Walmgate Bar, York
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
Walmgate Bar is the most complete of York’s four medieval gatehouses, standing as the only one still with its original barbican, portcullis and inner doors. Dating back to the 12th century, this fortified gateway has withstood rebellions, fires and cannon fire, and today offers a rare glimpse into York’s defensive past. Inside, a small coffee house adds a modern, quirky twist, letting visitors sip a flat white beneath centuries-old stone arches and timber framing. It’s a must-see for history lovers and a perfect starting point for walking the famous York City Walls.
A brief summary to Walmgate Bar
- Foss Islands Rd, York, York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Step inside the gate to see the original portcullis and walk through the barbican – it’s the only surviving town gate barbican in England.
- Look for musket ball holes on the outer walls; they’re a striking reminder of the gate’s role in past conflicts.
- Grab a coffee or cake in the small café inside the gate – it’s a unique way to experience centuries of history.
- Use Walmgate Bar as a starting point to walk the York City Walls, especially the Monk Bar to Bootham Bar section for the most impressive views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from York city centre
From the city centre, follow the signs for the York City Walls and head east along the wall towards Walmgate Bar. The walk takes about 10–15 minutes along paved paths and quiet streets, with clear signage and information boards along the way.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serve stops near the Foss Islands Road area; from there, Walmgate Bar is a short, level walk of 5–10 minutes along well-maintained pavements, suitable for most visitors.
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From York railway station
From York station, take a local bus towards the city centre or Foss Islands Road, or walk via the city centre and along the City Walls route. The journey takes around 20–30 minutes depending on mode and pace, with frequent services and accessible routes available.
Walmgate Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Walmgate Bar
A Living Gatehouse Through the Ages
Walmgate Bar is the most intact of York’s four main medieval gatehouses, a layered monument that has evolved over centuries. Its oldest part is a 12th-century stone archway, later heightened and strengthened in the 14th century with the addition of a portcullis and a distinctive barbican. This outer defensive structure, a rare survivor on an English town gate, was designed to trap attackers in a narrow courtyard before the main gate, making Walmgate a formidable barrier in its day. The 15th-century oak doors and the 16th-century timber-framed building built into the gate itself reflect changing military needs and domestic life, blending martial and residential architecture in a single structure.Witness to York’s Turbulent History
The gate has seen its share of violence and upheaval. In 1489, rebels protesting tax increases set fire to Walmgate Bar, a dramatic episode that underscored its strategic importance. During the English Civil War, it withstood cannon bombardment in the 1644 siege of York, a testament to its robust construction. Repairs followed in 1648, and later restorations in the 19th and 21st centuries have preserved its form. Look closely at the outer walls and you may spot musket ball scars, silent reminders of past conflicts. For centuries, the gate also served as a grim stage for political power, with the severed heads of traitors once displayed on its battlements.The Only Surviving Town Gate Barbican
Walmgate Bar’s barbican is its most celebrated feature: the only surviving barbican on a town gate in England. This rare defensive element, combined with the original portcullis and inner doors, makes the gate a unique example of medieval military architecture. The gate’s position on the eastern approach to the city placed it on the main road to Hull, a route of major economic and strategic importance in the Middle Ages. Its survival, while other bars lost their barbicans or were heavily altered, gives visitors an unusually authentic sense of how a medieval city controlled and defended its entrances.From Fortress to Coffee House
Beyond its military role, Walmgate Bar has a rich domestic history. An Elizabethan house was built into the gate, extending over the passageway on stone Tuscan columns, and this structure was occupied as a dwelling until the 20th century. Today, that space houses a small, atmospheric coffee house, where visitors can enjoy a drink and cake within the medieval walls. This blend of ancient stone and modern comfort creates a uniquely York experience: sipping a flat white beneath centuries-old beams, with the city’s history literally surrounding you.Gateway to the City Walls
Walmgate Bar is one of the best access points to the York City Walls, a continuous circuit of medieval defences that ranks among the finest in England. Stepping through the gate, you can walk along the ramparts, enjoying views over the city and imagining the sentries who once kept watch here. The gate’s location near the Foss Islands Road area makes it a natural starting point for exploring both the walls and the surrounding historic streets. Whether you’re drawn by military history, architecture or simply a quiet coffee with a view, Walmgate Bar offers a tangible connection to York’s layered past.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
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St Crux
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Parliament St
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The York Ghost Merchants
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Ghost Hunt of York
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Ouse Bridge
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Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
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Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
York City Walls
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Pikeing Well
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Bedern Hall
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Roman Bath
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Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
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The York Cat Trail
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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
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Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
York Barbican
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York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
Red Tower
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Explore York’s only brick medieval watchtower, now a vibrant community hub blending history, culture, and social spirit.
Fishergate Bar
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Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
Dick Turpins grave
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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
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Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Brew York
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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
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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
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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
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Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Valhalla York
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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
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
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Pandora
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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
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A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Dyls
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The Blue Bell
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York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
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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
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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
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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
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York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Pivní York
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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
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
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Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Tank & Paddle York
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Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
