JORVIK Viking Centre: Immersive Journey into Viking-Age York
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
Located at 19 Coppergate in York, the JORVIK Viking Centre offers a unique, immersive experience into the life and times of Viking-age York circa AD 960. Visitors board a time capsule ride through a meticulously recreated Viking village, complete with authentic sights, sounds, and even smells. The centre also features a state-of-the-art gallery displaying artefacts unearthed during archaeological digs on the site. Pre-booking is essential for entry, and tickets include free return visits for 12 months.
A brief summary to JORVIK Viking Centre
- 19 Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT, GB
- +441904615505
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book your timed entry tickets online to guarantee admission and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the ride, galleries, and interactive exhibits.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through museum galleries and exploring exhibits.
- Engage with costumed interpreters and try handling replica artefacts for a hands-on Viking experience.
- Visit the gift shop at street level for unique Viking-themed souvenirs and memorabilia.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Walking
JORVIK Viking Centre is centrally located in York city centre on Coppergate, approximately a 15-minute walk from York Railway Station. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing through pedestrian-friendly streets.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve York city centre with stops near Coppergate. Bus travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost around £2 to £4 for a single journey.
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Car
There is no dedicated parking at JORVIK Viking Centre. Visitors can use nearby public car parks such as Coppergate Shopping Centre car park or Fossgate car park. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 per hour, with daily maximums.
JORVIK Viking Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about JORVIK Viking Centre
Step Back into Viking York
The JORVIK Viking Centre is situated on the very site where one of the most significant archaeological excavations in modern history took place, revealing a wealth of Viking-age artefacts and insights. The centre’s highlight is a dark ride that transports visitors back to the year AD 960, when York—then called Jorvik—was a bustling Viking city. This ride offers 360-degree views and recreates the streets, market stalls, homes, and inhabitants with remarkable detail, including authentic smells, sounds, and sights that bring the Viking era vividly to life.Archaeology and Artefacts on Display
Beyond the ride, the centre houses a cutting-edge gallery showcasing over 1,000-year-old artefacts discovered during the Coppergate excavations in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Visitors can explore a recreated Viking-age forge and meet costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional crafts such as blacksmithing. These exhibits provide a tangible connection to the past, highlighting the craftsmanship, daily life, and culture of the Vikings who once inhabited York.Interactive and Educational Experiences
JORVIK offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. The orientation space is set at the level of the original Viking streets, several feet below modern York’s surface, enhancing the sense of time travel. Interactive elements include handling replica artefacts and learning about the archaeological process. The centre also runs special exhibitions and seasonal events, such as the recent How to Train Your Dragon School exhibition at its sister site, DIG.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The centre is fully accessible, with facilities including accessible toilets, hearing-impaired accommodations, and baby-changing areas. Wheelchair users must pre-book to ensure a smooth visit. The gift shop at street level features large windows and offers Viking-themed souvenirs. Visitors are encouraged to pre-book tickets online or by phone, as entry is strictly by timed slots to manage capacity.Location and Atmosphere
Located in the heart of York city centre on Coppergate, the JORVIK Viking Centre is close to other major attractions like York Minster and York Castle Museum. The atmosphere inside is immersive and atmospheric, combining historical authenticity with modern museum technology. The centre’s design uses warm red-brown brickwork and glass floors revealing the archaeological site beneath, blending the past and present.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Since opening in 1984, JORVIK Viking Centre has welcomed millions of visitors worldwide and revolutionized how heritage attractions engage the public. It stands as a testament to York’s rich Viking heritage and archaeological importance, offering an unparalleled window into the Viking Age in Britain. The centre is operated by York Archaeology, an educational charity dedicated to preserving and sharing the region’s history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament St
0.2 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
0.2 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.
Ouse Bridge
0.2 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.3 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
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The Stonebow
0.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Barley Hall
0.4 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
Walmgate
0.4 km
Explore Walmgate, a historic street in York, blending medieval charm with vibrant shops and delightful eateries in the heart of England.
Baile Hill
0.4 km
Experience the history and beauty of York at Baile Hill, where stunning views and rich heritage come together in a serene setting.
Bedern Hall
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Roman Column
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Anthonys Garden
0.5 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Fishergate Bar
0.5 km
Step through Fishergate Bar, a medieval gateway guarding York’s southern entrance, steeped in history and tales of rebellion.
Sundial Column
0.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.0 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
St Mary's Church
0.0 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.0 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.0 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Fairfax House
0.1 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
The York Dungeon
0.1 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.1 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
York Army Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
The Spurriergate Centre
0.2 km
A historic 12th-century church transformed into a vibrant community café and Christian centre in the heart of York.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.2 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
28 Shambles
0.2 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.2 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
York Gift Center
0.2 km
Discover authentic York souvenirs and local crafts in a charming historic gift shop nestled in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
Rustique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in the cosy, historic heart of York at Rustique Restaurant on Castlegate.
Pavement Vaults
0.1 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets fresh, seasonal Modern European cuisine beneath York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Ate O'Clock
0.1 km
A charming modern European bistro in York’s historic heart, offering locally sourced dishes in a whimsical, cozy setting with a unique clock-themed ambiance.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.2 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Corner Grill House
0.2 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Cosy Club
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
The Olive Tree
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.3 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.
Valhalla York
0.3 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
The Cut & Craft York
0.3 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.0 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Fenwick York
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
York Souvenir's
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Expressions
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Gift Gallery
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.3 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Greybear
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
Cello by Collectables
0.3 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Three Tuns
0.1 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
0.1 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.1 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Golden Fleece York
0.1 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Plonkers
0.2 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 Fossgate Social
0.2 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Blue Bell
0.2 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
0.2 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Pivní York
0.3 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.
Tank & Paddle York
0.3 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Vudu Lounge
0.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.3 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
0.4 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
0.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.9 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.3 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.0 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 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
34.9 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
34.9 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
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.0 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
- Scenic
- Educational
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly