York Earth Walk

York, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (3 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Expert knowledge from our phd-qualified tour guides

Meeting Point

We start the York Earth Walk just inside Micklegate Bar, by the junction of Micklegate and Bar Lane.

Meeting point

148 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

We finish the York Earth Walk in York Museum Gardens, at the pebble mosaic next to the old bowling green, just north of the ruins of St Mary's Abbey.

Meeting point

Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York YO1 7FR , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Micklegate Bar

Starting at Micklegate Bar, the York Earth Walk then heads down Micklegate to hear the story of York's Fossil Doctor.

Duration 10 minutes
2
Ouse Bridge

From Micklegate we head towards the River Ouse, keeping an eye out for curious cobbles, and evidence of an icy landscape.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Spurriergate Centre

Is the Spurriergate Centre really upside-down? On the York Earth Walk we'll take a closer look.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4

Coney St

What's York's oldest building? And where can you put your hand on the Jurassic sea floor? Find out on Coney Street, on the York Earth Walk.

Duration 10 minutes
5

St. Helen's Square

At St Helen's Square, we'll learn about the microscopic Lister sisters. We might also find ourselves standing on the remains of a 440 million year-old volcano.

Duration 5 minutes
6

Stonegate

You can't really offer a York Earth Walk and not walk down Stonegate, especially when it was the home to a woman who was a star of early 20th century science.

Duration 10 minutes
7
York Minster

At York Minster Stoneyard, we'll see the stonemasons at work, learn what the ancient cathedral is made from, and discover some of the difficulties in keeping an enormous stone building from falling down.

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
8
St. Michael le Belfrey Church

Outside St Michael le Belfrey we'll see some of the rocky horrors that can afflict York's historic buildings. We might also find some fossils in the cobblestones...

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
9
York Oratory

What has Scottish granite got to do with the very first pope? Find out at St Wilfrid's, on the York Earth Walk!

Duration 5 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
10
Yorkshire Museum

Museum Gardens is home to the Yorkshire Museum, and on the York Earth Walk will seek out some of their most surprising treasures, from ice-skating granite to a giant fossil tree. And when our walk is finished, we strongly recommend going to see "Yorkshire's Jurassic World" in the Yorkshire Museum!

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by York's Hidden History Walks

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit the Yorkshire Museum post-tour
  • icon
    Try coffee at Brew & Brownie nearby
  • icon
    Check out fossils at St. Michael le Belfrey
  • icon
    Look for unique cobblestones along Ouse Bridge
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    Plan your walk for a sunny day!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the captivating journey through time with the York Earth Walk tour. This immersive tour takes you deep into the prehistory of York, as expert guides unveil the city's hidden Ice Age landscape, introduce you to its scientific pioneers, and reveal fossils embedded in cobblestones. Each step will transport you back in time, offering a unique perspective on the rich history of this enchanting city. With the York Earth Walk, you'll also have the opportunity to stride across the entire county of Yorkshire in just a few seconds, as you visit the remarkable pebble mosaic known as The Map That Changed The World.

What to expect?

Embark on the York Earth Walk and expect to be transported through time. This tour promises to take you on a fascinating journey into the prehistoric past of York. With expert knowledge from our PhD-qualified tour guide, you'll gain a deep understanding of the city's geological and historical significance. Discover the remnants of the Ice Age landscape that shaped York, marvel at the fossils embedded in cobblestones, and explore the oldest building in the city. The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to traverse the entire county of Yorkshire in mere seconds, immersing yourself in The Map That Changed The World pebble mosaic.

Who is this for?

The York Earth Walk tour is designed for curious travelers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned traveler seeking unique experiences or a local resident looking to uncover the hidden treasures of your own city, this tour is perfect for you. The captivating journey through time appeals to all ages and interests, making it an inclusive experience for everyone. If you have a keen interest in earth history, scientific discoveries, or simply enjoy exploring the secrets of ancient landscapes, the York Earth Walk tour is an ideal choice.

Why book this?

Explore the depths of York's history and embark on a remarkable journey through time with the York Earth Walk tour. This captivating experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the prehistory of York, uncovering its hidden secrets and forgotten stories. With expert guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, you'll gain a deep understanding of the city's geological significance and the scientific pioneers who shaped its history. The chance to witness fossils embedded in cobblestones and visit the oldest building in York adds an extra layer of intrigue to this immersive tour. Moreover, the highlight of the tour, The Map That Changed The World pebble mosaic, allows you to traverse the entire county of Yorkshire in a matter of seconds, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

Good to know

When booking the York Earth Walk tour, it's essential to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour takes place outdoors. The tour concludes in the beautiful York Museum Gardens, next to the old bowling green and the ruins of St Mary's Abbey. With its expert guides and PhD-qualified tour guide, this immersive journey through time promises to be a memorable and educational experience for all.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the York Earth Walk tour have been captivated by its immersive and educational nature. Many have praised the expert knowledge and passion of the guides, who bring the prehistory of York to life with their engaging storytelling. The opportunity to see fossils embedded in cobblestones and explore the oldest building in the city has left visitors in awe of York's rich history. The highlight of the tour, The Map That Changed The World pebble mosaic, has been described as a truly unique and mesmerizing experience. Overall, customers have expressed their satisfaction and gratitude for the captivating journey through time provided by the York Earth Walk tour.

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