Private York Highlights Half-Day Walking Tour

York’s iconic sights await on this private, personalized tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll discover the magnificent York Minster, the enchanting medieval street of The Shambles, and more. With convenient pickup options and free cancellation, this wheelchair-accessible experience offers a tailored exploration of the city’s rich history. Uncover York’s captivating past as you stroll through its winding streets, but prepare to be left wanting more.

Contents show

Key Points

A 3-hour private walking tour of York’s top highlights, led by a live English-speaking guide.
Priced at $260.07 per group (up to 6 participants) with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Includes visits to iconic sites like York Minster and The Shambles, a well-preserved medieval street.
Offers pickup options from the York Tourist Information Centre or hotels.
Designed to be wheelchair accessible, with assistance provided for navigating any uneven or challenging terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The private York Highlights Half-Day Walking Tour offers a comprehensive 3-hour exploration of the city’s key sights, led by a live English-speaking guide.

A comprehensive 3-hour exploration of York’s key sights, led by a live English-speaking guide.

Priced from $260.07 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour provides pickup options from the York Tourist Information Centre or your hotel.

Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The personalized experience allows participants to discover iconic landmarks like York Minster, The Shambles, and the city’s Roman walls, as well as hidden treasures, while learning about York’s rich history.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in York

Booking Information

To reserve your spot on the private York Highlights Half-Day Walking Tour, you can book without upfront payment.

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can check availability and select their preferred starting time.

The personalized tour with a local guide explores key sights in York, including the iconic York Minster, the historic Shambles, the city walls, and more.

The 3-hour walking tour is priced from $260.07 per group, accommodating up to 6 participants.

This flexible booking process ensures a seamless experience tailored to individual preferences.

York Minster

Although it dominates the York skyline, York Minster is much more than just an impressive medieval cathedral.

This architectural gem offers a window into over 2,000 years of history. Visitors can marvel at its stunning Gothic architecture, including the magnificent stained-glass windows, and learn about its role as a center of Christianity in northern England.

The Minster’s intricate stone carvings and chapels showcase the skilled craftsmanship of its builders.

Whether exploring the underground Undercroft or climbing the tower for panoramic views, a visit to York Minster is a must for anyone exploring the city’s rich heritage.

The Shambles

Winding its way through the heart of York, The Shambles is a captivating medieval street that transports visitors back in time.

Once home to butchers, this narrow alleyway features overhanging timber-framed buildings that nearly touch, creating a sense of intimacy and history.

The Shambles’ distinctive architecture, with its protruding upper floors and tiny shops, has earned it the title of "the best preserved medieval street in the world."
Strolling through this atmospheric lane, visitors can imagine the sights, sounds, and smells that would have filled the air centuries ago.
Today, The Shambles is a popular tourist destination, offering an enchanting glimpse into York’s rich past.

More Great Tours Nearby

York Walls

York’s historic city walls are a renowned feature of the city, offering visitors a unique vantage point to explore the city’s rich history.

Spanning over 2 miles, the ancient walls date back to Roman times and provide panoramic views of the city’s medieval architecture, churches, and the River Ouse.

The ancient walls spanning over 2 miles date back to Roman times, offering panoramic views of York’s medieval architecture and the River Ouse.

Visitors can walk atop the walls, discovering the various towers and gatehouses that once guarded the city.

The walls offer a fascinating glimpse into York’s past, allowing visitors to imagine the city’s storied history as they traverse the walkway.

Into exploring York on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at

Jorvik Centre

The Jorvik Centre offers visitors a unique glimpse into York’s Viking past.

Through cutting-edge displays and multimedia exhibits, the centre immerses guests in the sights, sounds, and smells of 10th-century Jorvik (the Viking name for York).

Visitors can:

Ride in a time-travelling "Viking vehicle" to explore a recreated Viking-age street
Interact with lifelike mannequins and learn about the daily lives of York’s former Viking inhabitants
Examine archaeological artifacts recovered from the Coppergate dig, one of the most significant Viking discoveries in Europe.

The Jorvik Centre provides a captivating and educational experience, transporting visitors back to the glory days of Viking-era York.

Treasurers House

Treasurers House, a historic Tudor mansion, stands as a testament to York’s affluent past.

The 15th-century home features exceptional oak paneling, intricate plasterwork, and a remarkable collection of antique furniture. Visitors can explore the grand interiors and learn about the influential Treasurer family who once resided here.

The house also boasts a stunning courtyard garden, providing a tranquil respite from the bustling city streets.

As a significant example of Tudor architecture, Treasurers House offers a glimpse into the lives of York’s elite during the height of the city’s prosperity.

Accessibility

As a key consideration for the Private York Walking Tour, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all participants can fully engage with the city’s rich history and landmarks.

The tour is tailored to accommodate the needs and preferences of each group, with the guide being attentive to the participants’ abilities and requirements.

Some key accessibility features include:

Flat, well-paved walking paths along the tour route
Ramps and handrails at key locations, such as the York Minster
Assistance with navigating any uneven or challenging terrain

The tour’s flexibility and attention to accessibility make it an inclusive experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Guide Knowledgeable About the Local Cuisine in York?

The tour guide is focused on providing a rundown of York’s historical landmarks and is not specifically knowledgeable about the local cuisine. The tour concentrates on immersing participants in the city’s rich history and architecture.

Can We Make Stops for Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour guide can accommodate restroom breaks during the tour. As a private tour, the guide is flexible and tailored to the participants’ needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the 3-hour walking tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Required?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if required. The tour guide is flexible and can accommodate requests to extend the tour beyond the standard 3 hours, allowing participants to explore York’s highlights at a comfortable pace.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water and Snacks for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide water or snacks, so participants should bring their own. The guide will lead the group through the city, so there’ll be opportunities to purchase refreshments during breaks.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Interests of the Group?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include the group’s specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows the guide to tailor the experience based on the participants’ preferences and areas of interest.

The Sum Up

The Private York Highlights Half-Day Walking Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of York’s iconic landmarks and medieval charm. With a knowledgeable guide, flexible pickup options, and accessibility features, this tour offers a personalized and convenient way to discover the city’s rich history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive York experience.