Walking Through Medieval York – The City Walls, Bootham Bar & Hidden Corners

There’s something truly magical about walking through York. Every narrow lane, small church, and even the quiet corner of a garden holds traces of the Middle Ages. You don’t just see history here — you feel it under your feet.

Of course, landmarks like York Minster are breathtaking, but today, I want to take you somewhere quieter — those hidden places that whisper York’s stories more softly.

York Oratory

Location: Duncombe Place, York YO1 7EF
Admission: Free

Completed in 1864, this beautiful Gothic Revival church was designed by architect George Goldie. Its ornate stone carvings and stained-glass windows reflect the craftsmanship of the Victorian era. The archway above the main entrance is said to be one of the most intricate examples of Victorian stonework in York.

York City Walls

The York City Walls are the longest and best-preserved medieval city walls in England. Their origins date back to the Roman period around AD 71, though most of what you walk on today was rebuilt during the 13th and 14th centuries.

There are four main gateways — or “Bars” — surrounding the city centre, creating a circular walkway of about 3.4 km. The most popular walking route runs from Bootham Bar → Monk Bar → Walmgate Bar. Note that dogs are not allowed on the walls.

Originally built to protect York from invaders, the walls now offer a peaceful walking trail with stunning city views. You can start near Bootham Bar and follow the ancient stones that once guarded this historic city.

Bootham Bar

Address: 2–4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH

Bootham Bar is one of York’s four principal medieval gateways. Built on Roman foundations and completed during the 14th century, it once served as both a fortified gate and a checkpoint controlling access to the city. Today, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in York, marking the entrance to the City Walls walkway.

I couldn’t help taking photos of this street — the way the stone arch frames the skyline is simply beautiful. From here, you can look down a lane that leads straight towards York Minster — a view that perfectly captures the spirit of the city.

Final Thoughts

York is more than its famous landmarks — it’s a city where history lives in the quiet details. Every archway, every curve of the wall, every shadow falling across old stone tells a story.

In the next post, I’ll take you beyond the walls — into Museum Gardens, where the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey and the Yorkshire Museum reveal another layer of York’s timeless beauty.