Do I need to book?
Tour numbers are limited per guide, so we recommend that tours be booked in advance at this link Book Online. Once you have your ticket (there’s no need to print it out, a mobile version is fine), please arrive at the meeting point at Exhibition Square at least 5 minutes before the designated start time.
If you were not able to pre-book, you may turn at the meeting point up at the start of a tour and, subject to availability, we will try to accommodate you on a tour.
How much does a standard tour cost?
The tours are entirely without charge, the volunteer’s reward is showing the beauty of the City to as many people as possible.
Where does the tour start?
Simply meet your guide by our ‘tour times’ board next to the William Etty statue and the fountains outside the Art Gallery.
Where does the tour end?
The final part of the tour takes us to York’s oldest street, the Shambles.
How long do the tours normally last?
Standard tours last for between two and two and a half hours; incidentally, the tours are easy-paced, there’s no rush!
Do you offer pre-booked group tours?
We do consider pre-booked tours for groups of 10+ visitors outside our scheduled times.
Smaller groups should join a standard tour and book via this link.
For larger groups, please contact us with details of your requirements at least two weeks before your visit to York. For such tours, we suggest a donation of £2 per person to help with our admin costs.
Please visit the Contact Us page for more details and complete the Group Booking Form.
Why is the tour completely free?
Members of the Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York, give their time freely to show as many visitors as possible the historic sites of this most beautiful city.
Are there any restrictions?
Part of the normal tour involves a walk on York’s Bar Walls. Dogs are not allowed on the walls and prams are discouraged. Also, anyone with particular difficulty with steps might find the ascent and descent a problem. In these cases, there is an alternative route where those needing to avoid the walls can rejoin the tour at a pre-arranged point.
Do I need to tip?
Our tours are completely free; there is no need to offer a tip.
Does the tour include going inside York Minster?
No, we do not enter York Minister as part of the tour.
Can I bring dogs on the tour?
Part of the tour includes a section of the Bar Walls, dogs are not allowed on the walls. There is an alternative route where those unable to enjoy the walls can rejoin the tour at a pre-arranged point.
Are children welcome on the tours?
We welcome families with children on our regular two hour walking tours of the city. However, we are unable to offer pre-arranged tours for groups of children under the age of 16.
Do you offer tours in other languages?
Currently, tours are only offered in English.
I’m interested in becoming a voluntary guide, what do I do?
We love welcoming new guides to the Association, please visit our AVG Guide application page or get in touch via the Contact Us page.