York City Walls: England’s Longest Medieval Ramparts
Explore England’s longest medieval town walls, offering stunning panoramic views and a journey through York’s rich 2,000-year history.
York City Walls, the longest medieval town walls in England, offer a 3.4 km elevated walkway around York’s historic centre. Dating mainly from the 13th century, these beautifully preserved walls provide panoramic views of landmarks such as York Minster and the River Ouse. Visitors can explore fortified gateways, towers, and enjoy a unique perspective on over 2,000 years of York’s urban history. The walls are free to access year-round, with safety inspections and occasional weather-related closures.
A brief summary to York City Walls
- Unnamed Road, York, YO1 7LJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the wall walk includes uneven surfaces and multiple staircases.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for quieter experiences and beautiful light for photography.
- Check the City of York Council website for any weather-related closures before planning your walk.
- Bring sun protection in summer and warm layers in colder months due to the exposed nature of the walkway.
- Explore nearby attractions like Museum Gardens, York Castle Museum, and Clifford’s Tower to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From York Train Station, a 15-20 minute walk leads you to the nearest access points of the City Walls. The route is mostly flat but includes some stairs at entry points. Train fares vary depending on origin but typically range from £10-£50 within the UK.
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Bus
Local bus services such as the number 12 or 13 connect York city centre with stops near the City Walls, including Tower Street and Station Road. Buses run frequently, with journeys lasting 10-20 minutes and fares around £2-£4 per trip.
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Car and Walk
Parking is available at Q-Park Shambles and other city centre car parks within a 5-10 minute walk of the walls. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Walking from car parks to the walls involves navigating some cobbled streets.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the City Walls is ideal. The circuit itself takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a moderate pace. The walk includes uneven surfaces and stairs, so it is suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.
York City Walls location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about York City Walls
Enduring Medieval Fortifications Encircling York
York City Walls stand as a testament to nearly two millennia of urban defense and development. Constructed primarily in the 13th century atop earlier earthworks, the walls form a continuous circuit approximately 3.4 kilometers long, making them the longest medieval town walls in England. Their strategic design includes fortified gateways known as ‘bars’—notably Bootham, Monk, and Micklegate Bars—along with numerous towers, arrow slits, and musket loops that reflect evolving military architecture from medieval through Tudor periods. The walls have witnessed significant historical events, including military actions during the English Civil War, and today they are a protected Grade I listed Scheduled Ancient Monument.A Walk Offering Panoramic Vistas and Historical Insight
The elevated walkway atop the walls provides visitors with sweeping panoramic views of York’s skyline, including the iconic York Minster, the winding River Ouse, and charming historic neighborhoods. The circuit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, with multiple access points via stone staircases. Along the route, informative plaques and QR codes guide visitors through the rich history and architectural details, enhancing the experience. The walls’ varying elevation and narrow passages require comfortable footwear and moderate fitness, while some sections feature safety railings and others have unguarded drops, necessitating caution, especially with children.Seasonal Access and Conservation Efforts
York City Walls are open daily from 8:30 am until dusk, free of charge, and are maintained by the City of York Council. Regular safety inspections occur each morning, and the walls close temporarily during icy, snowy, or windy conditions to ensure visitor safety. Conservation work, including ongoing restoration at key sites like Bootham Bar, preserves the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the walls. The surrounding grassy slopes are known for seasonal displays of daffodils and wildflowers, adding natural beauty to the historic environment.Nearby Attractions and Complementary Experiences
The walls are conveniently situated near several of York’s major attractions. Adjacent to Bootham Bar are the Museum Gardens and the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, while the southeastern section lies close to York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower. The walls themselves serve as a unique vantage point for photography and sightseeing, offering perspectives not visible from street level. Visitors can also explore the Red Tower community hub and enjoy nearby cafés such as the Walmgate Bar Gatehouse Coffee.Visitor Considerations and Accessibility
While the walls provide a captivating historical experience, they are not wheelchair or pushchair accessible due to narrow walkways and steps. Dogs are prohibited except for assistance animals. The circuit’s exposed nature means visitors should prepare for weather variations, including sun protection in summer and warm clothing in colder months. Supervision of young children is essential given some unguarded sections. For those unable to walk the walls, ground-level routes and detailed guide maps are available to appreciate York’s defensive heritage.Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
The Friends of York Walls actively promote awareness and enjoyment of the walls through online guides, audio trails, and special events. The walls remain a vibrant symbol of York’s identity, connecting residents and visitors alike with the city’s layered history. They also serve as a venue for occasional cultural events and filming, reflecting their ongoing role in the life of the city beyond their original defensive purpose.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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
