Bootham Bar
📍 2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH, UK
About Bootham Bar
Bootham Bar stands as a magnificent medieval gateway, forming a crucial entry point and an enduring segment of York's iconic city walls. Located on High Petergate, this historic landmark boasts stonework dating back to the 11th century, with much of its current structure from the 14th and 19th centuries. Visitors consistently rate it highly for its historical charm and scenic vantage points, reflected in its excellent Google rating of 4.5/5 stars.
As part of the renowned York City Walls, Bootham Bar offers visitors the unique opportunity to walk along these ancient ramparts, providing unparalleled views of the city, including the majestic York Minster. The surrounding area is rich in history, making it an ideal starting point for exploring York's enchanting streets and numerous historical attractions.
Visiting Information
Bootham Bar and the city walls are generally accessible to visitors daily, typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Access to walk the city walls is generally free of charge. Please note that wheelchair accessible parking is not available, and due to its ancient construction, some areas of the city walls may present accessibility challenges.
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📍 2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH, UK
from 302 reviews
Google Reviews
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Showing 5 of 302 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 6 February 2026.
I was staying at a B&B not far from Bootham Bar. It was where I entered the old town/city center of York the first time. The next morning I returned and walked along the old city allas until Monk Bar with excellent views of York Minster. I thoroughly enjoyed walking along the city walls and around the city center of York. An experience I’ll never forget. I recommend especially the Museum Gardens which includes some ruins of Roman York (Eboracum).
Even much of Bootham Bar was built in the 14th and 19th centuries but some of its oldest surviving stonework is dating back to the 11th century. Such nice area and full of history as many interesting points around include York Minster. Bootham Bar is located in very charming street which you can find some pubs, cafes as well as some shops. Its most interesting point during city walls walk with some very nice views.
One of the most architecturally stunning church related building I’ve never been too. An incredible amount of stain glass windows and when the Sun is shining behind them they really are deserving of all the praise that has been bestowed upon them. The trip up the tower definitely worth it, you will see some very unique views over York and the surrounding areas. However you do have to walk up very narrow spiralling steps, 275 of them to be precise, so it’s not suitable for everyone. All in all a good way to spend a few hours when you are in York.
Loved York and all the history, got to walk the wall, went on the Hop on Hop off red bus. Well worth it. The tour guides are amazing with the detail of knowledge that they have acquired. The little shops, The Minster, Guy Fawkes Inn were all memories we will never forget. Thanks York for a great time and expanding our historical knowledge.
Bootham Bar is a good place to start or finish a walk along the city's walls. There are a lot of great pubs within a few yards that sell excellent food. The arch dates from the 11th century, and parts of the bar are newer. It also has a 14th century portcullis. It was damaged during the english Civil War. It's a great place to visit with spectacular views from the walls.