbers are limited to 30 visitors per tour and so pre-booking is recommended.

BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE

Our complimentary tours are intended for individuals, couples and small groups of family/friends, and tickets are limited to a maximum of 6 people per booking. Our tours are NOT available for commercial tour groups – other commercial tour guide services can be found via the VisitYork website.

Organised bonafide educational tour groups can book in advance using the Group Booking Form.

Wheelchair users are very welcome but please check with your guide on duty about the route as there are some areas especially on the City Walls where access may be difficult or impossible. Guides will be as flexible as possible about accommodating you.

There are two guides on duty for each of our twice-daily tours, and we typically split the full group into two smaller tours. Please try to arrive 5 minutes before the start of your tour, so our guides have time to greet you and arrange the tour groups.

Please note: We reserve the right to cancel the tour should circumstances, in the judgement of the guides on duty, be such that it is not safe to undertake it. We also reserve the right to refuse any individual who cannot or will not observe the safety precautions.

Tour Start Point

All our tours depart from outside York City Art Gallery in Exhibition Square and last approximately 2 hours.

Meet your guide between the William Etty statue, and Kings Manor Entrance Gates in front of the Art Gallery, look out for our Tour Times ‘A’ Board which is the starting point and located near the entrance to Kings Manor.

York Art Gallery, Exhibition Square

Tour End Point The final part of the tour takes us to York’s oldest street, the Shambles .

Our daily tours are absolutely FREE and, unlike some other advertised tours, there’s really no need for a tip at the end!

Our daily tours are intended for individuals, couples and small groups of family/friends only., organised tour groups should not just turn up to our daily tours. we offer tours designed for larger educational groups, (not commercial operators) so please book ahead using our group booking form on our contact us page or use the button below., are you interested in becoming a guide with the avg.

The Association of Voluntary Guides (AVG) has been offering free tours of the City of York for over 70 years and to ensure we can continue to offer this service well into the future, we are always interested in welcoming new members to join our team of Guides.

or use the QR code with your mobile device

A few of our Tour Highlights

Multangular Tower

Museum Gardens

St. Mary’s Abbey

The Kings Manor

Bootham Bar

The Bar Walls

Treasurer’s House

York Minster

St. William’s College

Holy Trinity Goodramgate

The Shambles

have experienced our tours

of touring the City of York

have participated in our tours

leading our tours 364 days a year

Some of our most Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book?

Tour numbers are limited per guide, so we recommend that tours be booked in advance at this link Book Online .  Once you have your ticket (there’s no need to print it out, a mobile version is fine), please arrive at the meeting point at Exhibition Square at least 5 minutes before the designated start time.

If you were not able to pre-book, you may turn at the meeting point up at the start of a tour and, subject to availability, we will try to accommodate you on a tour.

Where does the tour start?

All tours depart from outside York City Art Gallery in  Exhibition Square .

Simply meet your guide by our ‘tour times’ board next to the  William Etty statue and the fountains outside the Art Gallery.

Don’t forget your face mask.

Where does the tour end?

The final part of the tour takes us to York’s oldest street, the Shambles. (During Covid-19 restrictions the end point will vary depending on circumstances on the day, your guide will advise).

How much does a standard tour cost?

The tours are FREE and entirely without charge, the volunteer’s reward is showing the beauty of the City to as many people as possible.

Some of our most recent feedback

Really enjoyed our tour with Richard – he was really knowledgeable, threw in a couple of ghost stories and recommended a coffee shop for afterwards. A great couple of hours spent. —  Michelle Payne , 12 April 2024

Our guide Jim was humorous and seemed to love what he does. One thing that could be improved was that it was very hard to hear him, both because he turned his head side to side (I think in order to look at the group) and when his head was turned away, we could not hear; and also he spoke too quickly for these non-Scottish ears to understand! Still, we learned a lot and enjoyed it. Thanks. —  Allison , 27th April 2024

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Kevin who gave us an EXCELLENT tour of this amazing city today. His enthusiasm and knowledge were delightful and have whet our appetite for further reading and discovering of all this rich history. THANKYOU so much for your generous time. We had a wonderful afternoon! —  Sue Bartho and Andre Kreicers Sydney, Australia , 22nd April 2024

The  TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence designation recognizes attractions that consistently earn great TripAdvisor reviews from travellers. The Certificate of Excellence accounts for the quality, quantity and recency of reviews submitted by travellers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period.

Our Tours Start Here

Tour start address

York City Art Gallery Exhibition Square York  YO1 7EW

Where to meet

Meet your tour guide outside City Art Gallery next to the William Etty statue.

5 of the Best Walking Tours in York

Famous for its huge Gothic cathedral and medieval walls, the city of York in northeast England is best explored on foot – with a wide choice of guided walking tours available.

(Photo: The Wizard of York)

Achingly pretty and intriguingly historic in equal measure, York is one of the UK’s most popular mini-break destinations, with enough to see and do to keep visitors entertained for days on end. What’s more, the compact centre is eminently walkable, with plenty of cafes, public squares and green spaces on hand for respite, too. Below are 5 of the best organised walking tours of the city currently on offer.

The Wizard of York 

Join award-winning entertainer and magician The Wizard of York on a spell-binding hour of fun featuring magic, comedy and a dash of York’s fascinating history. During the tour, you and your small group will be tasked with helping  find several magical creatures hidden among some of the city’s various nooks and crannies as you traverse the York streets. Suitable for kids aged around 5 and upwards, there are no spooky ghosts or scary stories – just fun and laughter for all the family. Tours can also be upgraded to include Wizard Wand Kits, so children can practice their own spells and learn new tricks once they get home. Private tours are also available. From £9 per person.

Book at Wizardwalkofyork

City Highlights Small Group Walking Tour

(Photo: Yorktour / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

York concentrates 2,000 years of history into a remarkably small area. This 90-minute tour begins at Bootham Bar, the city’s northern entrance, from which every period of York’s development is visible. You’ll then enter the tranquil, green oasis of the Museum Gardens – a Victorian botanic garden which contains an 18 th Century observatory, the remains of a Roman fortress and the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. From here it’s a short walk to the Minster – the largest medieval gothic cathedral in the country – situated among a warren of ancient Viking streets. Hear tales of Viking invasion while delving into the maze of secret passages known as ‘Snickelways’, before emerging into the Shambles, York’s best-known cobbled street, to bring your tour to an end. From £18 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Hidden Gems Foodie Tour of York

York has a vibrant culinary scene and visitors can discover it for themselves on this immersive 3-hour walking tour. Starting at the statue of the Roman Emperor Constantine, which can be found directly outside York Minster, you’ll be taken on a fun-packed foodie adventure around the city, stopping at five different independent food outlets to sample an eclectic mix of artisan fare whilst meeting the chefs and food producers behind the scenes. During the tour, your guide will offer fascinating stories and facts about the city’s food heritage. From £60 per person.

Book at Viator

The Dark Chronicles of York Guided Walking Tour

(Photo: Britannia Routes Tours Ltd / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

As with almost every city, York has a dark underbelly. This 1.5-hour tour offers fearless visitors the chance to embark on a journey through York’s terrifying secrets, while getting to see some of its most notable landmarks including Shambles Market and York Minster in a spooky new light. Over the course of the tour, your guide will regale you with grim stories and the untold truths of a long-forgotten age. Learn what happened to the city’s most notorious criminals, as well as the often grisly fate of the innocent, and what really takes place in the shadows of York’s mysterious alleyways and streets. From £12 per person.

Private Guided Walking Tour

For a more intimate and exclusive experience, this private 2-hour walking tour allows you and your select group of family or friends to see York’s most important landmarks and places of interest in the company of an expert guide all to yourselves. Explore the labyrinth of medieval streets and ‘snickelways’, discover a Roman fortress and ruined abbey within a Victorian botanic garden, and wander through the Shambles – one of England’s most unique streets. All the while your guide will be on hand with interesting snippets and ready and waiting to answer all of your questions about this remarkable city. From £90 per group (max 8 people).

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YORK UNCOVERED WALKING TOUR

History walked differently.

Discover the stories beneath the stone on a guided walk through the historic streets of York. Our walking tour provides the perfect introduction to the long and diverse history of the beautiful and iconic city. We take you through the medieval city centre, highlighting unheard stories and voices from the past. Our guides are all post-graduate students researching history in York and are dedicated to sharing the deep and vibrant history of the city they love.

Tours run once a month - book your space now!

Private bookings available for small and large groups - book here !

11 Fascinating Walking Tours in York 2023

Walking Tours in York – Because York is such a compact city and much of the city streets are pedestrianised a walking tour is an absolutely perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening. 

You can really get up close and personal on York’s lesser known snickets and alleyways and learn so many interesting facts with a fun and entertaining guide.

1. The Wizard Walk of York

Click here to book tickets for The Wizard Walk of York.

The Magic Hatter is bringing his award-winning entertainment to the streets, with his Wizard Walk of York.

“Magic, mystery, comedy and excitement plus a dash of York’s history…the ingredients for a truly unforgettable experience for all the family!”

Public tours are running on selected evenings, starting from the bottom of The Shambles opposite The Golden Fleece. Pre-booking required.  Private tours are available for birthdays, school groups, brownies, cubs and more. A wonderfully whimsical tour that wizard fans will go Potty for!

Wizard Wand Kits are also available, subject to availability. A handcrafted wand and instructions for seven tricks that young witches and wizards can learn at home. Plus a FREE printable certificate!  To check days, times and book online visit the wizarding website at www.wizardwalkofyork.com.

** Note from Nikki: If you have younger kids with you, there is no better tour for you.  We have seen The Magic Hatter many, many times when the kids were little and wholeheartedly recommend him. ** 

2. Mad Alice and The Bloody Tour of York

Click here to book tickets for The Bloody Tour of York.

Join Mad Alice on The Bloody Tour of York as you wander “the streets and snickleways to historic landmarks.  With 2000 years of history, York has fascinating stories of the macabre and the extraordinary.  Uncover the tales of the Romans, the Viking invasion and the Plague amongst tales of torture and execution.

The history of the city is brought to life in this award-winning  90 minute tour which is suitable for gruesome little ones.  Learn about the city’s most famous son Guy Fawkes and what really drove him to want to blow up the houses of Parliament in 1605.  Dick Turpin, the famous Highwayman was hanged at York in 1739 but he was caught by sheer luck.  Margaret Clitherow, martyr and Saint lived amongst the entrailed and blood-soaked Shambles in the 1580’s.”

Accessibility: Suitable for all ages and fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The walk takes a steady pace around the city. If there are any mobility issues, please talk to Mad Alice at the beginning of the tour who will tailor the tour to be more comfortable.  Accompanying carers are invited onto the tour free of charge.

Tour Start Location

St. Williams College, College Street, YO1 7JF

When is the Tour?

January 18:00 (Saturdays only) February/March – 18:00 April to October – 18:00 & 20:00 November – 18:00 December – 18:00 (Saturdays only)

How long does the Tour last?

How much is the tour.

£12 adults and £6 children (under 5’s are free)

Click here to book tickets for The Bloody Tour of York .

3. Sceptred Isle Chronicles – History walking tour of York

Click here to book tickets for Sceptred Isle Chronicles

Join us on a relaxed journey through history, myths, legends and architecture. Discover how the medieval city thrived and developed to become the city we all love today. Our guides deliver a fun and unique take on York mixing history, sightseeing and exploration to offer a unique insight into York, passing the largest medieval gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, old cobbled streets, Guild Halls, scenic views of our rivers, devils doors and so much more.

We cover all the important landmarks of York and go off the beaten track to places you may not think of going. We are all stories in the end, write yours with us!

Read more about Sceptred Isle Chronicles – History walking tour of York.

4. York Walls Private Walking Tour

Book tickets for York Walls Private Walking Tour

Uncover the medieval marvels of historic York on a bespoke walking tour with a private guide. Learn about York’s rich history as you walk around the centuries-old walls, pose for photos with a backdrop of the city or visit the wall museums (not included). Your private tour is yours to customize as you please, so you could also pay a visit to York Castle, stroll down the atmospheric The Shambles or take a peek inside the magnificent York Minster.

Bespoke walking tour of York’s city walls Walk the medieval walls of York and enjoy spectacular views of the city Customise your tour to include a visit to The Shambles, York Minster or York Castle Bespoke tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off This private tour can be customized to your interests and ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide

Read more about York Walls Private Walking Tour.

5. York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour with Guide

Book tickets for Small Group Evening Walking Tour

Experience York at its most atmospheric around sundown, after the tourist hordes have departed but before the night begins. This evening stroll hits the highlights, including York Minster, the City Walls and Shambles, but also takes you deep into the “Snickelways”, a medieval warren of secret passages, shortcuts and hidden alleys.

Guides carry iPads with multimedia to bring the tour to life, while you’ll take home a map of York. Experience York’s medieval centre by twilight on an evening walking tour Follow in the footsteps of Henry VIII and see 2,000 years of history Guide provides lively commentary, with multimedia input from an iPad Great start to a stay in York—includes a complimentary map to explore more

Read more about York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour with Guide.

6. York Witches and History Walking Tour with Cauldron Experience

Book tickets for York Witches and History Tour

See a different side of York with this spellbinding tour that features stories of witches, mysteries, and spooky events that don’t usually feature on traditional sightseeing tours. Walk past famous historical sites—such as the York Minster and the Shambles—and enjoy entertaining commentary from a character guide.

A highlight is a visit to the Potions Cauldron—a magical drinks emporium, where you can take part in a potion-making experience. Hear tales about the witches of Yorkshire on this guided walking tour Find out sinister and spooky tales as you walk past medieval Old Town sights Enjoy special perks—such as a potion-making experience and a surprise g

Read more about York Witches and History Walking Tour with Cauldron Experience.

7. Shared 3 Hours Hidden Gems Foodie Tour of York

Book tickets for 3 Hour Foodie Tour of York.

“Discover the places to eat around York, and learn about the city’s culinary scene during this half-day walking tour. You’ll learn where to go for food that’s local or from faraway, suss out the places away from the tourist trail, and try an eclectic mix of flavors as you go.

Nice touch: The tour is capped at just eight people per group for a more sociable and intimate experience. Book a popular York food tour online and get instant confirmation. Visit a carefully selected assortment of eateries around York.  Find locales that you’ll want to revisit later during your vacation.  Meet local food producers and learn about artisan food trades

Read more about Shared 3 Hours Hidden Gems Foodie Tour of York”. 

8. Guided Historic Pub Tour of York

Book tickets for Guided Historic Pub Tour of York.

“A guided pub crawl through York’s medieval snickelways, following in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and Papist plotters, Royalists and Roundheads, Whigs, Wool Traders, and Dick Turpin to boot.

Walking just three-quarters of a mile and stopping at up to 7 of York’s most historic pubs you will hear tales of execution and murder, local saints and Irish giants. And if you like spirits, there are plenty, and not just the bottled variety. Join us and drink in York’s fascinating history!”

Read more about Guided Historic Pub Tour in York.

9. Trust Trail: Literary York – Self Guided

• Distance: 0.63 miles / 1 km
• Steps: 1,312

“From the Brontë sisters, to Bram Stoker and Ted Hughes, Yorkshire has long been associated with celebrated authors who have drawn inspiration from the desolate beauty of its rugged moors and ruined abbeys. The city of York itself has a rich literary history, and has been known for producing books since the eight century when famous scholar Alcuin’s internationally renowned collection was destroyed by Viking invaders. Daniel Defoe and Charles Dickens were regular visitors, with the latter referencing the Minster in Nicholas Nickleby.

And, of course, Harry Potter fans couldn’t visit York without a trip to ‘The Shop That Must Not Be Named’ on the Shambles.This whistle-stop tour of literary York lasts between 30-60 minutes and covers two-thirds of a mile. Starting on Stonegate, you’ll pass by the Minster, through Dean’s Park and finish on the grand terraced-lined streets of Bootham. On the way you’ll also go by some of York’s specialist bookshops, a grand library, and other literary landmarks.”

Learn more about this literary tour here.

10. The Original Ghost Walk of York

The Original Ghost Walk of York is “believed to be the first exclusive Ghost Walk in the World! Established in 1973, we have decades of practice when it comes to providing you with a legendary and disturbing experience. We offer a night of history and mystery in York, promising to capture your imagination and inspire the mind. The Original Ghost Walk of York is famous for being genuine, authentic, and magical, exploring the haunted spots of York. We take pride in our excellent reputation, allowing you to face your fears and encounter genuinely mysterious experiences, all from one of the most famous pubs in Britain. Find out why!”

Ghost Tour Start Location

The Kings Arms Pub, 3 King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN

When is the Ghost Tour?

6.30pm and 8pm every night except 24th, 25th and 26th December

How long does the Ghost Tour last?

75-90 minutes

How much is the Ghost Tour?

£7.50 adults and £5 children

11. White Rose York Tours

“What’s On The Free Tour?

On the White Rose free tour of York you will see and hear the history of one of the most fascinating cities in Britain or anywhere else in the world. The tour lasts three hours, and this includes a break for refreshments just after half way. If you do not feel like you can last the full tour, please feel free to come with us for the first half, and then see how you feel! Our free tour includes:

• York Minster and the Liberty of St Peter
• The City Walls* and Gatehouses
• St Mary’s Abbey and the Museum Gardens
• The Shambles
• York Castle
• Roman and Viking Invasions
• Catholic Saints and Martyrs
• English Kings and Queens
• Dick Turpin and the truth about the Moonlight Ride

The tour commences every morning (year round) at 11am and every afternoon from April to October at 3pm. Also, additional tours run Fridays and Saturdays at 1pm November to March. All our tours start outside the West Entrance of York Minster.”

Click here to see more ghost walks on this post.

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York Walking Tours: The COMPLETE Guide

From free tours to ghost tours and everything in between, there are so many York walking tours to choose from. I’ve scoured the internet for all the York walking tours I could find and put them all together in this handy guide for you to browse.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

I love to take a walking tour whenever I arrive in a new city. You can learn so much about a place in a few hours and they’re a great way to get your bearings when you arrive somewhere new. Walking tours are generally run by local people too so you can quiz your guide for the best local tips and recommendations to make the best of your stay.

There are so many different types of York walking tours that I’m certain you’ll find something to enjoy.

Looking for more things to do in York? Check out my ULTIMATE Guide to York!

• 1.1 Bespoke York -Private Walking Tour of the Walled City
• 1.2 York Walls Private Walking Tour
• 1.3 Private 2 Hour York Walking Tour
• 1.4 Private Viking Walk of York
• 1.5 Private Walking Tour of York
• 1.6 Private York Christmas Walking Tour
• 1.7 Private Walking Tour: York City Highlights & York Minster
• 1.8 Private Historical Walking Tour of York
• 2.1 York: A Harry Potter Themed Guided Tour of York
• 2.2 York: 1 Hour Evening Walking Tour
• 2.3 York Minster & City Walking Tour
• 2.4 Best of York on Foot
• 2.5 Instagrammable York History Experience
• 2.6 The Bloody Tour of York
• 2.7 The Bloody York Gin Tour with Mad Alice
• 3.1 Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels Walking Audio Tour by Voicemap
• 3.2 A Fatal Feud – An Immersive Treasure Hunt – Style Murder Mystery – The Secret City
• 4 FREE WALKING TOURS IN YORK
• 5 YORK GHOST WALKS
• 6 OTHER YORK TOURS
• 7 WHICH YORK WALKING TOUR WILL YOU CHOOSE?

PRIVATE YORK WALKING TOURS

Want to take things at your own pace and stop for all the photographs without feeling like you’re holding the rest of the group up?

Have a specific historical focus in mind that you want the tour to focus on?

Want to choose where to start and end the tour and even pick the sights you see along the way?

Then a private York walking tour is the one for you!

There are SO MANY private York walking tours to choose from. Here’s a roundup of all the exclusive tours that are available in York.

Bespoke York -Private Walking Tour of the Walled City

An exclusive two hour tour York walking tour.

Explore York with your private guide as you take in the complete history of York from the beginnings of Christianity right through to its days as The Chocolate City.

Learn about York’s dealings with the Vikings and the Romans and how these significant events in history have shaped the city we see today.

York Walls Private Walking Tour

A 2-3 hour bespoke tour tailored to your interests.

The walk focuses on the city walls with their spectacular city views and fascinating medieval history, but this walk is free for you to customise as you please.

See areas often missed by tourists, stop off for refreshments in some of York’s best coffee shops, visit the most famous medieval street in the world and take a peek inside York Minster. Whatever you want to do, you can be sure that this will be a fun filled and truly personalised experience of York.

Private 2 Hour York Walking Tour

A fully customisable, 2 hour York walking tour.

The walk is completely tailored to your interests so just let your guide know what you want to see.

If you’re not sure, or you just want an overall York experience, your guide can create a perfect itinerary for you.

See York’s hidden gems as well as its top attractions, all whilst soaking up the historical atmosphere and learning about the city’s rich history and best kept secrets.

Private Viking Walk of York

A two hour private tour with your guide, Sigwulf.

If you want an in depth account of York’s days as a Viking city, then look no further.

Sigwulf will take you on a fascinating York walking tour and teach you things you never knew about how the Vikings influenced the city of York.

Learn about the deeds of famous Vikings such as Ivar the Boneless and discover the origins of those strange street names.

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit an authentic themed Viking bar, built right on top of an original Viking feasting hall!

Private Walking Tour of York

An exclusive 1.5 – 2 hour York walking tour.

Fully tailored to your specific needs and interests, choose your starting point anywhere in the city to begin your adventure.

Gain a fantastic overview of this fascinating city, which will take you on a journey through Roman history, Viking rule and chocolate heaven.

Private York Christmas Walking Tour

This 2 hour fully customisable tour is the ultimate festive treat!

York can get extremely busy at Christmas time but it’s also arguably when it’s at its most magical.

Navigate the crowds with your own private tour guide at your side, learning all about York’s rich and fascinating history and visiting famous landmarks and hidden gems.

Private Walking Tour: York City Highlights & York Minster

The longest of the private tours, this York walking tour is around 4 hours long.

Starting at York Railway Station, this tour packs in the best of York’s top attractions such as the Museum Gardens, Jorvik Viking Centre, The Shambles, Clifford’s Tower, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall and finishes at York Minster.

Your ticket for York Minster is included and you can skip the queues to enjoy a private tour of the impressive gothic cathedral.

Private Historical Walking Tour of York

This tour gets great reviews on TripAdvisor.

With hotel pick up at any central location, this historical walking tour covers York’s history, culture, architecture and people, with content tailored specifically to your own interests.

Guides are knowledgable and enthusiastic historians who pride themselves on being able to answer any (York related!) question that’s thrown at them!

GROUP YORK WALKING TOURS

Generally a much cheaper option than a private tour, you can still get so much value from a group walking tour of York.

Just because you can’t choose the itinerary on a group York walking tour doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find a York walking tour that suits your interests.

Just like the private York walking tours, there are a whole host of group walking tours to choose from.

Here is a complete roundup of all the available group walking tours of York.

York: A Harry Potter Themed Guided Tour of York

This two hour York walking tour is an absolute must for any Harry Potter fans.

A fun and interactive tour, your guide will entertain you with facts about Harry Potter as well as the history of York itself.

The tour promises quizzes and games with video clips of movie scenes, costume pieces and re-enactments. You’ll be taken to some Harry Potter themed sites as well as seeing and learning about some of York’s main historic attractions.

York: 1 Hour Evening Walking Tour

This one hour York walking tour allows you to soak up the history and charm of York after most of the other tourists have retreated back to their hotels for the night.

A great introduction to York’s colourful history, this tour will take you through the snickelways and backstreets to show you all of York’s main historical sites.

York Minster & City Walking Tour

This two hour walking tour offers a fantastic journey through York’s fascinating history with entrance to York Minster included.

Most of the tour guides are history students from York University, and their enthusiasm and knowledge about their subject will shine through.

Dig deep into York’s history and marvel at the stunning architecture whilst exploring all the major historic landmarks in the city.

Best of York on Foot

A fantastic introductory tour of the city, this 1.5 hour York walking tour is a great option for those wanting an overview of York and its history.

Visit St. Mary’s Abbey, Museum Gardens, York Minster (tickets not included), Stonegate and the Shambles whilst learning about York’s rich history along the way.

Instagrammable York History Experience

Definitely one for the photographers out there, this tour is the perfect mix of history, culture and Instagram worthy backdrops.

With a focus on capturing York at its best, your guide, John promises to take you off the beaten track and show you parts of York that you might otherwise have missed.

With a keen eye for photography, he limits the tours to 10 people so he can create an intimate experience and ensure you capture the perfect shot.

The Bloody Tour of York

See a different side to York on this enjoyable hour and a half walking tour of York’s gruesome past.

Mixing entertainment with education, your guide will teach about the bloody past of York’s top landmarks in this fun alternative city tour.  If you fancy a twist on the traditional historic walking tour, this one is for you!

The Bloody York Gin Tour with Mad Alice

This two hour York walking tour combines history and gin to create the perfect introduction to the city.

With three samples of gin thrown into the mix, you’ll explore the Shambles, see the imposing York Minster and learn some gruesome tales of York’s bloody past.

AUDIO & DIY WALKING TOURS OF YORK

If you prefer to explore independently but would still like a bit of guidance , then you might like to check out an audio walking tour of York.

Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels Walking Audio Tour by Voicemap

VoiceMap is a unique city guide which uses your smartphone’s GPS alongside the VoiceMap app to guide you around the city at your own pace entirely. If your data is restricted, the VoiceMap app will also work offline.

If you were to take the tour in one go, it would last around 1 hour 15 minutes, but you can stretch this one out for as long as you like. Stop for a coffee when you want, visit a museum if it takes your fancy, jump on a river cruise if you feel the need. The app, and the rest of your tour, will be waiting for you when you’re ready to pick it back up again.

A Fatal Feud – An Immersive Treasure Hunt – Style Murder Mystery – The Secret City

Based on a real murder trial that took place around 1491, this immersive treasure hunt style adventure offers you a different way to explore York and see the major sites.

Riddles are sent to you via a smartphone app for you to solve as you explore York and take in the incredible historic sites around you.

There are two optional pub breaks along the way, and help is at hand if you need some help or find yourself lost. Your progress is also timed so it’s a great way for groups of friends to challenge each other!

FREE WALKING TOURS IN YORK

As well as the options that require you to pay upfront, there are also a number of ‘free’ York walking tours available.

I’ve been on many a free walking tour in cities all over the world. I’ve had some great experiences and some experiences that have left me just wanting to run away at the first opportunity! It can be a bit of a gamble but thankfully, it’s usually worked out ok for me.

Although these York walking tours are technically free, there is the expectation that you will offer a donation to your guide at the end of the tour based on what you feel the tour was worth. I always have an idea of what a paid walking tour would have cost and base my donation around that. If you do it this way, you won’t necessarily end up paying much less for a free tour than you would for one of the paid options, but doing it this way seems fair to me.

Here is a list of the all the available free walking tours in York.

Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York – this tour really does appear to be free in the true sense of the word. The website states there is really no need to offer a tip at the end!

Footprints 2 Hour Free Walking Tour of York

White Rose York

YORK GHOST WALKS

Being a city with such a gruesome past, there is little wonder that there are many tales of ghosts and ghouls which haunt the streets of York.

Capitalising on this, there are several different ghost walks that take place around the city in the evening.

I really enjoyed the Original York Ghost Tour during my recent short break in York. It was just the right mixture of informative, entertaining and spooky.

I’ve put together a list of all the ghost tours available in York.

The Original Ghost Walk of York

Shadow of York Ghost Walk – voted best small attraction in York

Ghost Hunt of York

The Ghost Trail of York

Ghost Creeper

Ghost Keeper

OTHER YORK TOURS

There are other ways to see York that don’t involve so much walking. If you want to give your feet a rest, take a look at some of these other options for tours in York.

York & Yorkshire – Full Day Guided Walking and Minibus Tour

Guided Cycling Tour of York

York Hop On Hop Off Bus

WHICH YORK WALKING TOUR WILL YOU CHOOSE?

That just about concludes my complete guide to York walking tours!

As you can see, there are plenty to choose from and you’re almost guaranteed to find something that suits both your interests and your budget.

Which York walking tour will you choose? Drop me a message and let me know!

Hi! I’m Helen – proud Northerner and the founder of Venture Up North. Disclosing local secrets to inspire unique adventures, join me on my mission to make sure that Northern England is recognised for the truly wonderful place that it is.

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Learn more about the history of York on a walking tour around the city or if you prefer two-wheels you can pedal away with a guided cycling tour. If you'd rather sit back and let someone else take the driver seat a take a hop On-Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus or York City Cruise.

Want to include some fresh countryside air in your tour? Choose one of the driving tours out to the Yorkshire Moors, Dales and Coast. Take your seat and let your driver take you to amazing views of the Yorkshire countryside.

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Top Tours in York, England

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour of York: Experience of the Year 2024

2. Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

3. The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small

4. Mad Alice’s The Bloody Tour of York -Best Tour Award Europe 2024

5. Moors, Whitby & The Yorkshire Steam Railway Day Trip from York

6. North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York

7. The Best of York on Foot in a Small Group

8. Castle Howard Entrance Ticket

9. Full-Day Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

10. Ghost Bus Tour of York

11. Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire

12. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York

13. Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York

14. York City walking tour - History Chronicles

15. Private "All Creatures Great and Small" Yorkshire Dales Tour from York

16. Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in York: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

17. Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

18. City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

19. Small group Tasting Tour of York

20. Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York

21. York Dark Chronicles: Devilishly Gruesome Ghost Walk

22. Shadows of York: Award winning historical ghost walk

23. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York

24. Chocolate Bar Making Workshop - York Cocoa Works

25. York Walls Private Walking Tour

26. Shared Walking Tour in York

27. Private Tour - Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York

28. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around York with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

29. Private Walking Tour: York City Highlights and York Minster

30. York on a Fork Food Tour

What travellers are saying.

• The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour of York: Experience of the Year 2024
• Mad Alice’s The Bloody Tour of York - Tourism Award Winner
• Ghost Bus Tour of York
• Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York
• Dark Chronicles Ghostly Gruesome tour - York
• The Derwent Valley Light Railway
• The Bloody Tour of York
• The Wizard Walk of York
• Dave Haw Tours York
• Descubre York Tours
• Shadows of York
• White Rose York Free Tours - Day Tours
• Walking Tours - Association of Voluntary Guides
• Tours in a Dish
• York Cycling Tours
• The Deathly Dark Tours
• The Original Ghost Walk of York
• The Ghost Bus Tours
• Lost Earth Adventures
• Everyman Racing
• 6th Gear Experience
• Yorkshire Balloon Flights

Tourist Walks

Walks in England

Other walks.

FREE App with A FREE WALK in Every City

Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. We provide a free walk to our new users.

Full Audio Visual Commentary

Tourist Walks is an application that can give you the freedom to explore the famous walks at your own discretion. We have created a full audio-visual self-guided experience that gives you the confidence to explore and discover the stories of various cities on your own.

Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them

Get a list of all the tourist sites you can visit. The Tourist Walks application will guide you to your next destination because every journey starts with a single step.

GPS and Multilingual Audio and Text Guidance

Even if you don’t understand the local language of the city you are visiting, Don’t worry. Audio guided walks have multilingual text assistance that will guide you in your native language.

Start/Stop/Rewind /Restart Go at Your Own Pace

Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination.  We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.

Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.

It is always frustrating when you wish to travel somewhere but your mobile phone service is out-of-order. Don’t worry! Tourist Walks comes with an offline version of built-in maps you might need, even without internet access.

• Full Audio Visual
• Tourist Sites
• Multilingual Texts
• Easy Audio Access
• Offline App

FREE App & Walk Summaries

Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. The App is FREE, and all the walk summaries are FREE, each walk is individually priced and you can buy all the walks for a city at a discounted price.

Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them

Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination. We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.

Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.

Self-guided walks in york.

Established by the ancient Romans in 71 AD, the city of York breathes history. York has played a central role throughout much of England’s history with its Roman roots and a Viking past. During the amazing experience of a self-guided walking tour in York, you will learn about religion, Roman conquerors, revolutions, architecture and history of Vikings and Harry Potter. The maze of historic narrow streets makes it a great place to explore on foot. The city has the second-largest Gothic cathedral with buildings listed as architecturally and historically significant. Parliament Street is an attractive spot for shopping which has been pedestrianized since the 1980s. Learn more about the history of York and the best places for a budget-friendly walking tour in York. Pick a walk depending on how much time you have or what you wish to see.

Top Tourist Walks in York

Some amazingly spooky tales from old town York will have you looking over your shoulder

Historic Pub Walk

A lovely pub crawl around the streets of ancient walk, with some ghosts as well!

Old Town Walk

Visit the must see places in the old town including the Shambles and Stonegate.

York Video Gallery

List of walks in york.

Do you like to explore places that have paranormal mysteries? If yes, then this ghost trail in York is for you. On this York ghost tour, we’ll take you through narrow and dark passages while unfolding spine-chilling tales of these spots. This walk would be quite a hair-raising experience at a pretty modest price. Let’s jump on the best ghost walk in York and indulge in the dark side of York.

Old Town is brimming with places that spill the history and origination of the city. It would be delightful and astonishing to witness all the medieval period buildings, museums, and much more. You’ll have your historical horizons expanded after this York tour. And all this at your own pace with a budget-friendly price without splurging on pricy guides? Yes, that’s the deal. Are you ready to explore some historic sites? Let’s hop on with Tourist Walks.

Book Your Walk Now!

Castle, docks & dick turpin walk.

Please see some of the highlights of this walk in the images below. From Roman times York has been a port on the River Ouse and the Castle guarded both the City and that port. On this walk we take you along the river and to the Castle and there we visit one of the best museums in the city York Castle Museum. We then take you to the gravesite of one of Englands best known thieves, Dick Turpin who is famous for, amongst other things, riding from the South East to York in record time to escape justice. However he found justice here, waiting for him. We then see one of two remaining medieval Guild houses and the 17th Century home of a friend of King Charles II. Later we come to the world famous Jorvic Centre interactive viking museum. Jorvic was the viking name for York. This tour is definitely one to add to your “things to do in York” list. Happy sightseeing.

The Minster Walk

Please see some of the highlights of this walk in the images below. The Minster is the biggest jewel in the crown of York, and it is a place every Tourist should have on their list of things to do in York. We offer this tour to you FREE. What you get on this tour is the splendour of the York Minster windows seen from the inside at the four points of the compass, we visit the chapels, tombs including the tomb of the builder of this great building, and we visit where the business of running the Cathedral is conducted. There is also a museum in the undercroft dedicated to the Minster and its role in the city of York. All of which have something interesting to offer. Happy sightseeing.

St Marys Abbey, Gardens & Exhibition Square Walk

Please see some of the highlights of this walk in the images below. Our Central York tour takes you to the heart of the city where shopping has been the main activity for centuries, but also amongst the shops York has some surprising stories to tell and places to visit. On this tour we visit one of the sites that is on everyone’s “things to do in York” list, the Shambles no to mention Barley Hall, The Judges Lodgings which is on the site of a mass burial grave, and the fate of poor Margaret Clitheroe, one time resident of the Shambles. This tour really gives you an insight into the history of York. Happy sightseeing.

View All York Walks

York City Wall Walk

The Old Town Walk

York Ghost Walk

SELF GUIDED WALKS

Do you wish to explore all the beautiful tourist spots? Download our application and discover the hidden beauty and mystery of your destination. Explore today!

Frequently Asked Questions

No. After the walks have been downloaded, for which you need an internet connection, no mobile data is required to do the walks.

No you can pause and resume at any point within the walk. Whether you need a coffee or a comfort break the walks are entirely flexible.

Yes you will receive both verbal guidance and a GPS enabled map to take you around each of the points of interest on the walks.

No the walks are circular so you will receive multiple options of where to start each walk.

Yes there are providing you buy them as a bundle, not one at a time. You can even buy all the walks in one package at a very generous price.

For each point of interest you will get information both verbally and in text and sometimes video form together with helpful images to get the most from each one.

You can pay by all manner of credit and debit cards as well as Paypal.

In the walk summary we point out if the walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pets, and there is also an indication of the distance of the walk, and how long it will take.

Yes we would love to hear from you through our website: www.touristwalks.co.uk

Happy Tourists

If you’re looking for a great way to explore York, England, then be sure to check out the Tourist Walk! This self-guided walking tour is one of the best ways to see all the city has to offer. You’ll get to explore historic buildings, beautiful parks, and much more. The tour takes about two hours, and it’s a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The Tourist Walk is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a great way to see York!

I thoroughly enjoyed this self guided walk around York. It was a great way to see the city and learn about its history. The route was clearly marked and easy to follow. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a great way to spend a few hours in York. Thanks for a great experience!

Cortney Jane

I highly recommend the self guided walk in York. It is a great way to see the city and get some exercise. The route is well marked and easy to follow. There are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. I especially enjoyed the historic sites and buildings that I would have never known about otherwise. This is a great activity for all ages.

Sally Andrew

Martin Luca

If you’re looking for a fun and informative way to see York, I highly recommend the self guided walking tour. There’s no need to hire a guide – with a well-marked map and some helpful pointers, you can explore the city at your own pace. And there’s plenty to see – from the charming medieval streets of the old town to the towering Gothic cathedral, there’s something for everyone. The tour takes you past all the major landmarks, and you’ll learn a lot about the history and culture of York along the way. I had a great time on this tour, and I’m sure you will too!

Christopher

If you’re looking for a great way to experience York, you need to go on a walking tour! I did the self-guided walk and it was a lot of fun. The route is well-marked and takes you through all the major tourist spots in the city. I would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting York.

10 Best Places on A Charming York Walking Tour (with Map)

Once we visited York , it quickly became one of our favorite places to visit in the in UK. From the impressive York Cathedral to the beautiful medieval entry gates, York is packed with really cool things to see. In addition, our kids really enjoyed a couple of museums. So let’s explore my favorite York walking tour.

Come along with me as we take a walking tour of beautiful York UK. York is a very walkable city with a beautiful location. You can immerse youtself in the past as well as take leisurely strolls by the river. First time in York? Then let’s put on some comfortable walking shoes and go on my favorite self guided York walking tour.

In this article:

My Favorite Tourist Attractions in York UK

Let me start with a summary of my favorite things to visit on your York walking tour.

• York Minster is the center of town and impressive indeed.
• Walking on Stonegate street and the few narrow, cobbled streets coming from it.
• The impressive medieval entry gates and walking on the wall.
• York riverfront at River Ouse
• National Railway Museum is a great place to see, especially for kids.

With our comfortable walking shoes on and our map in hand, let’s start our York walking tour.

1. York Minster

The first sight on our York walking tour is the magnificent York Minster , a sprawling 13th Century masterpiece. York Minster is the second largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, and its stunning cross-shaped (or cruciform) floor plan is adorned by almost one hundred and thirty vibrant stained glass windows. York Minster, along with other large churches like Ely Cathedral form the rich British Gothic architecture heritage.

Near the Southern walls of the cathedral, you will observe a statue of Roman Emperor Constantine, who was coronated here when York was a Roman settlement.

2. Stonegate Street

I love walking on Stonegate Street and it should be part of any York walking tour! Charming old English buildings line up the street while a few old narrow and crooked alleyways that take you back into time.

3. Bettys Café & Tea Rooms

Tired of walking already? Not to worry, our next stop on our York walking tour is the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms on St. Helen’s Square. We may pass by the Stonegate location of this cafe during our walk through the narrow cobblestone streets, but this location is much larger and more historic .

The café  opened in 1936 and features decorations inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner (which is now a museum in Long Beach, California).

While the tea rooms can be crowded, you won’t regret waiting in the queue when you take your first sip of soothing tea and bite of a buttery scone with clotted cream and jam.

4. Museum Gardens & St. Mary’s Abbey Ruins

Next on our York walking tour, we visit the lush Museum Gardens, situated on the bank of the River Ouse. Explore the greenery as well as the historic sites in the gardens, including the remains of a Roman fort and the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey.

The original Abbey was founded in 1055 and constructed on this site, with the gardens serving as its grounds. Now, only the North and West walls remain, but their charm extends throughout the garden. Take the opportunity to relax under the trees before we continue our walking tour of York, England.

5. Medieval City Walls and Entry Gates

After we exit the park, we continue our York walking tour, as we catch our first glimpses of York’s historic city walls. Various walls surrounding the center of York have been erected and destroyed since the city’s founding in 71 C.E., and the ones we see today date back to the 12th-14th centuries. While only portions of the city walls remain, all of the city’s original entry gates or “Bars” have been preserved. The entry gates served as traffic control, defense, and tax collection stations. Shortly, we will arrive at Bootham Bar , and then we will continue our walking tour of York atop the historic city walls until we reach Monk Bar. We will observe views of Dean’s Park along the way, which houses the York Minster Library . This charming walking path allows you to experience firsthand a piece of the city’s history that has been present for centuries.

6. Walk The Shambles

Walking down on Parliament Street towards York Castle, take a left turn on Newgate and then go right when you see the small sign for The Shambles. You will be instantly transported into old medieval times in York. This old cobbled street served as the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley as it still has old timber buildings dating from the 14th century. This is a must see York attraction and should be part of your York walking tour.

7. Jorvik Viking Center

On the way to our next stop, you may want to pause to take a photo of the historic Fairfax House , a Georgian-style mansion with a gorgeous façade. Shortly, we will reach the Jorvik Viking Center , where you will be treated to a taste of Viking life in York. This interactive experience is located on Coppergate Walk , a narrow pedestrian street with many shops and eateries to entice you – if you need a quick rest before or after the Viking Center, you will have plenty of delights to choose from. The Jorvik Viking Center recommends that you book your tickets online in advance for this exciting experience, as this allows you to have a guaranteed entry time. Don’t forget to arrive a few minutes early for a security screening.

8. York Castle & Clifford Tower

After brief walk, our York walking tour takes us to a peninsula at the intersection of the River Ouse and the River Foss – the geographic feature that made York an ideal location for an ancient Roman settlement. This location was also perfect for William the Conqueror, who first constructed a castle on the promontory in 1068. Not only does the intersection of the rivers provide natural protection from invasion, it also provides increased potential for trade routes and travel throughout the rest of England. Clifford Tower , the original castle bailey, sits atop a grassy hill overlooking the nearby streets. You will find stretches of the original castle walls surrounding the York Castle Museum , which is housed in two former prison buildings.

If you have extra time, you can also walk atop York’s medieval wall on the southern side . Walking behind York Castle, shortly, we will arrive at the smaller Fishergate Bar , and then we will continue our walking tour of York atop the historic city walls until we reach Walmgate Bar . Walmgate Bar remains the only town gate in England to have a barbican, a type of reinforced defense tower. This charming walking path allows you to experience firsthand a piece of the city’s history that has been present for centuries.

9. York Riverfront

From York Castle, we continue our York walking tour by simply crossing the street and coming to the beautiful Tower Gardens city park. Depending on how much time you have, you can take a stroll on the beautiful tree lined walking path or simply rest on a bench overlooking the River Ouse. Walking upriver and staying on the banks of River Ouse you can enjoy the hip riverfront area with lots of restaurants and beautiful views of the river. In addition, you can quickly walk up to the famous York Dungeon and visit this very popular attraction.

10. National Railway Museum

Finally, turn back to the River Ouse and take advantage of the city’s beautiful riverside walking paths to lead you to the final stop on our York walking tour. We arrive at the National Railway Museum , which is conveniently located by the train station if you are traveling out of the city after completing the walking tour. Entry is free, and it is recommended that you leave at least one hour to fully explore what the museum has to offer. Objects on display at the museum include paintings, historic railway station benches and signs, and more. There is also a collection of unique locomotives, and if you plan ahead, you can even book a ride on a steam engine for £4 in advance.

Plan Your Trip to York, UK

We spent an entire day in York and we loved it.  However, if you are in the planning stages of your trip to England, I suggest budgeting two days for visiting York. This way you can also enjoy the town a lot more, especially walking along the river.

Stay in York . You can stay very central by Monk Bar at Double Tree Hotel or in the charming Churchill Hotel conveniently located by Bootham Bar. You can also find other budget hotels in York .

Book a local tour . This local walking tour of York will take you to most of York attractions. This is a beautifully conducted tour. You can also book a gorgeous early evening river cruise .

Where to park in York? Parking inside old town York is somewhat difficult.  If you have a car, my suggestion is to park at the York Castle parking area . If this area is full you can also try the nearby Coppergate Car Park .

Getting to York by train is the most convenient way to visit the city.  This is especially true, if you are coming from London , as the car ride will take you a very long time compared with the high speed train. Picking up the train in King’s Cross London station will put you in York in about 2 hours. Once in York, the train station is within easy walking distance from most York attractions.

Is York Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! If you plan on visiting England, York should be one of your destinations to visit. We found York to be charming and very interesting for visitors.

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The most magical ticket in town

York’s only walking tour specifically aimed at families with children! Winner of many awards including Best Tour, Best of York and TripAdvisor’s 3rd Best Family Experience in the World

“Highlight of our trip, my children loved this tour. An easy 5 stars!” – Nicola G

S pellbinding magic, comedy and five-star family fun! A dd Wizard Wand Kits , call in for Wizard Ice Creams  and – on selected dates – book a Bird of Prey Experience too!

“Brilliant, fun and engaging! Our daughters said this was the highlight of their week!” – A. Tolen

Find magical creatures on a tour wizard fans go Potty for! And unlike a York ghost walk, there are no spooky ghosts and no scary stories

Ideal for children aged 5-10 in particular , or bigger kids with a silly sense of humour. Fun and laughter for all the family!

Regular public tours, and private bookings available for school groups, birthday parties   and more.

BOOK NOW to experience the magic

“Magical memories to last a lifetime! ” – C. Gamble

Looking for something even more magical?

BOOK ONLINE

 Book now  and  join a wizard wand-er round York! 

Early booking recommended   as many tours fill up fast, especially during the holidays. 

The Wizard Walk of York is run by Magic Hatter Entertainments LTD – purveyors of magical, memorable entertainment for all ages.

Grab your broomstick and fly on over…

The Wizard Walk of York starts at The Shambles on selected days. Visit the Booking page to see when tours are running and book your place

© Wizard Walk of York 2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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WALKING TOURS IN YORK

Local guides | local experiences.

Hi we’re Liv and Jenny, we founded this company in 2017, because we understand how important it is to meet and spend time with a local when you visit a new place. We initially took the tours ourself, before expanding into a group of guides, each who bring their own spin to the tours.

In each place, all of our guides are guides because they are passionate about the city and they want to share its beauty with you! Our guides come from all walks of life, and all have their own unique experiences of their hometown, which is what makes every tour unique. We hope to see you on one of our tours soon.

We don’t just offer your standard history tours, we have unique experiences too! You can book any day from now until the end of 2024.

MEET OUR TEAM

Coming soon.

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The Free York Walking Tour

Tour Information

Free york tour, free york tour highlights.

Free Tours By Foot is proud to present York’s newest pay-what-you-like walking tour!

Sometimes known as England’s second city, York’s tangible history goes back centuries. A one-time capital city, York was founded by the Romans, inhabited by the Vikings, destroyed by William the Conquerer, and played a key role in the Wars of the Roses and Civil Wars before finding it’s place as an early railway hub and confectionery manufacturing Mecca. Come with Free Tours by Foot and explore medieval walls, stone gateways and cobbled streets. We’ll visit the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey, the stunning windows of York Minster, and the iconic buildings on the Shambles.

Learn the difference between a snickett and a ginnel as we make our way down hidden alleyways, through beautiful gardens, and along a lovely river. See the warehouses that first brought Chocolate to the country, the remains of a Norman castle, the prison where England’s most notorious rogues did time, and one of the most famous tea rooms in the country. Free Tours By Foot is ready to show you all that York has to offer on this one-of-a-kind tour!

Sites Visited on the Free York Walking Tour:

• Abbey Gardens
• St. Mary’s Abbey
• Yorkshire Museum
• Exhibition Square
• The City Walls
• York Minster
• Barley Hall
• The Shambles (Diagon Alley?)
• Betty’s Tea Rooms
• Jorvik Viking Museum
• Clifford’s Tower
• York Castle Museum (former prison)
• Skeldgergate Bridge

Reservations:  Book HERE . Walk-ups will be permitted, if space is available.

Where:  Tour begins at the Museum Gardens gate. ( map )

When: Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:30

Duration:  Approximately 2 hours.

Distance: 2.5 km (1.5miles)

Language: English

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it’s done. A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for anyone’s budget.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.