What You Will Do
Embark on an enchanting journey through the city of York!
The tour lets you in on the city's secrets and stories as you traverse its historic streets. This self-guided tour is ideal for those who are in York for a day and want to get a taste of everything that York has to offer while having the freedom to linger and dive deeper into the sites that capture their interest. Designed with insights from local historians, the tour spans just over 3 kilometers and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Start your adventure at the St Mary’s Abbey, then climb on top of the wall, pass by the York Minster, wander through the snickelways and ramble along The Shambles, one of England’s most picturesque streets. Listen to ghost stories at a traditional York pub before concluding your tour at the imposing Clifford’s Tower . Along the way, learn about York's rich history, from its Roman roots to its medieval importance and Viking history. Pause to shop or enjoy a bite at one of the many quaint eateries.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
This is a self-guided audio tour. Start the tour at your convenience from the designated starting point using your phone. You will need to download the "Tourific self guided tours" app. Links and tour codes will be sent in a separate email by Tourific Self Guided Tours with detailed instructions.
1
St. Mary's Abbey
5 minutes
Discover York's rich history as you journey from its Roman roots to its vibrant present, uncovering the stories behind ancient walls, Viking power, medieval grandeur, and the echoes of the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Explore the remnants of St. Mary's Abbey and learn how history's tides have shaped this remarkable city.
2
Yorkshire Museum
Find out what hidden treasures are on display at the Yorkshire Museum
3
Multangular Tower
5 minutes
Explore the fascinating Multangular Tower, a twelve-sided Roman relic transformed in medieval times, revealing layers of history from ancient fortifications to medieval defenses.
4
King's Manor
Discover the dramatic transformation of an abbey into the King's Manor during Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries, and explore a fascinating historical comparison to Brexit
5
Bootham Bar
5 minutes
Discover the medieval gates of York, known as "bars," and learn about their historical role as toll booths and barriers.
6
Robin Hood Tower
5 minutes
Pause at Robin Hood's Tower to uncover the fascinating history of York's city walls, from Georgian romantic ruins to a public campaign for preservation. Learn about the legal battles and local efforts that transformed these ancient barriers into the charming walkways we enjoy today.
7
Monk Bar
5 minutes
Discover how this historic bar also served as a home and a site for public proclamations.
8
Treasurer's House
Discover the opulent lifestyle of York's elite and hear about the famous sightings of spectral Roman soldiers and other hauntings within this storied mansion.
9
Statue of Constantine the Great
5 minutes
Discover the modern sculpture of Constantine, commemorating his proclamation as Emperor in York in AD 306 and his legalization of Christianity.
10
York Minster
Marvel at York Minster, a towering masterpiece of Gothic and medieval architecture, reflecting centuries of craftsmanship and spiritual significance. Discover its stunning exterior and pause the tour if you wish to enter.
11
Stonegate
5 minutes
Explore Stonegate, a bustling shopping street atop an ancient Roman road, and discover its historical significance from the Minster's construction to its prestigious Viking and Norman past.
12
5 minutes
Discover the chilling tale of Mad Alice, whose ghostly visage is said to haunt this snickleway, once known as Mad Alice Lane.
13
Shambles
5 minutes
Explore Shambles, a beautifully preserved medieval street known for its narrow lanes, timber-framed buildings, and rich history as York's primary butcher area. Explore unique shops, enjoy the charming atmosphere, and discover historical sites like the shrine of St. Margaret Clitherow.
14
5 minutes
Pause at the Golden Fleece, York's most haunted pub, where over 15 spirits, including Lady Alice Peckett and One Eyed Jack, are said to roam.
15
Hear the stories of the 14th-century Merchant Adventurers' Hall
16
Find out more about Vikings and their history in York.
17
York Castle Museum
Know more about the York Castle museum
18
Clifford's Tower
End the tour by getting to know more about the Clifford's Tower.
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