Robin Hood Tower: York’s Victorian Sentinel on the Historic City Walls
Explore York’s Victorian Robin Hood Tower, a striking city wall sentinel with historic charm and captivating views of medieval defenses and York Minster.
Robin Hood Tower is a striking Victorian-era defensive tower situated on York’s ancient city walls near Monkgate. Built in 1888–89 as a replacement for a ruined medieval tower, it features distinctive cruciform arrow slits and an embattled parapet. The tower offers scenic views along the walls and glimpses of York Minster, embodying York’s layered history from medieval fortifications to Victorian restoration.
A brief summary to Robin Hood Tower
- Unnamed Road, Monkgate, York, YO31 7PD, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views along the walls and of York Minster.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Lord Mayors’ Walk, a scenic Georgian promenade nearby.
- Look for the crossed keys carving in the tower’s paving, symbolizing St Peter and York Minster.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the city walls involve uneven surfaces and steps.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the York Park & Ride service from the Askham Bar or Grimston Bar Park & Ride sites, which runs every 10-15 minutes and stops near Monkgate. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, costing around £3 for a single fare. From the bus stop, it is a 10-minute walk to Robin Hood Tower along the city walls.
-
Taxi
A taxi ride from York city centre to Robin Hood Tower takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically ranging from £6 to £10. Taxis are readily available in the city and provide a direct, convenient option especially if traveling with luggage or in a group.
-
Walking
From York city centre, a pleasant 25-30 minute walk along the historic city walls leads to Robin Hood Tower. The path includes some uneven stone surfaces and steps, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The route offers scenic views of the city and the Minster.
Robin Hood Tower location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Robin Hood Tower
A Storied Corner of York’s City Walls
Robin Hood Tower stands at the northern angle of York’s medieval city walls, marking a significant defensive point where the walls once ended at a large body of water. The current tower, constructed in 1888–89, replaced a ruined medieval predecessor that had borne the Robin Hood name since the early 1600s. Despite the name, there is no historical link to the folk hero Robin Hood; rather, the tower reflects Victorian romanticism and restoration ideals.Architectural Features and Defensive Design
The tower’s design forms a three-quarter circle with a high chamfered plinth and two tiers of cruciform arrow slits arranged in staggered rows, allowing defenders to cover multiple angles. Above the string course, the embattled parapet includes merlons pierced by small slits, combining functionality with decorative Victorian Gothic revival elements. Inside, the tower is divided into a small lobby and a larger rounded room with a concrete roof, accessible through a rear doorway.Views and Surrounding Landscape
From Robin Hood Tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views along the city walls and the adjacent town ditch, a reminder of the deeper defensive ditches that once surrounded York. Although trees partially obscure direct views of York Minster from the tower itself, nearby sections of the wall provide excellent vantage points to admire the cathedral’s intricate Gothic architecture. The tower’s location near Lord Mayors’ Walk, a Georgian-era tree-lined promenade, adds to the historic ambiance.Historical Context and Evolution
The site has been known by various names over centuries, including Bawing Tower in 1370 and Frost Tower in 1485. The medieval walls here were part of York’s extensive fortifications, which evolved from Roman origins through the Middle Ages and were modified during the English Civil War and Victorian period. The Victorian rebuild of Robin Hood Tower reflects the 19th-century fascination with medieval heritage and the desire to preserve and enhance York’s iconic walls.Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Embedded in the tower’s paving is a carving of crossed keys, symbolizing St Peter and alluding to York Minster’s dedication. This subtle detail connects the tower to the spiritual heart of York and its ecclesiastical power. The tower’s imposing presence on the walls serves as a tangible link between York’s military past and its cultural identity, inviting visitors to reflect on centuries of urban defense and civic pride.Experiencing Robin Hood Tower Today
Today, Robin Hood Tower is part of York’s scheduled ancient monument and Grade I listed city walls, attracting visitors who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic walks. The tower’s benches and elevated platform offer a peaceful spot to pause and absorb the layered history visible in the surrounding walls, moat remnants, and distant Minster spires. It remains a testament to York’s enduring medieval legacy and Victorian revivalism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval Walls
0.0 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.3 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.3 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Bootham Bar
0.3 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Sundial Column
0.3 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Roman Column
0.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Norman House
0.4 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Anglian Tower
0.4 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
York Mansion House
0.5 km
Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
GR8escape York
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at GR8escape York, the ultimate escape room destination for fun, teamwork, and unforgettable memories in the heart of York.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.6 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.6 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
St Anthonys Garden
0.6 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dean's Park
0.2 km
A peaceful green oasis beside York Minster, blending historic charm with tranquil gardens and stunning cathedral views.
Chapter House
0.2 km
Medieval masterpiece where timber vaults defy gravity and Parliament once convened in octagonal splendor.
Minster Yard
0.2 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.2 km
Discover a historic townhouse behind York Minster, where lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and centuries of stories await.
City Wall Walk
0.2 km
Walk atop nearly 2,000 years of history on York’s most complete medieval city walls, offering panoramic views and timeless stories at every step.
York Minster
0.3 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.3 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
Hole In The Wall
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Hole In The Wall in York, a historic pub offering local ales, traditional British dishes, and a warm atmosphere.
Petergate House
0.3 km
Explore Petergate House, a stunning historical landmark in York, where rich heritage meets architectural beauty, perfect for every tourist's journey.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.3 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Constantine the Great
0.3 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
Monk Bar
0.3 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.3 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.3 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
William Etty
0.3 km
A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
Essential places to dine
Little Italy
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.3 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Fat Hippo York
0.4 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Côte York
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Forest
0.4 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.4 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Lucia Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Bab Tooma York
0.4 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Los Moros
0.4 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.4 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Wildwood
0.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fairer World
0.1 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Snowhome
0.1 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.3 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cleggs
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Village Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Shared Earth
0.3 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
SOCTOPUS
0.4 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
The Cat Gallery
0.4 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.4 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Rookscroft
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.4 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Imaginarium
0.4 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eagle & Child
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Royal Oak
0.3 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.4 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
0.4 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
The Punch Bowl
0.5 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.5 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Vudu Lounge
0.5 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.5 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.5 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Pivní York
0.5 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.6 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Dusk
0.6 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Revolution York
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Historic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
