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Overview
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.
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.
End Point
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.
Redemption Instructions
Tours leave at the time booked, from the statue of Constantine the Great, to be found on the South side of the Cathedral, where you also find the Rose window. Guides will not answer phones during a tour, late comers can contact in advance or up to 5 minutes into the tour. The tour does not return for late comers. No refunds given if tours are missed.
Language Offered
English-GUIDE
Itinerary
1. 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.
2. The largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, York Minster took 252 years too build. There are Minster guides inside, tours last an hour.
3. Walking around the Motte of the castle built in 1069, your guide will bring alive its bloody and dark secrets, walk in the grounds of what would have been on elf the finest castles in England.
4. Walk down into the Medieval levels of the City and let our guide tell you about the richest Guild in York and the part the traders played in Yorks prosperity. Find out how important women were in this guild.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Learn about the origins of York, its visiting emperors and delve into the story of Constantine the Great, his effect on Christianity and York.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Visit the market and discover their significance in Yorks economic growth.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. In this ancient square you'll discover the meaning behind our street names and thinner Viking heritage and learn about the very centre of the city of Jorvic
15. From out side we'll look at the old building s of the museum looking at prison reform, the building usage in the past and delve into the myth and stories behind the real Dick Turpin.
Inclusion
No free inclusions
Exclusion
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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
Reviews
4.7
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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