York Saints and Sinners Private Walking Tour
York, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Discover the history of York through the eyes of those who shaped it
- Meet infamous kings, martyrs, terrorists, and artists
- Explore iconic landmarks and museums in York
- Learn about the intriguing lives and actions of saints and sinners
- Uncover the traces of York's fascinating past throughout the city
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Private Walking Tour
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Duration: 2 hours
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Hotel pickup included
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Expert Art Historian Guide
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Available in English and Spanish
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Wheelchair accessible
Experience the rich history of York on the Saints and Sinners Tour. Join Irene, an art historian and local resident, as she takes you on a captivating journey through the city. Discover the intriguing stories of the King, the Bishop, the Highwayman, the Chocolatier, the Martyr, the Terrorist, the Emperor, and the Artist who have shaped York's past. From infamous criminals to influential figures, uncover their lives and their impact on the city. Visit iconic landmarks such as Micklegate Bar and Clifford's Tower, and explore fascinating museums like York Castle Museum and Jorvik Viking Centre. Stroll along the famous Shambles and learn about York's most famous martyr. Marvel at the grandeur of York Minster and end the tour at Exhibition Square, where you will meet an artist whose life has both amazed and divided opinions. Join this enthralling tour and discover the saints and sinners who have left their mark on York.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Spanish; Castilian, English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore York's rich history with a private Saints and Sinners walking tour, led by an expert art historian in your preferred language.
Included
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Private tour -
Hotel pickup (by foot, city centre hotels only)
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Tour escort/host: art historian, background in museums and customer services.
Excluded
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Private transportation -
Food and drinks
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Entrance fees to historical attractions
Meeting Point
Go through Micklegate Bar if you are coming from outside the city walls, or stop just before it if you are coming from inside the walls. We meet at the corner of Bar Lane and Micklegate, just outside the pub "Micklegate Social".
148 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX , United Kingdom
End Point
We finish outside York Art Gallery (please note that a ticket to the gallery is not included).
Museum St, York YO1 7FR , United Kingdom
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Micklegate Bar
We will meet in front of Micklegate Bar, inside the city walls. There we will talk about the first of our "sinners": the most infamous king in English history... Was he a monster, or a hero? A murderer, or a pious man who did his duty?
10 minutes
Admission Not Included
Ouse Bridge
We will stand on Ouse Bridge, the place where our first saint performed an incredible miracle! It is also where another saint, whom we will talk about later on, was executed for her faith...
10 minutes
Clifford's Tower
Clifford's Tower is all that is left of York's Castle. For decades it was also part of York's prison, and its most famous inmate is our second sinner: the most well-known highwayman in England... Did he really ride from London to York in just one day!?
10 minutes
Admission Not Included
York Castle Museum
Once York's prison, today a wonderful museum of Yorkshire's social history from the 1500s to today.
Jorvik Viking Centre
A museum where you can go for a ride through an old Viking village and learn about York (Jorvik)'s past.
Parliament Street
We stop at the end of one of York's busiest shopping streets to look at the old house of our second "saint", whose name is synonymous with chocolate. But he didn't make people's lives sweeter only with his products; he also did so with his actions and beliefs.
10 minutes
Shambles
Arguably the most well-known street in the city, we will stop here to talk about York's most famous martyr: the butcher's wife who lived here and was executed on Ouse Bridge for her Catholic faith. *PLEASE NOTE* as Shambles is a very narrow street and usually very busy, we will take a detour instead of going up it. You can explore it at your leisure in your own time.
10 minutes
York's Chocolate Story
A fun museum where you can learn everything about York's chocolatey history, and even make a chocolate lolly yourself!
St. Michael le Belfrey Church
The church where our third sinner, the most famous terrorist of all time, was baptised. He could have changed the course of England's (and Europe's) history had he not been discovered. Remember, remember...
10 minutes
Statue of Constantine the Great
Our fourth and last "saint", Constantine the Great, was proclaimed emperor in York, where we can see his statue today. He changed the course of history and religion forever, but was he really a Christian himself..?
10 minutes
York Minster
The greatest landmark of the city of York is its magnificent Gothic minster, whose origins date back to the 7th century.
Exhibition Square
We finish our tour in Exhibition Square, a very appropriate name for the place where the York Art Gallery stands. Here we will meet our last "sinner": an artist whose life was shrouded in admiration and controversy in equal parts... And who saved the York walls from destruction.
10 minutes
York Art Gallery
Home of the CoCA (Centre of Ceramic Art), the biggest and most complete collection of British contemporary ceramics. It also has an extensive collection of paintings - most of which are not on display - and hosts temporary exhibitions periodically.
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
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Wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Try local chocolates near Parliament St. -
Visit York Minster after the tour.
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Explore the Shambles at your leisure.
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Check out nearby cafes for a break.
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Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to the Saints and Sinners Tour of York, a captivating journey through the city's rich history. This tour offers a unique perspective, exploring the lives of influential figures who shaped York into the vibrant place it is today. Led by Irene, an experienced art historian and local resident, you will delve into the stories of the King, the Bishop, the Highwayman, the Chocolatier, the Martyr, the Terrorist, the Emperor, and the Artist. Through their tales, you will gain a deeper understanding of York's past and discover hidden traces of these individuals throughout the city.What to expect?
During the Saints and Sinners Tour, you can expect a fascinating exploration of York's history and the characters who played significant roles in shaping the city. Irene, your knowledgeable guide, will share intriguing stories and insights, bringing the past to life. As you walk through the streets of York, you will uncover the secrets of these historical figures, discovering both their saintly and sinful sides. This tour promises to be an immersive and engaging experience, allowing you to connect with the city's past in a truly unique way.Who is this for?
The Saints and Sinners Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone looking to delve into the captivating stories that lie beneath the surface of York. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from afar, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city's history, appealing to a wide range of interests. Irene ensures that the tour is accessible and enjoyable for all, providing a welcoming environment for individuals and groups alike. Join this experience and embrace the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and lesser-known tales of York.Why book this?
This tour stands out as a truly immersive experience, led by Irene, a passionate art historian with a deep understanding of York's history. Her expertise and engaging storytelling will transport you back in time, allowing you to see the city through the eyes of those who shaped it. As you wander through the streets, you will feel a connection to the past, gaining a newfound appreciation for the saints and sinners who left their mark on York. This tour offers an opportunity to learn and be entertained simultaneously, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a unique and enriching experience.Good to know
Throughout the tour, Irene's extensive background in museums and customer services ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. You will have the chance to ask questions, interact with the guide, and gain a deeper understanding of York's history. Please note that the tour does not include entry to York Art Gallery, but it concludes outside the gallery, allowing you the option to continue your exploration independently. Wear comfortable shoes and come prepared for a leisurely walk through the city's enchanting streets.Reviews
Feedback from previous participants highlights the exceptional quality of the Saints and Sinners Tour. Travelers rave about Irene's captivating storytelling and the way she brings history to life. Many describe the tour as a highlight of their visit to York, praising the guides' knowledge and passion for the subject. Participants appreciate the opportunity to explore York's history in a fun and engaging way, with several remarking on the tour's ability to cater to a wide range of interests. Overall, the reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction and a desire to recommend this tour to others seeking an immersive and educational experience in York.
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