J & M York City Walking Tours





Description
Step off the beaten path into the beating heart of York’s rich, rebellious past! This highly rated walking tour isn’t your average stroll—it’s an adventure through 6,000 years of real history, gripping stories and your chance to discover all you can on your visit. We’ll explore the city’s mighty medieval defences and how they evolved to keep out everyone from invading armies to enticing tourists. Marvel at York’s architectural wonders, from Roman stonework to the craftsmanship of medieval masons whose skills shaped the skyline we see today. Discover the powerful guilds that once ruled the city’s economy, their grand halls, and the “cash crops” that fuelled their rise. Constantine the Great to Oliver Cromwell, Robert the Bruce to kings, queens, history’s biggest names walked these streets, and now, so will you. Wander along city walls and down ancient streets, as we bust myths and reveal the truth behind the past. This is York unleashed: gritty, glorious, and unforgettable.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Our guide will show you what makes York so unique, the Medieval walls and Gateways, the Minster, the ancient Shambles, Lantern towers, rivers and castle. See the grave of Dick Turpin and walk through 2000 years of the cities heritage follow in the footsteps of ancient tribes, Romans, Kings and Queens and some of histories most notorious. Our guides can also take you around the museums of your choice for an additional fee.
The largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe, York Minster took 252 years too build. There are Minster guides inside, tours last an hour.
Walking around the Motte of the castle built in 1069, your guide will bring alive its bloody and dark secrets, walk in the grounds of what would have been on elf the finest castles in England.
Walk down into the Medieval levels of the City and let our guide tell you about the richest Guild in York and the part the traders played in Yorks prosperity. Find out how important women were in this guild.
The street of the Butchers, our guide will take to the shrine of St Margaret Clitheroe, and exploring with to uncover the secrets of one of Yorks oldest streets.
We take a look at this medieval church with its rich history, built partially from Roman brick work it also features Saxon and Norman architecture. Its most unique feature is its 'Devils door' we will unravel the truth behind the myth.
We take in a section of the medieval walls where you'll see the cities Roman defences, danish earthwork and discover its medieval past, sieges, and Victorian alterations. We will also pass by the old Jewish quarter of the city.
Learn about the origins of York, its visiting emperors and delve into the story of Constantine the Great, his effect on Christianity and York.
As we enter the old Hungate Parish, you'll discover the Black Swan, its famous residents and links to the battle of Quebec. Near by is a building whose architecture reflects the Irish heritage of the area as well as having a chance to spot one of Yorks famous Black Cats.
On the city walls you'll see the Merchant Taylors, discover how guilds became the economic centre of Cities like York, the Taylors significance to the city and its role today.
Visit the market and discover their significance in Yorks economic growth.
One of 6 gates in York you'll discover its role in the city defences, the legend of the Wild men of York as well as our Bars more gruesome uses.
As we walk along this Saxon street you'll discover the Dutch House, it's significance to architectural changes after the Great fire of London and the emergence of Insurance policies.
In this ancient square you'll discover the meaning behind our street names and thinner Viking heritage and learn about the very centre of the city of Jorvic
From out side we'll look at the old building s of the museum looking at prison reform, the building usage in the past and delve into the myth and stories behind the real Dick Turpin.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(523)
A great experience, loads of interesting facts and places covered and lots of time periods in Yorks long history. Guide was very conscious of keeping us in the shade and safe off busy roads during what was a heatwave day which was much appreciated by all. Guide was a font of knowledge delivered in a clear voice which wasn't easy over the busy August hub bub of traffic and tourists and all delivered with some great humour also. He answered my question at the end concerning my specialised knowledge of stained glass. I would go on the same tour again on a less hot day and also to reinforce my knowledge of York !
We had a fantastic time on this history tour of York. Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and clearly passionate about the city's rich history. Every part of the tour was delivered with excellent communication, making even the more complex historical details easy to follow and engaging. The humour sprinkled throughout kept the group entertained and made the experience even more enjoyable. The balance of fascinating facts, storytelling, and light-hearted moments was spot on. We came away having learned a great deal while thoroughly enjoying ourselves. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting York who wants an informative, entertaining, and memorable experience.
Good walking tour with knowledgeable and entertaining guide. About the right duration (2 hours) and distance, with regular stops to talk about features of interest and history.
Excellent tour covered a huge range of the history of York and its many layers. Would highly recomend.
Really enjoyable experience, our guide was very knowledgeable and gave us plenty of extra tips on getting the best out of our time in York. Would definitely recommend this walking tour.
Thank you for taking the time to review your time with us. I’m so pleased you enjoyed the rich history and vibrant city.
The guide through the wonders of old York was very clear and informative. I’d recommend his services to anyone.
Thank you.
We had a wonderful tour with Nick. Small group. Very informative. We loved walking to wall and the local history.
Thank you for a lovely review I’m so pleased you enjoyed the journey!
An excellent, knowledgeable and entertaining guide
Thank you so much for your kind comments
Really enjoyed this walk, learnt so much. Appreciated that it wasn't gimmicky so if that's not your thing try this.
Definitely no gimmicks. This is history and myth busting at its best. Thank you for this review!
One of the best walking tours I have done. Our guide Nick was extremely knowledgeable and provided our group with a wonderful, comprehensive historical tour of York. Lots of great stories. Highly recommend.
Thank you for this fantastic review. So pleased to hear you enjoyed the tour.



