The Tyburn: York’s Historic Execution Site on the Knavesmire
A solemn stone on York’s Knavesmire marks centuries of public executions and justice’s harsh history.
The Tyburn in York marks the site of the city’s medieval gallows, where public executions took place from 1379 until 1801. Located on the Knavesmire, this small monument commemorates the grim history of justice and punishment, including the hanging of infamous figures like highwayman Dick Turpin. Today, a solitary stone stands as a silent reminder of the hundreds who met their fate here, offering visitors a poignant glimpse into York’s darker past.
A brief summary to The Tyburn
- 286 Tadcaster Rd York, York, YO24 1ET, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring comfortable shoes and a good imagination to fully appreciate the historical significance of this modest monument.
- Visit nearby York Racecourse and other historic sites on the Knavesmire for a fuller experience of the area.
- Consider reading about notable figures like Dick Turpin before visiting to enrich your understanding of the site.
- The site is outdoors and exposed, so dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus routes 3A, 12, 14, or 29 to the Pulleyn Drive stop, which is within a short walking distance of The Tyburn. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a typical journey time from York city centre of 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4 one way.
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Walking
From York city centre, a pleasant walk along Tadcaster Road will take about 25 to 30 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through residential areas and offering views of the Knavesmire. Suitable for most fitness levels.
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Taxi
Local taxis can take you directly to The Tyburn from anywhere in York, with journey times of around 10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £12.
The Tyburn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Tyburn
A Grim Landmark on York’s Knavesmire
The Tyburn was established in 1379 as the principal site for public executions in York, situated on the open expanse of the Knavesmire. For over four centuries, this location was synonymous with capital punishment, where the condemned were brought to face justice in a public spectacle. The gallows, known as the "Three-Legged Mare," was a distinctive wooden structure with three legs, symbolizing the execution site’s notoriety. The first recorded hanging was that of Private Edward Hewison in March 1379, while the last execution occurred in August 1801. The site’s name derives from Old English, meaning "place of elms," referencing the elm wood used to build the gallows and its association with mortality.Public Spectacle and Social Context
Executions at the Tyburn were major public events, drawing large crowds from across the city. The condemned were often paraded from York Castle to the gallows, a journey of about a mile, during which they carried their own coffins and were subject to jeers or sympathy from onlookers. These grim processions served as both punishment and deterrent, reinforcing the authority of the law. The Tyburn executions were part of a broader culture of public justice in medieval and early modern England, where capital punishment was as much about spectacle and social order as about retribution.Notorious Figures and Final Moments
Among those executed at the Tyburn was the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin, whose legend has endured in English folklore. The site also saw political prisoners, rebels, and common criminals meet their end. The executions were often accompanied by a mix of solemnity and rowdiness, with some spectators treating the event as a morbid form of entertainment. The Tyburn’s use declined as public attitudes shifted and executions were moved closer to the city courts near Clifford’s Tower for convenience and to reduce the spectacle.The Tyburn’s Legacy Today
Today, The Tyburn is marked by a solitary stone monument on Tadcaster Road, near York Racecourse, providing a quiet place for reflection on this somber chapter of York’s history. The surrounding Knavesmire fields, once filled with crowds, now offer a tranquil contrast to the site’s violent past. Interpretive plaques and benches invite visitors to pause and imagine the events that unfolded here. Though the gallows are long gone, the Tyburn remains a potent symbol of justice, punishment, and the evolution of legal practices in York.Context within York’s Historic Landscape
The Tyburn’s location on the Knavesmire places it within a landscape rich with history and tradition. The nearby York Racecourse and other historic sites create a layered experience of the city’s past, blending leisure, memory, and heritage. The Tyburn stands as a reminder of the harsh realities of medieval justice amid the city’s more celebrated medieval architecture and cultural landmarks.Remembering Through Silence and Stone
While the Tyburn no longer functions as a site of execution, its presence challenges visitors to confront the realities of historical justice. The lone stone monument invites contemplation rather than celebration, marking a place where life and death were publicly negotiated. This quiet memorialization encourages a deeper understanding of York’s social history, the human stories behind the law, and the city’s journey through time.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Tyburn
0.0 km
A solemn stone on York’s Knavesmire marks centuries of public executions and justice’s harsh history.
Chalfont Bear
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Explore the historic beauty of Chalfont Bear in Dringhouses, York, a landmark that captures the essence of local heritage and picturesque surroundings.
Millennium Bridge
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Contemporary engineering meets riverside beauty—York's illuminated pedestrian bridge spanning the Ouse.
Historic England - York Office
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Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Ouse Bridge
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Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
St. Leonard's Hospital
1.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Olave's Church York
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Explore St Olave's Church in York, a stunning Anglican heritage site with rich history, exquisite architecture, and peaceful ambiance, perfect for tourists.
Roman Bath
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Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
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A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Anglian Tower
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Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Shambles Market
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Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
28 Shambles
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Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
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Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that unveils the city's enchanting history and captivating tales.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
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Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
York's Tansy Beetle Mural
1.2 km
A vibrant street art tribute in York celebrating the rare, shimmering green Tansy Beetle and its fragile riverside habitat.
Holgate Windmill
1.3 km
York’s last working 18th-century windmill, grinding flour atop a suburban hill with historic charm and panoramic city views.
Micklegate Bar
1.3 km
Step through Micklegate Bar, York’s iconic medieval gatehouse steeped in history, legends, and centuries of city defense.
Rowntree Park
1.4 km
Historic riverside park in York offering gardens, sports, wildlife, and a welcoming café for all ages and interests.
A Very Magical Adventure
1.4 km
Embark on a whimsical family-friendly magical quest through York’s historic streets at Jacobs Well.
Baile Hill
1.5 km
Explore Baile Hill, York’s serene Norman motte and bailey castle site with rich history and stunning views of York Minster.
The Ghost Bus Tours York
1.5 km
Experience the chilling tales of York's haunted history aboard The Ghost Bus Tours, a unique blend of entertainment and storytelling.
Miniature Railway
1.5 km
A charming miniature railway ride nestled within York’s National Railway Museum, blending family fun with historic railway heritage.
Pikeing Well
1.5 km
An 18th-century ornamental well by John Carr on York’s scenic New Walk, blending medieval stonework with historic riverside charm.
York Cold War Bunker
1.5 km
Explore York’s preserved Cold War bunker, a gripping museum revealing Britain’s nuclear defense history through authentic rooms and expert-led tours.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
1.6 km
Historic Victorian Gothic Revival bridge over the River Ouse, blending York’s past with scenic riverside charm and modern social spaces.
Skeldergate Bridge
1.6 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
National Railway Museum York
1.6 km
Explore Britain's rich railway heritage with iconic locomotives, interactive exhibits, and historic carriages at York's National Railway Museum.
Tower Gardens
1.6 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Hooting Owl Distillery York
1.7 km
York’s first city distillery: where craft gin, rum and vodka meet myth, magic and a touch of owl-inspired flair in a stylish bar-lounge.
Essential places to dine
Melton's Restaurant
1.1 km
An intimate York gem offering inventive Modern British tasting menus with expert wine pairings in a warm, unpretentious setting.
Delrio's Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
Partisan
1.4 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Skosh
1.4 km
Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
Kapadokya
1.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
1.6 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
The Rise
1.6 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
The Whippet Inn
1.7 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
The Olive Tree
1.7 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Corner Grill House
1.7 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Rustique Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
The Star Inn The City
1.8 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
1.9 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Bill's York Restaurant
1.9 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Treasures
1.6 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Greybear
1.6 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
York Souvenir's
1.7 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Dog & Bone Vintage
1.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.8 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Fenwick York
1.9 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
2.0 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
The Imaginarium
2.0 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
2.0 km
Discover a magical shopping experience at The Shop That Must Not Be Named in York, where fantasy and adventure come alive with enchanting gifts.
The Red House Antique Centre
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Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at The Red House Antique Centre, a must-visit destination for history lovers in York.
Cello by Collectables
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Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
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Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Expressions
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Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Gift Gallery
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Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Pride of York Souvenirs
2.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cross Keys
0.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dringhouses, York, blending hearty British fare, lively sports viewing, and a friendly local atmosphere.
York Tap
1.5 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
Jalou York
1.6 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Dyls
1.6 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Tank & Paddle York
1.7 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
The Maltings
1.7 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Plonkers
1.7 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.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
1.7 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
The Stone Roses Bar
1.8 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Revolution York
1.8 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Pitcher & Piano York
1.8 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
The Three Tuns
1.9 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.
Lendal Cellars
1.9 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
1.9 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Dusk
1.9 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
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Popworld York
1.6 km
York’s lively nightclub with five decades of pop hits, a unique revolving dancefloor, and a safe, fun party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
1.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Flares - York
1.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
1.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
1.9 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
2.5 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
31.6 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
32.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
32.8 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
33.0 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
33.0 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
33.2 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
33.2 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
