JORVIK Viking Centre: Immersive Journey into Viking-Age York
Step back 1,000 years to Viking-Age York with immersive sights, sounds, and artifacts at JORVIK Viking Centre in the city heart.
JORVIK Viking Centre in York offers an immersive experience that transports visitors back to 10th-century Viking-Age York. With a famous ride featuring sights, sounds, and authentic smells, plus state-of-the-art galleries displaying artifacts unearthed on site, it reveals the rich Viking heritage of the city. Located in the Coppergate Shopping Centre, JORVIK is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to JORVIK Viking Centre
- 19 Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT, GB
- +441904615505
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book your tickets online well in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully experience the immersive ride and explore the extensive artifact galleries.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking around museum exhibits after the ride.
- Prepare for authentic Viking smells during the ride—part of the immersive sensory experience.
- Wheelchair users must pre-book to ensure accessibility accommodations are arranged.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train and Walk
From York Train Station, it is approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk to JORVIK Viking Centre through York city centre. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors, with clear signage directing to Coppergate Shopping Centre where the attraction is located.
-
Bus
Local bus services run frequently to stops near York city centre. From there, JORVIK Viking Centre is a short walk of about 5 to 10 minutes. Bus tickets typically cost between £2 and £4 depending on the route and operator.
-
Car and Parking
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 vary, generally around £2 to £5 per hour. Walking from car parks to the Centre takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
JORVIK Viking Centre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about JORVIK Viking Centre
A Window into Viking-Age York
Step into the JORVIK Viking Centre and embark on a unique journey through time to the year AD 960. This world-renowned attraction is built on the actual archaeological site where some of the most remarkable Viking discoveries in modern times were made. Visitors experience a fully immersive ride through a meticulously reconstructed Viking city, complete with 360-degree views, authentic sights, sounds, and even the distinctive smells of the era. This sensory-rich journey vividly brings to life the daily lives of Viking inhabitants, from bustling market stalls to snow-dusted quaysides.Archaeological Treasures and Exhibits
Beyond the ride, the Centre houses state-of-the-art galleries showcasing a remarkable collection of artifacts excavated from the site. These include everyday objects, tools, and personal items that provide a tangible connection to the people who lived in Viking-Age York. The exhibition spaces are designed to engage visitors with interactive displays and knowledgeable staff dressed in period costume, who share stories and demonstrations that deepen the understanding of Viking culture and history.Innovative Visitor Experience
JORVIK Viking Centre has revolutionized heritage attractions by combining archaeological authenticity with cutting-edge technology. The addition of an interactive temporal portal allows visitors to glimpse the city’s past before boarding the time sleighs for the immersive ride. The Centre’s Ljósálfar—Norse elves—add a magical twist to the experience, enhancing the sense of wonder. The ride lasts about 20 minutes, but visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the entire attraction, including exhibits and interactive elements.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of York’s city centre within the Coppergate Shopping Centre, JORVIK Viking Centre is easily accessible on foot from York Train Station (about a 15-20 minute walk) and nearby landmarks like York Minster and York Castle Museum. The Centre provides accessible facilities including toilets and hearing-impaired accommodations, and wheelchair users are welcome with pre-booking. Visitors should note that pre-booking tickets online is essential to secure entry and preferred time slots.Seasonal Hours and Ticketing
JORVIK operates year-round with seasonal variations in opening times, generally from 9 or 10 am until 5 pm, with closures around Christmas. Tickets start at £17.50 for adults and £12 for children, with family packages available. Admission includes free return visits within 12 months, encouraging deeper exploration of York’s Viking heritage. The Centre’s ticketing system uses timed entry slots to manage visitor flow and enhance the experience.Engaging for All Ages
The Centre is designed to captivate visitors of all ages, making it a family-friendly destination. Children and adults alike can enjoy the vivid storytelling and immersive environments, making history accessible and exciting. The combination of archaeology, technology, and theatrical elements ensures a memorable visit that educates as well as entertains.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
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly