Tour in York

Group of five people in jackets standing near stone building on a cloudy day in York
5.0(2)
From $203
per group
2 hours
Walking Tours
York

Private York Walking Tour with Local Guide

At a Glance

Type
Walking Tours
Duration
2 hours
Rating
5.0/5 (2)
Price
From $203/group
Fitness
Moderate - The tour invol...

Tour Details

Get your bearings and explore York like a local on this exclusive private walking tour, led by an expert guide. More than just a history lesson, this immersive experience brings the city’s rich past to life as you stroll through its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and hidden corners. Step back in time to Viking-age Jorvik, walk in the footsteps of Romans along the city’s famous walls, and uncover how York evolved from a medieval religious center to the vibrant, historic gem it is today. From grand landmarks to tucked-away treasures, your guide will share the stories that make York unique.

What Makes This Tour Special

This private walking tour includes personalized commentary tailored to visitor interests, access to less-frequented streets and corners, and detailed storytelling about York’s Roman foundations, Viking heritage, and medieval transformation.
  • Guidance by a local expert with deep knowledge of York’s layered history.
  • Opportunity to walk on well-preserved Roman city walls and through ancient streets like the Shambles.
  • Insights into the evolution of York from Jorvik times to medieval religious center.
  • Flexible itinerary allowing focus on specific historical periods or sites based on visitor interest.
  • Small group or individual tours for a more intimate experience.

Historical Background

York was founded by the Romans in 71 AD as Eboracum and later became a major Viking settlement known as Jorvik around the 9th century. The city developed into a significant medieval religious center, housing York Minster and numerous historic buildings along its ancient city walls.

Is This Tour Worth It?

This walking tours activity is highly rated at 5.0/5 across 2 reviews, running 2 hours from $203 per group.

Best For

FamiliesPrivate groups
Less ideal for: Those with limited mobility · Wheelchair users

Pros

  • +Outstanding rating: 5.0/5
  • +Booked through Viator

Cons

  • -Cancellation policy not specified
  • -Requires moderate - the tour involves walking on uneven cobblestones, some inclines, and sections of city walls that may have steps. fitness level
  • -Inclusions not listed

Similar Tours in This Area

Gothic cathedral with tall spires and arched stonework lit by warm sunset light
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(3 reviews)

The “Capital of the North”, founded by the Roman Empire in 1st century AD, the walled city of York is living history. Come with us to get the insight of York Minster, the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, Jórvík Viking Centre, and other examples of this city’s troublesome past, and for an insider view of modern York.

From
€334
per group
View →
grass lawn with leafless trees and benches beside large stone cathedral under cloudy sky
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

York is amazing. King George VI once said, 'The history of York is the history of England'. Well he wasn't wrong. The city has been home to Romans, Saxons, Vikings and Normans. It has been the 'capital' of the north and has been a centre for trade, commerce and power through the centuries. Today York is a vibrant, modern city with one of the best windows on the past that you will ever find. Join me on a tour of my fascinating home city to learn more about its history and what has made it the city it is today. Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and marauding Vikings, pass through medieval streets, stand in the shadow of one of the world's great cathedrals and take in the view from the city walls.

From
€128
per group
View →
Group of people listening to a guide near a grassy mound with a stone tower on top during daytime
Walking Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(13 reviews)

Discover York's vibrant Viking history on this engaging 90-minute walking tour. Beginning opposite the iconic Jorvik Viking Centre, this tour combines history, comedy, and mythology for a unique family-friendly experience. Perfect for all ages, you'll delve into the fascinating tales of York's Viking past while enjoying a few laughs along the way. Join a knowledgeable guide who brings the stories to life and allows you to explore the city's rich heritage in an entertaining manner. 90-minute walking tour focusing on York's Viking history Starts at the Jorvik Viking Centre for easy access A mix of comedy and mythology makes it enjoyable for everyone Family-friendly activity suitable for all ages

From
€15
per person
View →
Four men in historical costumes posing with surprised expressions next to a phone showing a tour app screen
Walking Tours
Viator
(4 reviews)

York’s streets have been witness to countless stories. On this lighthearted walking tour, you’ll discover York’s fascinating past through humorous storytelling, historical anecdotes, and playful character encounters. From Roman legionaries to medieval monks and Victorian innovators, the city’s 2,000 years of history will vividly come to life. The tour starts at Clifford’s Tower, a historic Norman fortification with a turbulent past. You’ll weave through York’s atmospheric streets and ginnels, encountering historical figures like William the Conqueror, Constantine the Great, and Guy Fawkes along the way. The Silly History Boys narrate stories of Viking invasions, Roman settlements, religious persecution, and medieval commerce through comedic sketches and entertaining dialogue.

From
€10
per group
View →
people walking on snowy street lined with timber-framed shops decorated with Christmas lights at night
Walking Tours
Viator
(7 reviews)

Let your own private guide take you around the world famous city of York, which is at its most beautiful during the Christmas season. Your bespoke tour will include visiting some of the key sites of the city, in addition to a number of our hidden gems usually missed by tourists, with your well informed and friendly guides.

From
€76
per group
View →
historic gothic cathedral with tall spires and large stained glass windows under a blue sky
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

Step into the city’s ancient walls, and meander through several thousand years of history on a private walking tour. As you walk the city walls, marvel in the spectacular views of York Minster, Northern Europe’s largest cathedral and an architectural masterpiece that emits a radiating glow over the city. See where Guy Fawkes was born, now a pub with his namesake. Discover one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets as mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and admire the medieval Clifford's tower, the largest remaining part of York Castle. Guildhall is located beyond the Mansion House, and is an imposing first Grade I listed 15th pile situated on the River Ouse. The tour finishes at The Star Inn, an old engine house, which sits on the edge of the Museum Gardens by the River Ouse.

From
€251
per group
View →