The tower and its Postern Gate
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Fishergate Postern Tower York

4.5
·53 reviews·, United Kingdom

A 1505 medieval tower on York's walls, offering history, steep climbs, and stunning Minster views during rare open days.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late October open days

Limited annual access

CrowdMedium
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The tower and its Postern Gate

Fishergate Postern Tower York

Best Time

Late October open days

Limited annual access

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 1505 medieval tower on York's walls, offering history, steep climbs, and stunning Minster views during rare open days.

4.5
(53 reviews)

"Friendly volunteers make this historic tower a gem, despite its very limited opening days."

Vertical photo
TIP

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead!

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

The Tower itself

Explore a 1505 tower with four floors, showcasing historical alterations and a later roof addition. Discover masons' marks and immerse yourself in centuries of history.

Panoramic Minster Views

Panoramic Minster Views

Upper floors and roof

Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of York Minster and the surrounding city walls. A perfect spot for memorable photos.

Live Period Music

Live Period Music

Inside the Tower (during open days)

Experience the atmosphere with live lute music that complements the tower's historical setting, adding a unique auditory dimension to your visit.

Archaeological Discoveries

Archaeological Discoveries

On-site dig area (during open days)

Witness ongoing archaeological digs that have uncovered artifacts dating back 500 years, offering a glimpse into the site's rich past.

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Planning Your Visit

Limited Opening Hours

Fishergate Postern Tower is only open for a few days each year, typically in late October. Plan your visit well in advance to catch these limited opportunities. Check their official schedule before traveling to avoid disappointment.

Steep Staircase Access

Access to the upper floors involves navigating a tight, steep stone spiral staircase. While rope handles are provided, those with mobility issues or claustrophobia may find it challenging. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Best Times

When
Late October open days
Why
Limited annual access
Crowd
Medium
When
During live music events
Why
Unique historical ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are super friendly & knowledgeable about history. Ask questions! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops of York Minster from the top floors. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are super friendly & knowledgeable about history. Ask questions! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops of York Minster from the top floors. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Music

Live lute music during open days adds a special atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(53 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who bring the tower's history to life. The unique experience of climbing the steep stairs and the rewarding views of York Minster are highlights. However, the tower's extremely limited opening days are a significant drawback for many.

"Lovely evening walk around the old fortifications, with a great view of the Minster"

Angus Culverwell

"Fishergate Postern Tower dates from 1505. It has four floors and has interesting displays. It was altered and had the roof added at a later date. It is open to the public and the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. You can look for the masons marks. Access to the upper floors is by a tight stone spiral staircase. It is a very interesting place to visit."

Andrew Nell

"Really enjoyed our visit. The staff were really helpful & knowledgeable. There are 3 levels up a steep narrow staircase with rope handle to assist. Great views from the top."

Sarah Wynn

What People Like

Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Historic atmosphere
Great Minster views

What People Dislike

Very limited opening days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fishergate Postern Tower is located within the historic city walls of York. It's easily accessible on foot as part of a walk along the city walls. If arriving by car, park at one of the city center car parks and walk towards the tower. Public transport options to the city center are also available.

Yes, the tower is conveniently situated near many of York's main attractions, including York Minster and the Jorvik Viking Centre. It's a great stop during a walk along the York city walls.

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from York train station to the city walls near Fishergate Postern Tower. Follow signs towards the city center and then the walls.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fishergate Postern Tower has very limited opening hours, typically only open for about 10 days a year, with a common opportunity being in late October. It's crucial to check their official schedule or local listings for exact dates before planning your visit. Reddit

Entry is often by donation or a small fee, especially during its limited open days. The volunteers are usually very friendly and knowledgeable, and donations help maintain the site. Reddit

Given its limited opening, it's advisable to check if advance booking is required or recommended, especially if there are specific events like live music. However, on general open days, it might be possible to enter upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours vary depending on the specific open days. Typically, it's open during daytime hours. Always confirm the exact times for the day you plan to visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find displays detailing the tower's history, including information about its construction in 1505 and subsequent alterations. You can also look for masons' marks and learn about the surrounding area from knowledgeable volunteers. Reddit

Access to the upper floors is via a tight, steep stone spiral staircase. Rope handles are provided for assistance, but it can be challenging for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. Reddit

Yes, the upper levels offer excellent views of York Minster and the historic city walls, making it a great spot for photography. Reddit

During open days, there's often an on-site archaeological dig where visitors can see ongoing excavations. These digs have uncovered artifacts dating back 500 years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. Reddit

Children might find the history and the climb interesting, but the steep, narrow stairs could be a challenge for very young children or those who are unsteady on their feet. Adult supervision is recommended.

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunity is the view of York Minster from the upper levels of the tower. The tower itself, with its historic architecture, also makes for great shots, especially when walking along the city walls. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the tower, allowing you to capture the historical displays and architectural details. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for photographing the tower and the Minster. However, since opening hours are limited, any time during an open day will offer good opportunities.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fishergate Postern Tower can be an engaging stop for families, offering a tangible piece of history. The stories of medieval defenses and the chance to see archaeological finds can spark children's imaginations. However, parents should be aware of the steep and narrow spiral staircase; it requires careful supervision and might be difficult for very young children or those who are unsteady. The views from the top are usually a hit with kids, providing a great spot for them to spot landmarks. Reddit

Consider visiting during an open day when live music might be playing, adding an extra element of fun. The knowledgeable volunteers are also a great resource for engaging children with historical facts in an accessible way. It's a good idea to manage expectations regarding the climb and the confined spaces, ensuring the experience is enjoyable for everyone.

🚶 History Buffs & Urban Explorers

For those fascinated by medieval fortifications and urban history, Fishergate Postern Tower is a must-visit. Its 1505 construction date and its role within the extensive York city walls offer a deep dive into defensive architecture. The opportunity to see masons' marks and learn about historical alterations provides detailed insights. Reddit

The limited opening days add to its allure, making it feel like a hidden gem. The presence of ongoing archaeological digs and the chance to interact with passionate volunteers who can share in-depth historical knowledge elevate the experience beyond a typical museum visit. The views from the top also offer a historical perspective on the city's layout and development. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Fishergate Postern Tower is a significant historical structure within York's ancient city walls, dating back to 1505. Originally part of the city's defenses, it has undergone various alterations over the centuries, including the addition of its roof at a later date. Visitors can explore its four floors, often finding masons' marks etched into the stonework, offering clues to its construction and the artisans who built it. The tower provides a tangible connection to York's medieval past, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine life within these fortifications. Reddit

The tower's limited opening schedule means that visiting is a special event. When open, it's staffed by friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who are passionate about sharing the tower's history. They can point out interesting features and provide context for the displays. The presence of an on-site archaeological dig during open days adds another layer of fascination, as visitors can witness the uncovering of artifacts that shed light on the site's continuous occupation over 500 years. Reddit

Experiencing the tower is not just about seeing history; it's about feeling it. The tight, steep spiral staircase is a physical reminder of the tower's original defensive purpose, and the panoramic views from the top offer a unique perspective on the city that has evolved around it. The addition of live lute music during some open days further enhances the immersive historical atmosphere, making a visit a truly memorable occasion. Reddit

Navigating the Tower: Access and Views

The ascent through Fishergate Postern Tower is an adventure in itself. The tight, steep stone spiral staircase is a defining feature, requiring careful navigation. While rope handles are installed to aid climbers, visitors should be aware that this access might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues or a strong aversion to confined spaces. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb. Reddit

Reaching the upper levels rewards visitors with spectacular views across the historic city of York. The York Minster is a prominent and breathtaking sight from these vantage points, offering fantastic photographic opportunities. The tower also provides a unique vantage point for appreciating the extent and preservation of the York city walls, allowing visitors to survey the landscape that was once defended from this very structure. Reddit

These views are a significant draw for many visitors, offering a different perspective on York's iconic landmarks. The combination of historical architecture, the physical challenge of the climb, and the rewarding vistas makes Fishergate Postern Tower a compelling stop for those exploring the city walls.