York City Walls
England's most complete medieval city walls, stretching about 3.4 kilometers. You can walk the full circuit of the old city for free.
The walls of York date back to the Roman period, but most of the surviving sections were built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Four main gateways, known as Bars, are well preserved: Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar. The walkway is free and takes about 2 hours to complete. The most recommended section runs from Bootham Bar to Monk Bar, where you get close views of the cathedral. Inside Micklegate Bar is a small museum called the Henry VII Experience. The walkway generally opens around 8 a.m. and remains open until dusk. It closes during ice or strong winds. Some sections have low railings and narrow steps, so keep an eye on children.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00 to dusk
Nearby sights
- Clifford's Tower
- Fairfax House
- York Dungeon
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Castle Museum
- Merchant Adventurers' Hall
- Shambles Market
- The Shambles