York City Walls Reviews Summary

Scenic Views

Pros:

• "There are several nice views along the relax walk."
• "Lots of historic views and photo opportunities."
• "A magical day, we immersed ourselves in history... incredible views of the city and of course to the magnificent cathedral."
• "An incredible walking view surrounding this great city. A must for visitors."
• "The walk took less than 5km and it was nice so we could stop along the way to see other touristic places."
• "A beautiful way to see York."
• "Lovely walk along the walls of York with some amazing views."
• "Definitely a must, you get an amazing view of the cathedral."

Cons:

• "Some parts of the walk there is no walk and so need to walk on the roadside - just follow the maps and signs."
• "It does narrow in parts and some of the stairwells certainly not recommended if you're in the obese category as you won't fit through."
• "With all the tree's and flowers blooming, most views are obscured."
• "One side of the wall was beautiful, the other side was just steels. We expected both sides would be the same."
• "The view are beautiful and as you go around you can see the cathedral from different angles giving you an idea of how far around the city you have come."

Accessibility and Safety

Pros:

• "It's free to walk this pathway, a great way to feel the history."
• "Medieval walls and it's free to walk this pathway."
• "It's an absolute fantastic way to explore York and see it all from different angles."
• "The walls are free to visit, making them an affordable and accessible attraction for everyone."
• "This is pure ancient history and needs to be walked to gain its full magnitude."

Cons:

• "All in the open - adverse weather beware and dress appropriately."
• "Not good for elderly and infirm as lots of steps."
• "Not disabled accessible."
• "It's not good for people with a fear of heights and drop edges."
• "Parts of the wall also occupy prime locations for taking photographs of this splendid city."
• "Some parts are narrow and barely single file, others have no railings with 8ft open drop sides."
• "No pushchairs on some parts as it's just too narrow."
• "No dogs."

Historical Significance

Pros:

• "Great history, lots of tower stop offs with convenient pubs nearby."
• "The original walls were built around 71 AD, when the Romans erected a fort."
• "A Great way to see this beautiful city. It is open to the public and it is free."
• "Feels good to walk on this piece of quintessential Roman architecture."
• "Walking along a piece of history, learning about it, seeing the sights — and all for free."
• "Amazing to see a piece of history like this, let alone to get to walk along the walls."
• "A real pleasure to walk these walls. The York City walls we can these days see were mainly built in the 13th century."
• "For us as a family, walking the walls was a highlight during our visit to York."

Cons:

• "Though impressive looking, the walls are somewhat inadequate. There are numerous gaps where people are able to freely walk and even drive through."
• "No dogs allowed and keep a hold of young children as some parts of the wall are really high with no safety barriers or railings."
• "Not every city has ancient walls you can walk around!! Great scenery away from the bustling crowds."
• "The walk itself is nice and even, but be aware the staircases are steep and narrow."

Experience and Enjoyment

Pros:

• "Walking along the City Walls was so much fun!"
• "You MUST walk the ancient walls of York City!"
• "I had an amazing experience walking around the York city walls."
• "Really enjoyed being able to see and walk around the old city walls."
• "Wandering round the City Walls is well worth your time."
• "This is a great attraction and totally free."
• "You can get some great photos from the walls but try not to hold people up who are behind you."
• "The York city walls are the perfect self prescribed tour of this gem of a city."

Cons:

• "Beware of rude people who take pushchairs up there, DESPITE some parts being barely single-file."
• "Horrible defense. Realistically our enemies can easily get past these o' old walls."
• "You do need to climb some steep stairs in some parts."
• "There are a few car parks right next to the walls I usually use Foss bank."