Historic Pub Walking Tour

The Historic Pub Walking Tour is back on Wednesday 29 July, with the group meeting at the junction of Goodramgate and College Street, just outside the National Trust shop. It runs from 7:00pm to 9:00pm, so it's an evening stroll through the city rather than a morning one.

It's an alternative history of York, told through its pubs. Some of them date back to the 16th century, and the tour traces them along with the people and events that happened inside. Much of it is set against Georgian York, a period of huge change and dramatic shifts, and the stories don't stick to one theme. You'll hear about inquests, riots, politics and plagues, alongside religious influences, bizarre entertainments and strange auctions. It's less about the drinks and more about the city's social history, with the pubs serving as the landmarks.

Keith Martin, a volunteer city guide, leads the walk. He's an experienced hand with the city's history, and he does this on a volunteer basis. The tour is highly regarded, with reviewers praising his storytelling and his deep knowledge of York's 2,000-year history. Rather than a fixed ticket price, he asks for a donation to 'Keep Your Pet', a charity scheme run by Age UK York that helps older people look after their pets when health or other difficulties make it hard. It's a good way to see a different side of the city and put a bit of money toward a local cause at the same time.

Booking is free, but a minimum donation of £8.00 per person is requested, which drops to £7.00 per person for groups of four or more. The meeting point is the junction of Goodramgate and College Street, outside the National Trust shop (YO1 7LG), and the tour runs from 7:00pm to 9:00pm on Wednesday 29 July.