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History-Filled Tour Around Old Town, York
Old Town is brimming with places that spill the history and origination of the city. It would be delightful and astonishing to witness all the medieval period buildings, museums, and much more. You’ll have your historical horizons expanded after this York tour. And all this at your own pace with a budget-friendly price without splurging on pricy guides? Yes, that’s the deal. Are you ready to explore some historic sites? Let’s hop on with Tourist Walks.
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FREE App with A FREE WALK in Every City
Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. We provide a free walk to our new users.
Full Audio Visual Commentary
Tourist Walks is an application that can give you the freedom to explore the famous walks at your own discretion. We have created a full audio-visual self-guided experience that gives you the confidence to explore and discover the stories of various cities on your own.
Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them
Get a list of all the tourist sites you can visit. The Tourist Walks application will guide you to your next destination because every journey starts with a single step.
GPS and Multilingual Audio and Text Guidance
Even if you don’t understand the local language of the city you are visiting, Don’t worry. Audio guided walks have multilingual text assistance that will guide you in your native language.
Start/Stop/Rewind
/Restart Go at Your Own Pace
Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination. We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.
Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.
It is always frustrating when you wish to travel somewhere but your mobile phone service is out-of-order. Don’t worry! Tourist Walks comes with an offline version of built-in maps you might need, even without internet access.
FREE App & Walk Summaries
Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. The App is FREE, and all the walk summaries are FREE, each walk is individually priced and you can buy all the walks for a city at a discounted price.
Full Audio Visual Commentary
Tourist Walks is an application that can give you the freedom to explore the famous walks at your own discretion. We have created a full audio-visual self-guided experience that gives you the confidence to explore and discover the stories of various cities on your own.
Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them
Get a list of all the tourist sites you can visit. The Tourist Walks application will guide you to your next destination because every journey starts with a single step.
GPS and Multilingual Audio and Text Guidance
Even if you don’t understand the local language of the city you are visiting, Don’t worry. Audio guided walks have multilingual text assistance that will guide you in your native language.
Start/Stop/Rewind
/Restart Go at Your Own Pace
Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination. We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.
Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.
It is always frustrating when you wish to travel somewhere but your mobile phone service is out-of-order. Don’t worry! Tourist Walks comes with an offline version of built-in maps you might need, even without internet access.
Let’s Chase The Past of Old Town on This York Tour.
- Tour Name - Old Town Walk
- Tour Location - York
- No. of Attractions - #17
- Tour Starting Point - The Shambles
- Tour Ending Point - Newgate Market
- Attraction Points -
- The Shambles
- Margaret Clitherow Shrine
- Kings Square
- Old Girls School
- Stonegate
- No 35 Stonegate Bible
- Barley Hall
- Ye Olde Starre Inn
- A Ships Figurehead
- The Assembly Rooms
- St Helens Square
- Bettys Tea Rooms
- St Martin Le Grand
- The Little Admiral
- St Michaels Church
- The Ouse Bridge
- Margaret Clitherow
- All Saints Church
- St Sampsons Square
- St Sampsons Church
- Newgate Market
York is the most appropriate destination if you love exploring on foot. Why? Because while you’re onto a new destination on foot, you can soak in the city’s culture, embrace its architecture, and go all into knowing about its past in a better way. But what if you get lost by chance? Don’t worry because we have got you covered. We lead you to the most notable places you’d love to witness. Also, we tell you about the area’s roots through audio guides.
This York tour is brimming with well-researched knowledge of the place. This place is incomparable and inexplicable and will be better if you experience it yourself. All the insider facts about the residents, old buildings, and hidden gems will make you regret not visiting it earlier. As we move further on this tour, we’ll simultaneously move a step back in the history of the Old Town.
Does witnessing a building that was hidden for the longest time excite you? Then you’ll be delighted to be at Barley Hall in York. Next is the spot that has seen the elite class from the 18th century on countless get-togethers. You will also see the momentous Ouse Bridge having its roots in 1556. That is way too old and attracts many tourists. Add a tinge of completeness to your visit to York by having energising tea and some snacks at Bettys Tea Rooms.
We will cover more such places that hold powerful histories on this tour in York. Without any further ado, let’s dive into York’s history.
Your Itinerary For This Thrilling Self-Guided Tour in York
The Shambles
One of the oldest streets in York that beholds wooden designed buildings has to be the Shambles. It traces back to the 13th century when The Shambles had butchers all across the street. With time street has evolved into a crowded area and countless shops of all kinds. Here you can find yummy food and great gifting options. From apparel to sweets, you’ll have fun digging into this street on your tour in York. It attracts tourists from all over the world. So, let us tell you that exploring Shambles is worth it. We can’t wait to accompany you to this history-layered street on this York tour.
Margaret Clitherow Shrine
Magaret Clitherow Shrine is a spot on Shambles Street, York. It was installed here to remember the great catholic priest and martyr, Margaret Clitherow. She gathered all the courage to be a catholic priest in those times when it was considered a sin to be one. Hence, she was executed at the spot of this shrine. She was placed on a very sharp rock, and a heavy door was put on top of her, leading to her life’s end. The cruelty with which her life ended is beyond words and was highly opposed by Queen Elizabeth. We’ll describe in detail her journey and execution on this York tour.
Kings Square
The centre of York has this huge area open to the sky. The square was not always this pretty looking. It has had its slow evolution. Kings Square found its shape and place amidst the construction of the regal and changes to the existing shops and church. Today it is a magnet for tourists. You’ll find it crowded at all times. Also, you can easily spend your day at the square as numerous activities keep everyone entertained. You’ll have a great time at the Square with street performers, cafes, and retail outlets. Let’s get on this York tour and explore the magnificent square.
Old Girls School
Old Girls School stood tall at the Petergate in York long back. Today after centuries, the school is nowhere to be found. Why? Because a decent Italian restaurant ‘La Vecchia Scuola’ has replaced it. But you can still explore the souvenirs found all around the walls of the building. Feel the air of Italian elegance as you enter the restaurant. Make sure to enjoy the unique dishes from the menu, finely crafted and made with love by their experienced staff. You can rely on them for the highest quality food as their ingredients are imported from Italy. Gear up to enjoy the tastiest food while hearing the exciting history of the spot on this York tour.
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Stonegate
Stonegate is probably the most significant street. It holds numerous buildings of architectural and historical importance. Also, it welcomes an overwhelming number of tourists. The buildings have their roots in the medieval and Georgian eras adding to the uniqueness of the street altogether. You can have your shopping time on this street full of historical character and enjoy some food at pretty cafes nearby. While strolling, don’t forget to observe the beautiful performances set for the tourists to have a great time. We’ll keep you updated about the journey and anecdotes of the place on this self-guided tour in York.
No 35 Stonegate Bible
It is probably one of the oldest buildings in York. The 35 Stonegate Bible dates back to the 15th century when it sprung up. With a few changes, the building has its journey of evolution. It is a wooden-lined house with ‘Holy Bible 1682’ carved on the upper side of one of the doors. The beautifully crafted interiors date back to the Georgian and late Victorian eras. As you step into the Stonegate, you’ll feel like being transported to a different era. For decades it was an abode for a publishing house named ‘Sign of the Bible’. We would love to guide you to this magnificent spot on this beautiful York tour.
Barley Hall
The building originated in the 14th century as a townhouse for clerics of the Nostell Priory. But later on, in 1430, it took its place as home to Lord Mayor. We’re excited to tell you that it has successfully found its originality back after being out of use for centuries. Today it attracts thousands of tourists for the history it has beheld. Step back into the medieval period today on this magical tour in York.
Ye Olde Starre Inn
Established in 1644, Ye Olde is one of the most historically rich pubs. Why? Because it holds a pub license for the longest time. Back in the day, during the Civil War, this place was used as a hospital for soldiers. Today, you can easily spot the board of the pub across the street around the Stonegate area. With all the surreal views, you can hang out with friends and family on your trip with tasty food and cask ales on the side. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of the pub and places around. We’ll witness the pub and its history together on this York tour.
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A Ships Figurehead
The ship’s Figurehead is a wooden structure of a female which was mysteriously attached to No. 13 Stonegate, a house from the 15th century. We call it mysterious because there’s no record of when this happened. This woman has one arm and one wing with an intriguing history. It’s believed that the structure has come from the backside of a ship. No one is sure about the origination of this structure. Some stories have been travelling for centuries which you’ll know on this self-guided tour in York.
The Assembly Rooms
Standing tall on Blake street in York, Assembly Room witnesses numerous tourists. Lord Burlington gave the assembly Rooms their majestic shape. It was a place where people could come together as one and enjoy events, parties, and more back in the 18th century. Although it has seen changes with time, its roots have remained the same. The Assembly rooms began to serve as an Italian Restaurant named ‘Ask’ after York Trust took over in 2002. Allow us to spread out the layers of its evolution on this super exciting York Tour.
St Helens Square
As you head to St Helen’s Square, you’ll find a tinge of history in almost everything around. Especially in the structural designs of the buildings. Helen’s square was just a way to Eboracum back during the Roman era. After the 18th century, it went into an evolutionary spiral that led to the current square you’ll find today. The St Helen’s church and the Mansion make a good match with the Georgian and Victorian eras. You can never go wrong with visiting the square’s cafes and shopping from the numerous outlets. Let’s see what more we can find here on this tour in the beautiful Old town of York.
Bettys Tea Rooms
If you’re taking a trip to York and miss Betty’s tea rooms, you’ll not have that cherry on the cake. A Swiss orphan Federick Belmont ideated the Bettys Tea Rooms. It’s a great pleasure to visit the Bettys Tea rooms, which have been serving ‘Happy sips’ since 1936. It changes its menu with the season to bring the best possible quality and flavours straight from the farms. From customised afternoon tea to crunchy biscuits with different flavoured soft spongy cakes, you’ll have the best time here. We can’t wait for you to experience the aroma of fresh tea and just baked cakes.
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St Martin Le Grand
St Martins is often known as the ‘Phoenix risen from ashes. Why? Because St Martin turned to ashes during World War 2. What could be saved was just its tower and its southern aisle. It had to be extensively worked upon to restore its original shape. It was considered a chapel of peace and reconciliation after that. Today it is a mix of the past with a hint of modern design. Its spectacular heritage will leave you astonished. It is what you’ll hear from us on this York tour.
The Little Admiral
St Michael Le Grand at Coney Street has something little yet too precious that people come to visit on their trip to York. That little something is a clock known by people as ‘The Little Admiral’. It is an 18th-century design making it all the more prestigious. A firm repairs it from time to time to ensure it is working and pleasing to look at. We’re as excited as you to visit this little admiral and fall in love with it all over again. Jump on this York tour to say hello to our favourite admiral.
St Michaels Church
Another historical gem of York is this St Michael’s Church. It’s been there since the 12th century, which is way longer than we can imagine. It was larger than it is today before JB and W Atkinson reduced its size in 1821. The Church shut down in 1984. After five years, in 1989, the building opened its gates to welcome people to a restaurant and cafe with a small chapel on the upper floor. We’re sure you’ll be delighted to visit a place of such intensive history. So, let’s go to this Church and witness its evolution over the years on this York Tour.
The Ouse Bridge
Out of so many bridges built above the River Ouse, the Ouse bridge is one of the oldest bridges you’ll come across. Back in 1154, the bridge came down. Eventually, a six-arched bridge took its place. It served its purpose for 200 years, after which it got renovated in the 19th century. The current design of the Ouse bridge dates back to the 19th century. It is even more beautiful to look at in the evening when it lights up. But once you hear about its impactful tales from the past, you’ll admire the bridge more. That is precisely everything we aim for on this walking tour in York.
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Margaret Clitherow
Margaret Clitherow is well known and highly respected by people for her dedication and sacrifices. She’s a martyr who celebrated a mass at a time when it was disloyal to be a catholic priest. She also owned a school that believed in imparting catholic knowledge to children. Even after knowing the consequences, she never contended the authorities for the charges against her. As a result, she got executed. We’ll lead you to the house of the ‘Pearl of York’. Wait till we unfold more about this place and the Patron saint’s journey on this tour in York.
All Saints Church
The heart of York has this beautiful ‘All Saints church’. This Church dates back to the 14th century and gives you all the serene and peaceful feeling as you enter it. Here you can attend the mass conducted three times a week. The highlight of the Church is the stained glass from the 14th and 15th centuries. The magnificent glass is not only of exceptional quality but also gives you an insight into the parish’s devotional journey. Let’s visit this holy place with a rich history.
St Sampsons Square
York is the most beautiful city with creamy history backing it up. And what’s better than just strolling around a historical street? That is what St Sampsons Square offers you. An afternoon at a busy square brimming with great pubs for you to have a drink or two will surely make your trip a success. Also, you can have your favourite snack and shop your heart out at this square. Don’t miss to observe the buildings around as these have been standing there for centuries. And if you want to dive deep into the history of the spot, then we’d be happy to accompany you on this self-guided York tour.
St Sampsons Church
Visiting St Sampson’s Church would be nothing but pure joy. Various bits of the Church are from the 14th and 15th centuries. So you see, it’s a historical pearl altogether. The church is no longer in use. Also, the place is now a meeting point for people above 60. They can gather and have a great time enjoying concerts and dances with some good snacks. It’s delightful to see the core purpose of the church being fulfilled even after centuries. Do you know what it is? To Serve the community. We’ll lead you here. You’ll then know about St Sampson’s and its revolutionary journey on this splendid self-guided tour in York.
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Newgate Market
The Newgate market is crowded, with all the stories it has carried along for centuries. In 1955, York had two markets. One was at Parliament Street the other was at St Sampson’s Square. The Parliament street market was permanently closed after some time. And Sampson’s was just open on Saturdays. It led to countless retailers going out of business. To compensate, they found their place in a new market which was the Newgate market. That is how it sprung back then. The ‘Newgate Market’ eventually conceived its name as ‘Shambles Market’. Today you’ll find everything ranging from fashion to food. Check out this market and learn about its exciting journey on this magnificent York Tour.
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SELF GUIDED WALKS
Do you wish to explore all the beautiful tourist spots? Download our application and discover the hidden beauty and mystery of your destination. Explore today!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. After the walks have been downloaded, for which you need an internet connection, no mobile data is required to do the walks.
No you can pause and resume at any point within the walk. Whether you need a coffee or a comfort break the walks are entirely flexible.
Yes you will receive both verbal guidance and a GPS enabled map to take you around each of the points of interest on the walks.
No the walks are circular so you will receive multiple options of where to start each walk.
Yes there are providing you buy them as a bundle, not one at a time. You can even buy all the walks in one package at a very generous price.
For each point of interest you will get information both verbally and in text and sometimes video form together with helpful images to get the most from each one.
You can pay by all manner of credit and debit cards as well as Paypal.
In the walk summary we point out if the walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pets, and there is also an indication of the distance of the walk, and how long it will take.
Yes we would love to hear from you through our website: www.touristwalks.co.uk
Happy Tourists
I absolutely enjoyed using the Tourist Walk app! The guided walking tours are very informative and interesting. I was able to find the tour I wanted quickly and easily, and the app was very easy to navigate. The walking tour itself was a lot of fun, and I learned a lot about the city. Overall, I would highly recommend this.
Carla Mathew
Tourist Walk is an excellent walking guide app. It is extremely user-friendly and provides great information on the various tours available. I would highly recommend this app to anyone visiting a new city!
Shaun Miles
Tourist Walk is an amazing app that provides guided tours of various cities. The app is extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate. I was able to find the tour I was looking for quickly and easily. The tour itself was very informative and interesting. I would highly recommend this app to anyone visiting a new city!
