Walking tours in York are the perfect introduction to England’s best-preserved medieval city. The guided experiences are efficient, informative, and reasonably priced, typically ranging from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
The Medieval Wall tours stand out for their spectacular views and expert commentary on York’s defensive history, while the Ghost Tours after dark bring spine-tingling tales to life in the city’s atmospheric alleyways. For history buffs, the Roman York tours showcase remarkable archaeological sites and ruins often missed by casual visitors.
These tours are expertly guided, and guides welcome questions while maintaining a brisk walking pace. Let’s look at our favorite York walking tours.
Good To Know
- The City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour provides a comprehensive 2-hour overview of York’s storied past from Celtic roots to Gothic architecture.
- The Dark Chronicles Guided Walking Tour offers a 1.5-hour exploration of the city’s sinister history, revealing tales of betrayal, plague, and murder.
- The 1-Hour Small Group Evening Walking Tour immerses visitors in York’s haunted past through dimly lit alleyways and spine-tingling supernatural tales.
- The Women Witches Warriors Adult Storytelling Walking Tour blends fact and fiction for a 1.5-hour guided ghost walk highlighting remarkable women in York’s history.
- The Heart of York Walking City Tour provides a 1.5-hour tour covering key landmarks and historical sites in the city center.
York: Phone-Guided Christmas Food Walking Tour With Tastings
For a delightful exploration of York’s Christmas food scene, the Phone-Guided Christmas Food Walking Tour with Tastings is a must-try. This 75-minute experience allows visitors to discover the city’s festive culinary delights through a self-guided audio tour.
Guests will learn about the history and traditions behind York’s seasonal treats, from mulled wine to gingerbread, while stopping for tastings at local shops and cafes. With a 4.7 rating, this tour offers a unique and flavorful way to take in York’s yuletide atmosphere. Whether a foodie or simply seeking a memorable holiday activity, this walking tour provides a delicious and informative glimpse into the city’s cherished Christmas customs.
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York: City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour
On the City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour, visitors can enjoy the rich history, myths, and legends of York. Led by a live guide, the 2-hour walking tour showcases the city’s top sights, from the medieval city walls to the iconic York Minster.
Guests will discover York’s storied past, from its Celtic roots to its Gothic architecture. Along the way, they’ll learn the true history of landmarks like Clifford’s Tower and the Shambles, and uncover the city’s hidden gems off the beaten path.
Priced at $15.14 per person, this highly-rated tour is a must for anyone seeking an engaging and informative exploration of York’s captivating heritage.
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York: Dark Chronicles Guided Walking Tour
Visitors seeking a darker side of York’s storied past can embark on the Dark Chronicles Guided Walking Tour. This 1.5-hour tour takes small groups through the city, unraveling tales of betrayal, plague, and murder. Led by a live guide, the tour is suitable for ages 5 and up and operates in all weather conditions, with dogs welcome.
Highlights include the fate of plague victims, a murder at the college, and insights into chilling torture techniques. The tour leaves from outside the Golden Lion on Church Street, and participants are advised to arrive at least 10 minutes early. While no guarantees are made about encountering ghosts, the tour promises a captivating exploration of York’s sinister history.
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York: 1-Hour Small Group Evening Walking Tour
Amidst the historic charm of York, the 1-Hour Small Group Evening Walking Tour invites visitors to uncover the city’s captivating secrets after dark. With a 4.9 out of 5 rating and 645 reviews, this small group experience promises an immersive journey through York’s haunted past.
Led by knowledgeable guides, guests will explore dimly lit alleyways, hear spine-tingling tales of the supernatural, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s dark history. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply curious about York’s haunted heritage, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the city in a whole new light.
Don’t miss the chance to discover York’s eerie wonders after the sun goes down.
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York: Women Witches Warriors Adult Storytelling Walking Tour
For those eager to explore York’s captivating history, the “Women Witches Warriors Adult Storytelling Walking Tour” offers a spellbinding experience. This one-woman performance introduces visitors to the remarkable women of York, blending fact and fiction for a guided ghost walk.
Over 1.5 hours, guests will learn about Celtic Queen Cartimandua, Roman Empress Julia Domna, the Ivory Bangle Lady, and other inspiring figures, including the famed “Gentleman Jack,” Anne Lister. The tour also explores York’s Red Light District and the tragic story of Jennet Preston. Rated 15+ for mature themes, this immersive experience is a must for those seeking to uncover the hidden histories of York’s remarkable women.
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York: Private Guided Walking Tour
Those seeking to uncover York’s captivating history can embark on a private guided walking tour. This 2-hour experience offers the chance to skip the ticket lines and explore the city’s medieval streets and snickelways with a live, English-speaking guide.
Highlights include witnessing 2,000 years of history, from Roman fortresses to Tudor influences, as well as wandering through the Shambles, the original inspiration for Diagon Alley. For a group of up to 8 people, the tour is priced at $189.30 and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With the option of wheelchair accessibility, this private tour provides an immersive and personalized way to explore York’s rich past.
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York: Private Bespoke History Walking Tour
Embarking on a private bespoke history walking tour in York allows visitors to delve deep into the city’s captivating past. This 3-hour tour showcases the iconic landmarks, from the stunning York Minster to the ancient city walls and gatehouses. Guests will uncover the city’s Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Viking, and Norman legacies, exploring grand churches, palaces, and the ruined St. Mary’s Abbey.
The highlight is the breathtaking views from Clifford’s Tower. Led by a knowledgeable guide in English, French, or German, the tour is wheelchair accessible and can be customized to suit individual preferences. Priced from CZK 3,629 for groups of up to 30 people, this private walking tour offers an immersive historical experience in the heart of York.
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York Private Guided Walking Tour
Discover York’s captivating history on this private guided walking tour. Explore the city’s Roman legacy, Saxon rule, and Viking invasions that shaped the medieval age. Trace York’s path to a kingdom, witnessing William the Conqueror’s impact and the city’s resilience during the Scottish Wars.
Admire the stunning York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in northern Europe, and stroll through the charming Shambles, a medieval street lined with timber-framed buildings. Venture into the Merchant Adventurers Hall, a 14th-century guild hall, and learn about the Viking era at the JORVIK Viking Centre. With a local professional guide and possible customization, this 1.5-hour private tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts visiting York.
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York: Vikings, Romans, and Normans Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy York’s captivating past on this guided walking tour exploring the city’s Roman, Viking, and Norman legacies. Uncover the stories behind York’s iconic landmarks, like Clifford’s Tower and the York Minster, as you explore the city’s rich history.
Marvel at the ancient Roman walls and Viking-era artifacts that have stood the test of time. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will bring the city’s past to life, shedding light on how these influential civilizations shaped York’s cultural heritage.
With a 4.7 rating and lasting 70 minutes, this immersive tour offers an engaging and insightful way to experience York’s multifaceted history.
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Exclusive York – Private Personally-Designed Walking Tour
For travelers seeking a personalized and exclusive exploration of York, the “Exclusive York – Private Personally-Designed Walking Tour” offers the perfect solution.
This private walking tour allows you to uncover the city’s famous sights and secret corners at your own pace, away from the crowds. You’ll see medieval landmarks like the Shambles and York Minster, and receive a complementary map of the city. The tour also features multimedia illustrations to enhance your understanding of the history.
With a flexible meeting place, the tour can start from your hotel, a city center restaurant, or the central library. Accessible by wheelchair and near public transportation, this tour is suitable for most travelers.
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The Heart of York Walking City Tour
The Heart of York Walking City Tour offers travelers an engaging and informative stroll through the historic heart of England’s ancient city. This 1.5-hour tour, operated by Heart of York Tours, departs from the William Etty Statue in Exhibition Square and ends at the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate.
Along the way, you will discover the city’s rich history and architecture, with a maximum of 20 travelers per tour. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. With 100% recommendation from past travelers, the Heart of York Walking City Tour is an excellent way to explore the highlights of this charming destination.
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Private York Christmas Walking Tour
Although the city of York is enchanting year-round, the Private York Christmas Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience its festive cheer. This 2-hour private walking tour is ideal for families and first-time visitors, exploring top attractions like York Minster and The Shambles.
A local guide will share insider tips and the city’s 2,000-year-old history, allowing you to soak up the festive atmosphere. The tour starts at the Roman Column outside York Minster, with pickup from your hotel or an alternative location available. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the start.
This personalized experience is a great way to discover York during the Christmas season.
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York Walls Private Walking Tour
Explore York’s captivating 13th-century city walls on a private walking tour. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the historic city as you stroll along the medieval fortifications. The bespoke tour can be customized to include visits to The Shambles, York Minster, or York Castle.
With a private guide, you’ll receive personalized attention and insights. The tour starts and ends at the Roman Column outside York Minster, with hotel pickup and drop-off available for city center hotels. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
With 138 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this tour is the perfect way to discover York’s iconic landmarks.
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York City Chronicles History Walking Tour
York City Chronicles History Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich past. Spanning approximately 1.5 hours, this 3-4 km walking tour is recommended by 94% of travelers.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers York’s key landmarks, including the iconic York Minster. At £6-£17 per person, it’s an affordable way to uncover the city’s fascinating history. The tour departs promptly from the Statue of Constantine, so it’s important to arrive 10 minutes early.
While museums and attractions aren’t included, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers. With a maximum group size of 30, this walking tour provides an intimate and engaging experience.
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Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York
The Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York takes visitors on a delightful exploration of the city’s festive history and traditions. This 90-minute tour, led by a professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide, showcases York’s beloved Christmas highlights.
Guests will discover the city’s yuletide past, admire the twinkling lights and bustling markets, and enjoy the cozy, festive atmosphere. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum group size of 25 travelers.
Conveniently starting outside York Minster and ending on Parliament Street, the experience is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing it. Booking is straightforward, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
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For those seeking an engaging and comprehensive introduction to York, the Shared Walking Tour offers an excellent option. With over 264 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this 4-hour tour provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s history and sights.
The tour is tailored to the interests of the group and follows a flexible itinerary, allowing participants to discover the highlights that pique their curiosity. Conveniently located near the iconic York Minster, the meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly.
While not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, the tour’s maximum of 20 travelers ensures a personalized experience.
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York Witches and History Walking Tour
Stepping back in time, this 90-minute walking tour immerses participants in York’s captivating witching history. Led by an entertaining character guide, the tour starts at the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate and winds up at the famous Shambles street. Along the way, travelers will explore York’s haunting past, learning about the city’s witching traditions.
With 235 reviews and a 94% traveler recommendation, this tour is a must for anyone interested in the supernatural. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
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York 4-Hour Photography Walking Tour
Budding photographers and travelers alike flock to the York 4-Hour Photography Walking Tour, an immersive experience that blends the city’s rich history with hands-on photographic guidance. Offered by York Photo Walks, the tour provides an intimate group setting of no more than six participants, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.
Along the way, attendees enjoy coffee/tea and a lunch break, all while capturing the architectural gems and scenic vistas of York. The tour covers key locations like the York Art Gallery and Museum Gardens, with the meeting point at the former and the end point at the latter.
Whether a novice or seasoned shutterbug, this walking tour promises an unforgettable artistic adventure.
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York Small-Group Evening Walking Tour With Guide
As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors to York are invited on a captivating Small-Group Evening Walking Tour that unveils the city’s medieval charm. This 4-hour excursion explores the Minster, City Walls, and the famous Shambles, while delving into the hidden “Snickelways” – secret passages and alleys.
Guides enhance the experience with multimedia illustrations on their iPads, and travelers receive a complementary map of York. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate exploration of this historic city.
With 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this evening walk is a must for those seeking to enjoy York’s captivating medieval atmosphere.
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Private Historical Walking Tour of York
Visitors seeking a more intimate exploration of York’s captivating history can embark on a Private Historical Walking Tour. With over 1,297 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this private tour offers a personalized experience led by a professional guide.
Pickup is available from various locations within walking distance of the city center, and the tour ends near Clifford’s Tower and the Castle Museum. Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, the tour is wheelchair accessible and operates in all weather conditions.
Priced at $181.53 per group (up to 15 participants), the tour provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
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The Sum Up
York offers a range of walking tours that cater to different interests, from Christmas food tastings to dark historical chronicles. Whether you’re seeking a small-group evening stroll, a photographic exploration, or a deep dive into the city’s witches and warriors, there’s a walking tour in York to suit your preferences and provide an engaging and immersive experience.