Micklegate Bar York
A 12th-century stone gateway into York, offering access to historic city walls and Tudor history tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Micklegate Bar York
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century stone gateway into York, offering access to historic city walls and Tudor history tours.
"Impressive gateway with striking towers, offering free access to city walls and great views."
🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access the city walls for free from Micklegate Bar for great city views.
👑 Royal History Tours
Join a guided tour to learn about the bar's significant royal and Tudor history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Entry Point
Main city gate
The historic main city gate where royalty entered York, offering a glimpse into centuries of history.
City Walls Walk
Access point from Micklegate Bar
Climb the steps for free access to the city walls, providing excellent views of historic York.
Tudor History Tours
Inside Micklegate Bar
Discover fascinating stories about Tudor history, particularly focusing on Henry VII's era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Onto Historic Walls
Immerse in Tudor Tales
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Micklegate Bar, York, England 🏴
🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access the city walls for free from Micklegate Bar for great city views.
👑 Royal History Tours
Join a guided tour to learn about the bar's significant royal and Tudor history.
Micklegate Bar, one of the remnants of the city walls of York, England [1372x2048] Photographed by Mat Robinson
Good people watching spots?
☕ People Watching Spot
The Micklegate Social nearby offers great window seats for people-watching.
♿ Accessibility Note
Steps to the walls are steep; not ideal for those with mobility issues.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access the city walls for free from Micklegate Bar for great city views.
👑 Royal History Tours
Join a guided tour to learn about the bar's significant royal and Tudor history.
☕ People Watching Spot
The Micklegate Social nearby offers great window seats for people-watching.
♿ Accessibility Note
Steps to the walls are steep; not ideal for those with mobility issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Micklegate Bar for its historical significance and the free access it provides to York's impressive city walls, offering great views. The Tudor history tours are a highlight for many. However, the steep steps to the walls are a noted drawback for those with mobility issues.
"I love history and York is full of history spreading all around. For any history lover this is a fascinating place. This is the main city gate in history from where the King and Queen of England would enter the city of York.
The street where its located is very historical dated back to vikings. So if you’re in York, have a look around."
UK Photo Journey
"Impressive gateway in the city wall, sporting imposing stone towers and striking colourful shields. The walk around the city walls yields some good views over the historic streets of York."
Andrew Thomas
"Micklegate Bar is a twelfth century gateway into York. There are steps up onto the walls. Walking on the walls is free and the best way to get around York and view the city away from the traffic. It's interesting to see inside the bar, and walking tours are available. Not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues."
Andrew Nell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Micklegate Bar is easily accessible on foot within York's city center. It's located at the southwestern end of the city walls. Many bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the train station.
Parking in York city center can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or park in one of the city's Park & Ride facilities and then walk or take a bus.
Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes from York Minster to Micklegate Bar, allowing you to see more of the historic city along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Accessing the Micklegate Bar itself and walking on the city walls is generally free. However, specific historical tours or exhibitions within the bar may require a ticket.
While the city walls are accessible at most times, any internal exhibitions or guided tours within Micklegate Bar will have specific operating hours. It's best to check the official York City Walls website for current times.
No, walking along the historic city walls of York is free for everyone. Micklegate Bar serves as one of the key access points.
It's advisable to book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure the tour is running. Check with local tour operators or the York City Walls information center.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Micklegate Bar, you can explore its historical significance as a royal gateway and learn about its Tudor past. Guided tours often delve into these stories.
Children can enjoy the historical aspect and the walk on the city walls. However, the steep steps might be challenging for very young children or strollers.
The views from the city walls offer a unique perspective of York's historic streets, rooftops, and landmarks, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly at Micklegate Bar. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby cafes or public restrooms before or after your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Micklegate Bar has several cafes and pubs. The Micklegate Social is a popular spot nearby for drinks and people-watching.
No, there are no food or drink vendors directly on the city walls. It's best to grab refreshments before or after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing stone towers and colourful shields of the bar itself. The city walls offer panoramic shots of York's historic skyline.
Yes, the walls provide a stable platform for photography. Be mindful of other walkers and ensure you have a secure grip on your camera or phone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families: Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the edges of the walls. Comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the steps and the wall path. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on the walls themselves. The historical tours can be adapted to be more engaging for younger audiences if booked in advance.
🚶 History Buffs
Must-Do: Take advantage of any guided tours focusing on the bar's history, especially its Tudor connections. Combine your visit with a walk along the entire circuit of the city walls to fully appreciate York's medieval defenses and urban landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Gateway of York
Tudor Significance: The bar holds particular importance during the Tudor period, with tours often focusing on its role and stories from this era, including connections to King Henry VII. The imposing stone towers and striking colourful shields visible today are a testament to its enduring architectural presence and historical narrative.
Accessibility and Experience: While the bar itself is a historical marvel, access to the adjacent city walls involves climbing steps. This makes it a fantastic experience for those able to navigate them, offering unparalleled views. However, it's crucial to note that it's not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges.
Exploring York's City Walls
Free Access and Views: The best part? Walking the walls is completely free! From atop the ramparts, you'll get stunning views of York Minster, the Shambles, and the River Ouse. It's an excellent way to orient yourself and discover hidden courtyards and charming streets.
Practical Considerations: Wear comfortable shoes, as the path can be uneven in places. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when taking photos, and be mindful of other walkers. While there are no facilities on the walls themselves, you can easily hop off at various points to find cafes, restrooms, and attractions.
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