How to plan your Private Tour York City and York Minster

If you’re visiting the UK, then a visit to York is a must-see on your list of destinations. York, with its Roman and Viking history and beautiful architecture, is known for its hidden secrets. However, exploring the city independently may mean missing out on some of the best secrets the city holds. A walking tour with a private guide provides an opportunity to explore the city’s top attractions like Clifford’s Tower, the Jorvik Viking Centre, the Roman Walls, and York Minster. Here’s an ultimate guide on how to plan your Private Tour York City and York Minster, including everything you need to know:

Overview of the Private Tour York City and York Minster

The York Private Walking Tour is a 2.5-hour guided tour led by a Blue Badge certified local guide. Your guide will share their knowledge of York’s Roman and Viking period history, providing an informative and thrilling experience. You’ll discover top-rated attractions like Clifford’s Tower, Jorvik Viking Centre, and St Mary’s Abbey. Some of the highlights of the Private Tour York City and York Minster include the following:

Clifford’s Tower

The 13th-century Clifford’s Tower is situated on a mound that commands a stunning view of the city. Its history reflects the struggles between the English and the Vikings. You’ll learn about its history from your knowledgeable local guide.

Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre provides insight into the Viking occupation of York, including the history, life, and culture of the period. You can appreciate the Viking influence on the city up close, from the world-renowned York helmet to the Viking age residents.

Roman Walls

The Roman Wall in York stretches over 2 miles, which makes it the longest city-wall in England. You’ll gain an insight into how the wall played a critical role in the city’s defence against Viking invasions.

St Mary’s Abbey

St Mary’s Abbey is a ruined Augustinian monastery located in the Gardens Museum. It is one of the most significant monastic complexes in England.

York Minster

No visit to York would be complete without a visit to York Minster. The Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, with a history that spans 1400 years. Your knowledgeable guide will provide you with insight into the building’s history, and you will be able to appreciate the stunning architecture and design of this iconic building.

What’s included

The tour includes a private guide, all taxes, fees, and handling charges. Gratuities, food, and drinks are not included.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the Private Tour York City and York Minster is at the Rail Station (Stop RB), York YO24 1AY, UK. The tour departs from the covered entrance section of York Railway Station, adjacent to Station Road. Your guide will be holding a sign with your name on it.

Booking Information

Booking your Private Tour York City and York Minster is easy. Visit the following link book the tour here to book the tour online.

The Bottom Line

Exploring York’s rich Roman and Viking history and stunning architecture is a must-do when visiting the UK. The Private Tour York City and York Minster offers an informative and thrilling journey through the city’s top attractions, led by a Blue Badge certified local guide. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the hidden secrets of York!

York, the city of history, culture and beauty

York is one of the oldest cities in England, known for its rich history, stunning architecture and fascinating culture. This marvelous city has been the centre of political, cultural and social events for over 2000 years and is now a popular tourist destination. Whether you are interested in history, culture or just want to enjoy the beauty of the city, York is the perfect place to visit. Below are some frequently asked questions about this wonderful city.

1. What is the best way to get to York?

York is well-connected to major cities in the UK. You can easily get there by train, car or bus. If you are travelling from London, the fastest and most convenient way to reach York is by train. There are direct trains every hour, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. If you are travelling by car, York is easily accessible from the A1 and the M1 motorways. Buses are also available from various cities, including Manchester, Leeds, and London.

2. What are the best places to visit in York?

York has a plethora of places to visit, from historic landmarks to fascinating museums. The top places to visit in York include the York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral, the Jorvik Viking Centre, which takes you back in time to the Viking age, the National Railway Museum, which showcases over 300 years of railway history, and the York Castle Museum, which gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of people in York over the centuries. Apart from these, there are many parks, gardens, and art galleries that are worth visiting.

3. What is the best time of the year to visit York?

The best time to visit York is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm, and most of the city’s attractions and events are open. The Autumn months of September and October are also a good time to visit, when the crowds are smaller, and the trees are changing colours. However, it’s important to note that York can get crowded during peak season, so be prepared for long queues and wait times.

4. Are there any free things to do in York?

Yes, there are several free things to do in York. You can visit the York Museum Gardens, which are home to the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey and offer a peaceful oasis in the city, or stroll along the historic city walls for breathtaking views of the city. You can also wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the Shambles, visit the medieval Merchant Adventurer’s Hall or explore the city’s parks and gardens. Additionally, many of York’s churches, including St. Martin-cum-Gregory, Holy Trinity Goodramgate and All Saints Pavement, are free to enter.

5. What are some traditional dishes to try in York?

York is known for its traditional fare, including the famous Yorkshire pudding. Other local dishes include the Yorkshire curd tart, made with curd cheese, eggs, and sugar, and the parkin, a gingerbread made with oatmeal, ginger, and treacle. In addition to these, there are many other local delicacies that are worth trying, including the famous roast beef, fish and chips, and homemade ice cream.

6. Is there any shopping in York?

Yes, York has a wealth of shopping options for visitors. The Shambles is a must-visit for those interested in unique, independent shops, while the Coppergate Shopping Centre is home to many popular high street retailers. You can also check out the outdoor market on Parliament Street, which sells everything from local produce to fashion and crafts.

7. What are some events or festivals in York?

There are many events and festivals that take place in York throughout the year. Some of the most popular include the York Food and Drink Festival, which takes place in September and showcases local food and drink, the Jorvik Viking Festival, which celebrates York’s Viking heritage, and the York Christmas Festival, where the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. Other notable events include the York Literature Festival, York Races, and the York Early Music Festival.

8. Are there any ghost tours in York?

Yes, York is famous for its ghost tours. The city has a dark and eerie reputation, with many tales of ghosts, witches, and murder. There are several ghost tours available, including the Original Ghost Walk of York, which takes you on a tour of York’s most haunted sites, and the Ghost Hunt of York, which is a more interactive experience.

Book Your Tour Now

York is a fascinating city with a rich history, stunning architecture and a vibrant culture. From the iconic York Minster to the city’s many museums, parks, and galleries, there is no shortage of things to see and do in York. Whether you are visiting for a day or a week, this city is sure to enchant you with its beauty and history. So plan your trip to York today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in York

York is a city that is steeped in history and boasts of some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in the country. It is filled with numerous attractions that appeal to tourists from all over the world. If you are planning to visit York anytime soon, here is how you can make the most of your time there:

1. Visit York Minster

York Minster is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and is a must-visit for any tourist. The Cathedral is imposing and is the largest medieval cathedral in all of Northern Europe. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece with stained glass windows that are over 600 years old. It takes a good half day to tour the cathedral, so make sure you allocate enough time in your itinerary.

2. Stroll along the ancient city walls

The city walls are well over 800 years old and are still one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the city. You can take a walk along the walls and enjoy some breathtaking views of York Minster and other landmarks along the way. It is best to do this early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

3. Visit the Castle Museum

This museum is located inside the old prison building and will give you a glimpse into what life was like in York in the 18th and 19th centuries. There are various exhibits here that showcase the life and times of the people who lived and worked in the city. You can see old prison cells, period costumes, and other artifacts that give you a glimpse into life back then.

4. Explore The Shambles

The Shambles is a narrow medieval street that has been preserved to give tourists a feel of what life was like in York back in the day. The buildings here are over 700 years old and have housed various businesses over the years. Today, it is a popular shopping destination with various boutiques, cafes, and street performers.

5. Take a spooky ghost walk

York is known for its spooky past, and there are various ghost walks that are organized around the city. These walks take you through some of the oldest and most haunted parts of York, and you will hear various stories and legends along the way. It is an excellent way to learn about the city’s history and get your adrenaline pumping at the same time.

6. Visit the National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is located close to the city center and is a fascinating place to visit, even if you are not a train enthusiast. There are various exhibits here that showcase the evolution of the railroad network in the UK, and you can see various locomotives and carriages up close. It is an excellent place to bring kids and is a fun and educational day out.

7. Enjoy an afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Room

No visit to York is complete without enjoying an afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Room. This iconic establishment has been serving up traditional English tea and pastries for over 100 years and is an essential part of the city’s history. Make sure to book ahead as the tearoom is incredibly popular with tourists and locals alike.

8. Take a river cruise on the Ouse

A river cruise along the Ouse is an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective. You can hop-on and hop-off at various stops along the river and get an up-close view of various landmarks such as the Clifford’s Tower and the York Minster. It is best to do this during the summer months when the weather is good.

Summary

In conclusion, York is a city that has a lot to offer, and these are just some of the things you can do during your visit. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets where necessary to avoid disappointment. With a little planning, you are sure to have an unforgettable time in one of the UK’s most historic cities.