The bars in York's walls are in fact gates, entrances through the fortifications. (To add to the York confusion, gate means something quite different here. It is a local name for "street" and comes from gate, a word from Viking times.)

Most of the bars date back to the 11th century, though they've been modified many times over the centuries. In medieval York they were also toll gates for merchants entering the city to sell goods.

The walls last served a defensive purpose during the English Civil War, when the city was under siege, and some bars still bear damage from bombardment.

The oldest entry was on the site of Bootham Bar. Only Walmgate Bar still has its gatehouse or barbican, though others, such as Micklegate Bar, provided living accommodation right up to the twentieth century. Monk Bar was also fortified.

Two of the bars, Monk Bar and Mickelgate Bar, now house small museums.

Practical Info

Inside the Walls

Walls open till dusk.