The tower and its Postern Gate
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Fishergate Postern Tower York

4.5
·53 reviews·, United Kingdom

A 1505 medieval tower on York's walls, offering history, steep climbs, and stunning Minster views during rare open days.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late October open days

Limited annual access

CrowdMedium
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The tower and its Postern Gate

Fishergate Postern Tower York

Best Time

Late October open days

Limited annual access

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 1505 medieval tower on York's walls, offering history, steep climbs, and stunning Minster views during rare open days.

4.5
(53 reviews)

"Friendly volunteers make this historic tower a gem, despite its very limited opening days."

Vertical photo
TIP

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead!

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 53 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

The Tower itself

Explore a 1505 tower with four floors, showcasing historical alterations and a later roof addition. Discover masons' marks and immerse yourself in centuries of history.

Panoramic Minster Views

Panoramic Minster Views

Upper floors and roof

Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of York Minster and the surrounding city walls. A perfect spot for memorable photos.

Live Period Music

Live Period Music

Inside the Tower (during open days)

Experience the atmosphere with live lute music that complements the tower's historical setting, adding a unique auditory dimension to your visit.

Archaeological Discoveries

Archaeological Discoveries

On-site dig area (during open days)

Witness ongoing archaeological digs that have uncovered artifacts dating back 500 years, offering a glimpse into the site's rich past.

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Planning Your Visit

Limited Opening Hours

Fishergate Postern Tower is only open for a few days each year, typically in late October. Plan your visit well in advance to catch these limited opportunities. Check their official schedule before traveling to avoid disappointment.

Steep Staircase Access

Access to the upper floors involves navigating a tight, steep stone spiral staircase. While rope handles are provided, those with mobility issues or claustrophobia may find it challenging. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Best Times

When
Late October open days
Why
Limited annual access
Crowd
Medium
When
During live music events
Why
Unique historical ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fishergate Postern Tower will be open on the 15th and 16th of October as part of @yorkunlocked weekend, along with lots of other buildings around the city. No booking necessary, drop in 10 till 4 to see the youngest of the stone towers in York at a mere 517 years old! On the top floor you can also check out a fantastic installation by local artist Peter Baker @peteplasterer. . . . . . . #HistoricA...
friendsofyorkwalls
28 likes • 662 views

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support. Reddit

📍Fishergate Postern Tower • Have you ever noticed this on the outside of Postern Tower? Know what it is? You might avoid it when you find out… • Its open as part of @yorkunlocked this weekend with v knowledgable volunteers there! #york #history #tudors
itsyorklife
143 likes • 8.1K views
An afternoon in York on residents weekend ❤️ i visited Fishergate Postern Tower and Merchant Adventurers Hall today both for the first time (and the Castle Museum but it was too busy in there to film), both were lovely 🥰 watch till the end for some glowing footage of the Minster ☀️ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #composition #focus #video #videography #history #ukshots #explorebritain #castle...
katieglover_photo
173 likes • 2.4K views

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are super friendly & knowledgeable about history. Ask questions! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops of York Minster from the top floors. Reddit

To celebrate #YorkshireDay we've picked out a few fantastic places you can visit for #FREE this September... 🗝️ Fishergate Postern Tower - Peek inside a watch-tower along York’s City Walls! Rarely open to the public, be guided through the tower and climb the spiral staircase for stunning views and a few masons’ marks en route! 📸 FoYW, Alan Fleming 🏛️Rise Hall - Discover hundreds of years of hist...
heritageopendays
28 likes • 5.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📅 Check Opening Dates

The tower is open only a few days a year, usually late Oct. Plan ahead! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Steep, narrow spiral stairs require good footwear. Rope handles available for support. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Volunteers are super friendly & knowledgeable about history. Ask questions! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops of York Minster from the top floors. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Music

Live lute music during open days adds a special atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(53 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who bring the tower's history to life. The unique experience of climbing the steep stairs and the rewarding views of York Minster are highlights. However, the tower's extremely limited opening days are a significant drawback for many.

"Lovely evening walk around the old fortifications, with a great view of the Minster"

Angus Culverwell

"Fishergate Postern Tower dates from 1505. It has four floors and has interesting displays. It was altered and had the roof added at a later date. It is open to the public and the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. You can look for the masons marks. Access to the upper floors is by a tight stone spiral staircase. It is a very interesting place to visit."

Andrew Nell

"Really enjoyed our visit. The staff were really helpful & knowledgeable. There are 3 levels up a steep narrow staircase with rope handle to assist. Great views from the top."

Sarah Wynn

What People Like

Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Historic atmosphere
Great Minster views

What People Dislike

Very limited opening days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fishergate Postern Tower is located within the historic city walls of York. It's easily accessible on foot as part of a walk along the city walls. If arriving by car, park at one of the city center car parks and walk towards the tower. Public transport options to the city center are also available.

Yes, the tower is conveniently situated near many of York's main attractions, including York Minster and the Jorvik Viking Centre. It's a great stop during a walk along the York city walls.

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from York train station to the city walls near Fishergate Postern Tower. Follow signs towards the city center and then the walls.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fishergate Postern Tower has very limited opening hours, typically only open for about 10 days a year, with a common opportunity being in late October. It's crucial to check their official schedule or local listings for exact dates before planning your visit. Reddit

Entry is often by donation or a small fee, especially during its limited open days. The volunteers are usually very friendly and knowledgeable, and donations help maintain the site. Reddit

Given its limited opening, it's advisable to check if advance booking is required or recommended, especially if there are specific events like live music. However, on general open days, it might be possible to enter upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours vary depending on the specific open days. Typically, it's open during daytime hours. Always confirm the exact times for the day you plan to visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find displays detailing the tower's history, including information about its construction in 1505 and subsequent alterations. You can also look for masons' marks and learn about the surrounding area from knowledgeable volunteers. Reddit

Access to the upper floors is via a tight, steep stone spiral staircase. Rope handles are provided for assistance, but it can be challenging for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. Reddit

Yes, the upper levels offer excellent views of York Minster and the historic city walls, making it a great spot for photography. Reddit

During open days, there's often an on-site archaeological dig where visitors can see ongoing excavations. These digs have uncovered artifacts dating back 500 years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. Reddit

Children might find the history and the climb interesting, but the steep, narrow stairs could be a challenge for very young children or those who are unsteady on their feet. Adult supervision is recommended.

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunity is the view of York Minster from the upper levels of the tower. The tower itself, with its historic architecture, also makes for great shots, especially when walking along the city walls. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the tower, allowing you to capture the historical displays and architectural details. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for photographing the tower and the Minster. However, since opening hours are limited, any time during an open day will offer good opportunities.

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