Walmgate Bar
England's only surviving town gate with intact barbican, portcullis, and medieval doors—history and coffee in one fortress.
Walmgate Bar is York's most complete medieval gateway, distinguished as the only surviving English town gate retaining its original barbican, portcullis, and 15th-century oak doors. Built in stages from the 12th century onward, this fortress-like structure has endured centuries of conflict, from rebel attacks in 1489 to cannon fire during the 1644 English Civil War siege. Today, visitors can explore its layered medieval architecture, walk the city walls, and enjoy refreshments in a historic coffee house nestled within its ancient stone walls.
A brief summary to Walmgate Bar
- Foss Islands Rd, York, York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Step inside to view the original portcullis and barbican where medieval attackers were trapped—a unique architectural feature found nowhere else in England.
- Examine the exterior walls closely for musket ball holes, tangible remnants of the 1644 Civil War siege that damaged but did not destroy this fortress.
- Use Walmgate Bar as your starting point to walk York's medieval city walls, particularly toward Monk Bar and Bootham Bar for the most dramatic views.
- Visit the coffee house within the bar for refreshments—enjoying a flat white surrounded by 12th-century stonework is an experience unique to this location.
- Allow time to appreciate the Elizabethan house extension supported by Tuscan columns on the inner side—a rare example of domestic architecture integrated into a medieval defensive structure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Foss Islands Road area near Walmgate Bar, including services from York city center. Journey times from the city center are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and route. Buses run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency in early morning and late evening. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50 GBP. The bus stop is within 2–3 minutes' walk of the gate.
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Walking from City Center
York city center is approximately 800 meters from Walmgate Bar, a walk of roughly 10–15 minutes on mostly flat terrain through the medieval street grid. From Coppergate or Parliament Street, follow signs toward the city walls or Walmgate street. The route passes through historic neighborhoods and is well-signposted. No special equipment or fitness level required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout York and can deliver you directly to Walmgate Bar. Journey time from the city center is typically 5–8 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated fare from central York is £6–£10 GBP. Parking near the gate is limited; ride-share is often more convenient than driving your own vehicle.
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Cycling
York is a cycle-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes connecting most areas. The journey from the city center to Walmgate Bar is approximately 1 km and takes 5–8 minutes by bicycle on flat, easy terrain. Bike parking facilities are available near the gate. This is an excellent option for exploring the city walls and surrounding medieval streets.
Walmgate Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Walmgate Bar
A Medieval Fortress Through the Centuries
Walmgate Bar stands as a remarkable testament to medieval military architecture, with construction spanning multiple centuries. The oldest component, a 12th-century stone archway, forms the foundation of this defensive gateway. Throughout the medieval period, successive generations added layers of fortification: the walled barbican was completed in the 14th century, historically accurate reproductions of the 15th-century oak doors were installed, and a timber-framed building was constructed within the bar during the 16th century. This architectural evolution reflects the changing defensive needs and aesthetic preferences of different eras, creating a palimpsest of medieval engineering. The name "Walmgate" derives from its medieval designation as "Walbegate," likely named after an Anglo-Scandinavian individual called Walba, revealing the cultural blend that characterized the region's historical development. The term "bar" itself refers to York's medieval gateways, which served as essential components of the city's defensive walls, controlling access, regulating trade, and protecting inhabitants from invasion.Witness to Conflict and Siege
Walmgate Bar has endured significant historical trauma, bearing physical scars that tell stories of violence and resilience. In 1489, rebels set the structure ablaze during civil unrest sparked by unpopular tax increases, yet the gate survived this assault. More dramatically, during the Siege of York in 1644—a pivotal event in the First English Civil War—the bar withstood bombardment from cannon fire. Visitors can still observe musket ball holes embedded in the exterior walls, grim reminders of the projectiles that once rained upon this fortress. Despite this damage, the gate was restored with parliamentary support, allowing future generations to appreciate its historical significance.Unique Architectural Features
Walmgate Bar possesses architectural distinctions unmatched by any other surviving English town gate. Its barbican—the only one still standing on an English town gate—represents a masterpiece of medieval military design. This outer defensive structure was engineered to trap attackers in a killing zone, a brutal but effective strategy. The functional portcullis, a heavy grille that could be lowered to seal the gateway, remains intact and operational, demonstrating the sophisticated defensive mechanisms employed by medieval engineers. Inside the gate stands an Elizabethan house, notable for its architectural audacity: it extends over the gateway itself, supported by elegant stone columns in the Tuscan order. This domestic structure, occupied continuously until 1957, adds an unexpected layer of civilian history to the bar's martial past, illustrating how defensive structures eventually became integrated into everyday urban life.Modern Life Within Medieval Walls
Today, Walmgate Bar has been thoughtfully adapted to serve contemporary visitors while preserving its historical integrity. A historic coffee house operates within the medieval structure, offering refreshments and seating with views of the ancient stonework. This blend of modern comfort and historical atmosphere creates a unique experience—visitors can enjoy coffee and cake while surrounded by centuries-old architecture, connecting with the past in an intimate and accessible way. The cafe's offerings, including chocolate Rocky Road and quality flat whites, are reasonably priced and provide a welcome respite for those exploring the city.Gateway to York's Defensive System
Walmgate Bar functions as a key access point to York's famous city walls, which encircle the medieval city center. The walls themselves represent an extraordinary feat of medieval engineering, with permission to construct the section enclosing Walmgate granted in 1267, though completion was not achieved until 1505. Walking the walls from Walmgate Bar provides panoramic views of the city and countryside, offering visitors a tangible connection to the sentries who once patrolled these ramparts and the centuries of history that unfolded below. The bar's position at the southeast end of Walmgate street—historically an important thoroughfare serving as the main medieval road to Hull—underscores its strategic significance in York's urban geography.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walmgate Bar
0.0 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
The Stonebow
0.6 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.7 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
Parliament St
0.8 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.8 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.8 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Ouse Bridge
0.9 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
York City Walls
0.9 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
Pikeing Well
0.9 km
Discover Pikeing Well, an 18th-century riverside grotto in York blending medieval stonework and Viking artistry along the historic New Walk promenade.
Bedern Hall
0.9 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Roman Bath
0.9 km
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
The York Cat Trail
0.9 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
1.0 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Lawrence Parish Church, York
0.2 km
Discover York’s historic St Lawrence Parish Church, a serene blend of medieval roots and Victorian architectural grandeur on Lawrence Street.
Walmgate
0.3 km
Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
York Barbican
0.3 km
York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
Red Tower
0.3 km
Explore York’s only brick medieval watchtower, now a vibrant community hub blending history, culture, and social spirit.
Fishergate Bar
0.3 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
Dick Turpins grave
0.3 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
St Denys's Church, York
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.4 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Brew York
0.5 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
York Castle Museum
0.5 km
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, where historic prison walls and a vibrant Victorian street bring York’s rich past vividly to life.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.6 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.6 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
The Black Swan
0.6 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
Fairfax House
0.6 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Tower Gardens
0.7 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Essential places to dine
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.4 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
The Blue Barbakan
0.6 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Cosy Club
0.6 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Rustique Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Arras
0.7 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
The Olive Tree
0.7 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Pavement Vaults
0.7 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Ate O'Clock
0.8 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Corner Grill House
0.8 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Valhalla York
0.8 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Wine Stories
0.9 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Expressions
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Fenwick York
0.6 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.6 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.6 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Gift Gallery
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.8 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.8 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.8 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.8 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
York Souvenir's
0.8 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.8 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
0.9 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
0.9 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
0.9 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fossgate Social
0.6 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.7 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Dyls
0.7 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
The Blue Bell
0.7 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.7 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Three Tuns
0.7 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.8 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Plonkers
0.8 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.8 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Pivní York
0.8 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.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.9 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Vudu Lounge
0.9 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.9 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.9 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Tank & Paddle York
0.9 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Kuda
0.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
1.0 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
1.1 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
1.1 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
1.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.2 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.2 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.4 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.4 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.0 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.3 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.3 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.4 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.5 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Medieval Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
