Sightseeing from York's City Walls

York, a city rich in history and charm, is perhaps best experienced through a leisurely walk around its ancient City Walls. 

This guide will take you on a journey through the most noteworthy spots along the City Walls, offering insider tips on off-wall attractions that cannot be missed. 

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to enjoy a scenic walk, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to York whilst knowing you have a stress-free journey there and back sorted with Grand Central.

How long is the City Walls walk?

The complete circuit around York's City Walls stretches approximately 3.4 kilometres and whilst it's possible to walk this distance in about an hour, taking your time to enjoy the views, historical sites and occasional stops and local pubs can easily turn this into a full-day adventure. 

The City Walls also offer a unique vantage point from which to view the city, providing glimpses of York's rich architectural heritage, including the famous York Minster.

Best breakfast in York near the City Walls

Before embarking on your walk, fuelling up with a substantial breakfast is wise. One of the best places to start your day is at Brew and Brownie on Museum Street. Renowned for its delectable all-day pancakes, this cosy café is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It's recommended to arrive early, as the place fills up quickly!

For those planning their visit, picking up a Rough Guide to York and a York Pop-Out map from local cafés or information points can be incredibly useful. These resources provide detailed information about the city's attractions and can help you navigate the City Walls and beyond.

The journey begins at Bootham Bar York

Begin exploring at Bootham Bar York, one of the four main gatehouses (or bars) in the city's defensive walls. In this case, a bar refers not to a place where drinks are served, but to a fortified gatehouse. 

These structures, some as large as several houses, were historically used as tollhouses and defensive positions. Bootham Bar, located near the De Grey Rooms, is an impressive starting point and offers an insight into York's medieval past.

Heading clockwise towards York Minster

As you walk clockwise from Bootham Bar, you'll soon find yourself overlooking the beer garden of the Fat Badger pub, with the majestic York Minster towering in the background. This iconic cathedral, with its intricate gothic architecture, dates back to the 13th century and while there's a fee to enter York Minster, the views from the City Walls are free and offer a fantastic perspective on this architectural marvel.

Continuing along the City Walls, you'll pass a variety of gardens and stately homes - including the picturesque grounds of York St John University on your left and the historic Treasurer's House on your right. Shortly after, you'll reach Monk Bar, another of the city's large gatehouses. This bar is home to the Richard III Experience, a museum dedicated to the controversial king's life and legacy. This can be visited with a joint ticket along with the Henry VII Experience at Micklegate Bar.

Navigating breaks in the City Walls and hidden gems

It is important to note that not all sections of York's City Walls are continuous. About ten minutes after Monk Bar, the City Walls break at a somewhat less picturesque road junction near a carpet store, but worry not; here, you can take a short detour, walking with a waterway on your right and a Halfords store on your left, before re-joining the City Walls at Red Tower.

After this brief intermission, the next notable stop is Walmgate Bar, which has been recently restored. This gatehouse is particularly charming as it houses Gatehouse Coffee, a delightful spot for a mid-walk coffee break.

Clifford's Tower and the Castle Museum

Moving on from Walmgate Bar, you'll pass the Barbican, a venue known for concerts and events, before reaching the site of York's former castle, Clifford's Tower. The old castle, managed by English Heritage, offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Even if you choose not to enter, the tower itself makes for a great photo opportunity.

Nearby, you can visit the York Army Museum which focuses on the city's military history, or the Castle Museum, a local favourite. The latter offers immersive exhibits including a recreation of a Victorian street and an exploration of York's historical prison system. It's an ideal place to spend a few hours, especially if the weather turns!

Discovering 'Bishy' Road and local delights

From the castle, cross the river via Skeldergate Bridge. Here, you can either re-join the City Walls or take a short detour into one of York's most beloved neighbourhoods, known locally as 'Bishy' Road. 

This charming area, once voted the Great British High Street of the Year, is filled with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. Some recommended stops include the Sicilian bistro, Trinacria, the popular Pig & Pastry café, and Robinsons, known for its excellent brunches. If you're in the mood for a drink, The Swan Pub offers a cosy spot to relax.

For those looking for accomodation, the Middletons Hotel on Skeldergate is conveniently located near the City Walls. This hotel also serves a delicious Sunday lunch and has a gym available for guests.

Experience life as a Tudor at Micklegate Bar

Re-joining the City Walls at the end of Skeldergate Bridge, you'll soon arrive at Micklegate Bar, another historic gatehouse. This bar houses the Henry VII Experience, which offers insights into the Tudor monarch's connection to the city.

If you didn't stop for lunch earlier, Micklegate Social offers a cosy place for a bite. Alternatively, Partisan, located further down the hill, is known for its excellent breakfast and lunch options. For a more upscale dining experience, consider Skosh, a renowned restaurant that requires booking in advance.

Continuing along the CIty Walls, you'll pass York's magnificent railway station on your left. A short ten-minute walk from the station leads to the National Railway Museum - a must-visit attraction for train enthusiasts of all ages!

Completing your tour at Museum Gardens York

Your journey along York's City Walls concludes with a stunning view of York Minster straight ahead. At Museum Gardens, you can relax with an ice cream under the remnants of St Mary's Abbey. This tranquil spot is perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.

The best time to visit York's City Walls and practical tips

York's City Walls are beautiful all year round! They are free to access and open daily from 8:00 AM until dusk, except on Christmas Day and when snow or ice makes them unsafe.

To avoid crowds, consider walking the City Walls just before they close at dusk, offering a more peaceful experience. 

P.S: Be mindful that some sections of the City Walls have steep drops and numerous steps, so caution is advised, especially if you've enjoyed a few drinks along the way!

Getting to York on a Grand Central train

York is conveniently located halfway between London and Edinburgh which makes it easily accessible with our trains and available routes are continuously updated on our timetables. If you arrive at York station, you can begin your City Walls tour at Micklegate Bar - just a short walk to your right as you exit the station.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, walking York's City Walls is an experience that offers both historical insights and delightful modern amenities. For further information about how you can travel to York via train, contact our helpful team today.