York City Walls
England's longest medieval walls: a free 3.4km elevated circuit through 2,000 years of history.
Walk the longest medieval town walls in England on this spectacular 3.4-kilometre elevated circuit around York's historic centre. Free to access and open daily from 8am to dusk, the beautifully preserved walls offer panoramic views of York Minster, the River Ouse, and centuries of architectural heritage. Pass through ancient gatehouses, quirky towers, and charming information plaques while discovering over 2,000 years of urban history visible in stone.
A brief summary to York City Walls
- York, YO1 7LJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit just before dusk for a peaceful, less-crowded experience with dramatic lighting across the city skyline and historic stonework.
- Wear sturdy, weather-appropriate footwear with good grip; sections are narrow with unguarded drops, and winter ice can make surfaces treacherous.
- Check closure status before visiting in winter or bad weather by calling 01904 551550 (Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm) or visiting the City of York Council website.
- Allow 2–3 hours minimum for the full circuit; longer if you pause at gatehouses, towers, and viewpoints or explore nearby attractions like the Castle Museum.
- Bring a camera or smartphone; the walls offer exceptional photo opportunities of York Minster, the River Ouse, and hidden gardens visible only from this elevated vantage point.
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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Train
York Train Station is approximately 800 metres south of the walls. From the station forecourt, walk north along Tower Street for 10 minutes, then follow signs toward the city centre. The nearest wall access is Fishergate Bar, reached by continuing north and turning left onto Fishergate. Journey time from station to walls: approximately 15 minutes on foot. Alternatively, local buses serve the city centre; journey time 5–10 minutes depending on route. Train services run frequently from major UK cities including London King's Cross (approximately 2 hours), Manchester (approximately 1.5 hours), and Edinburgh (approximately 2.5 hours).
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Bus
Multiple bus services operate within York city centre, with stops near all major wall access points. Local buses connect the city centre to Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts, where parking is available at approximately £4–6 per day. Journey time from Park and Ride to city centre: approximately 15–20 minutes. City centre buses run frequently throughout the day; single fares typically range from £1.50–3 depending on distance. The wall circuit has multiple access points, so you can hop on and off buses to explore different sections.
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Car and Parking
York city centre has limited on-street parking; multi-storey car parks are the primary option. Q-Park Shambles (Garden Place, York YO1 7NT) is centrally located near multiple wall access points; typical rates are £2–3 per hour or £8–12 for all-day parking. Park and Ride facilities on the city outskirts offer cheaper all-day parking (approximately £4–6) with frequent shuttle buses to the centre. Driving time from surrounding areas: approximately 20–30 minutes from Leeds, 45 minutes from Manchester, 1 hour from Sheffield. Note: the wall circuit itself is not accessible by vehicle; parking must be used for the entire visit.
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Walking from City Centre
If staying in York city centre, the walls are accessible within a 5–15 minute walk from most hotels and attractions. Multiple access points are distributed around the circuit, including Bootham Bar (near York Minster), Monk Bar (near the Shambles shopping area), Walmgate Bar (near Clifford's Tower), and Fishergate Bar (near the railway station). The entire 3.4-kilometre circuit can be walked in approximately 1–2 hours at a steady pace, or 2–3 hours with stops to enjoy views and explore gatehouses.
York City Walls location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about York City Walls
A Living Timeline in Stone
York's City Walls represent one of England's most complete medieval defensive systems, stretching 3.4 kilometres in an unbroken circuit around the city centre. Built primarily in the 13th century from magnesian limestone and uniquely set on earthen ramparts, these walls are the longest intact medieval town walls in the entire country. Yet their story extends far deeper: significant remains from all principal periods of development are visible here, making the walls themselves a tangible chronicle spanning over 2,000 years of York's transformation from Roman settlement to medieval powerhouse to modern city.The Elevated Experience
Walking the walls is an entirely different perspective on York. The elevated walkway, accessed via steps at multiple points around the city, lifts you above street level into a realm where you observe the city from the vantage point of its medieval defenders. From this height, you gain unobstructed panoramic views of York Minster's soaring Gothic towers, the meandering River Ouse, hidden gardens and courtyards, and the layered roofscape of centuries of architecture. The walk typically takes two hours to complete at a leisurely pace, though many visitors spend considerably longer pausing to absorb views, examine historical details, and explore the numerous gatehouses and towers encountered along the route.Gateways, Towers, and Architectural Treasures
The walls are punctuated by four principal gatehouses—known locally as 'bars'—each a fortified structure with its own character and history. Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar served as the city's main entry points and remain impressive examples of medieval military architecture. Beyond these major gates lie two lesser bars and a postern tower, along with numerous other defensive structures including the distinctive Red Tower, the only brick-built section of the walls. Arrow slits, musket loops, sculptures, and masons' marks dot the stonework, each telling stories of the craftspeople and soldiers who built and defended these ramparts. Some sections feature continuous railings providing security, while other stretches retain their original unguarded drops of 1.5 to 2.5 metres, preserving the authentic medieval experience.Access and Seasonal Variations
The walls are open daily from 8am, closing at dusk—a time that varies dramatically throughout the year, from 3:30pm in January to 9pm in June and July. This free access is maintained year-round except on Christmas Day and during periods when weather conditions render the walkway unsafe. In winter, the walls are inspected each morning at 7am at three key locations to assess ice, wind, and slippery conditions; if unsafe underfoot, the entire circuit remains closed for the day. Multiple access points around the city ensure you're never far from the walls, and a ground-level trail marked with brass pavement studs provides an alternative route when the elevated walkway is closed, passing through the Museum Gardens where Roman walls and the Multangular Tower showcase even earlier defensive structures.Discovering Hidden York
Beyond the walls themselves lies a constellation of attractions accessible from the circuit. The Richard III Experience at Monk Bar explores the controversial king's life, while Micklegate Bar hosts the Henry VII Experience. The Castle Museum nearby offers immersive exhibits including a recreated Victorian street and insights into York's prison history. Red Tower functions as a community hub, and Walmgate Bar Gatehouse serves as a charming café. Fishergate Postern Tower opens to the public on selected dates throughout the year. The Friends of York Walls provide detailed online guides, maps, and an audio trail app, enriching the experience with curated historical context and local knowledge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sundial Column
0.2 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.
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 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.
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 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.
The Stonebow
0.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.4 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.
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.
Medieval Walls
0.4 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.5 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Foss Fairy Trail
0.5 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Petergate House
0.5 km
Discover the historic Petergate House and York Oratory, where Georgian elegance meets vibrant Catholic heritage in the heart of York.
York Oratory
0.5 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
Unmissable attractions to see
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.0 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
Monk Bar
0.1 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
The Golden Slipper
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
Bedern Hall
0.1 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Snickleway Inn
0.2 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
St Anthonys Garden
0.2 km
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
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.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.2 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.2 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
Peasholme Grn
0.2 km
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
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.
York
0.2 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
The Black Swan
0.2 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
Minster Yard
0.3 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Essential places to dine
Little Italy
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Arras
0.2 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Wildwood
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Forest
0.3 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Fat Hippo York
0.3 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Côte York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
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.
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.
Los Moros
0.4 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Shop
0.1 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.
Cleggs
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.1 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.2 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
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.
SOCTOPUS
0.3 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
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.
The Cat Gallery
0.3 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
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.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
0.3 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
0.1 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.3 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Evil Eye
0.4 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
The Blue Bell
0.4 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
0.4 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Golden Fleece York
0.4 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.4 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Fossgate Social
0.4 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
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.
Eagle & Child
0.5 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.5 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
0.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.8 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.9 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.9 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.9 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.
PRYZM
35.5 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
