
St William's College
Historic college in York, often a starting point for tours, known for its architecture. Check for renovations before visiting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

St William's College
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic college in York, often a starting point for tours, known for its architecture. Check for renovations before visiting.
"Facade covered by scaffolding, limiting views, but a great starting point for tours.
"
Confirm Accessibility First
Scaffolding can block views. Always check recent visitor info before heading out!
Great Tour Starting Point
Many historical tours, like the Bloody Tour, begin here. Great for context!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Courtyard
Exterior
A charming courtyard offering a glimpse into York's architectural past. Often a starting point for local tours.

Architectural Facade
Exterior
Admire the historic building's exterior, showcasing traditional York architecture. Note any visible restoration efforts.

Bloody Tour of York Starting Point
Exterior
A popular meeting spot for the 'Bloody Tour of York,' offering a unique perspective on the city's darker history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Renovations
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Accessibility First
Scaffolding can block views. Always check recent visitor info before heading out!
Great Tour Starting Point
Many historical tours, like the Bloody Tour, begin here. Great for context!
Nearby Food Options
The Shambles courtyard offers decent street food. Perfect for a quick bite!
Historic Building Charm
Appreciate the old houses and architecture that York is known for.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Accessibility First
Scaffolding can block views. Always check recent visitor info before heading out!
Great Tour Starting Point
Many historical tours, like the Bloody Tour, begin here. Great for context!
Nearby Food Options
The Shambles courtyard offers decent street food. Perfect for a quick bite!
Historic Building Charm
Appreciate the old houses and architecture that York is known for.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors note St. William's College's prime location in York's historic center, often serving as a starting point for tours. However, recent reviews frequently mention extensive scaffolding and limited interior access due to ongoing renovations, which can detract from the viewing experience.
"Today I visited the college and found out why there are no reviews. The entire facade is covered by scaffolding and tarps. It has been, apparently for some time. I examined the scaffolding permit and found it expires on April 23, 2018. Hopefully the scaffolding will come down. When it does, you MAY be able to see the courtyard. No one, it seems, is allowed into the interior."
J. wexler
"Was the starting point of the Bloody Tour of York tour was fantastic and a good place to meet the guide Mad Alice"
Thomas Gayler
"Close to St Williams Sundial Pokemon GO Gym"
Phil Smailes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. William's College is located in the heart of York, making it easily accessible on foot from most city center attractions. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from York Station. Numerous bus routes also stop near the city center, a short walk away.
On-street parking is very limited in the historic center of York. It's recommended to use one of the city's park and ride services or public car parks, such as the one at York Station or Coppergate Shopping Centre, and then walk to the college.
Yes, cycling is a great way to explore York. There are cycle racks available in various locations around the city center, though you'll need to find one close to the college. Be mindful of pedestrian zones within the historic core.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. William's College is primarily viewed from the exterior, and access to the interior may be restricted or unavailable due to renovations. Typically, there is no admission fee for viewing the exterior. Always check for current access information.
As the college is often viewed externally, there are no set opening hours. However, if any interior access or specific events are planned, it's best to check local listings or the official York tourism website for any scheduled times.
Past visitor experiences indicate that the college facade has been covered by scaffolding for extended periods. It's crucial to verify the current status of any renovations or access restrictions before your visit.
Access to the interior of St. William's College has been reported as limited or unavailable due to ongoing renovations. Visitors often only get to see the exterior and courtyard.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard offers a picturesque setting for photos. Capturing the architectural details of the building's facade is also popular, though scaffolding can sometimes be an issue.
When accessible, the historic architecture and courtyard provide good photographic opportunities. However, recent reports of extensive scaffolding may impact the visual appeal for photographers.
Interior access is often restricted, so taking photos inside may not be possible. Focus on capturing the exterior charm and any visible courtyard features.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, St. William's College is very close to The Shambles, which has a courtyard with decent street food options. You'll also find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the surrounding historic streets of York.
You can find a variety of food options, from traditional pub fare and British cuisine to international street food. The Shambles area offers quick and casual dining experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Day-Trippers to York
Be sure to check for any ongoing renovations that might affect exterior views. If the college is partially obscured, focus on the surrounding historic streets and consider grabbing a quick bite from the street food vendors in The Shambles courtyard nearby.
History Enthusiasts
While interior access might be limited, the exterior provides a good sense of the building's historical presence. Researching the college's specific history or joining a specialized historical tour can enhance your understanding and appreciation of its significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding St. William's College
Historically, the college has served as a starting point for popular city tours, including the 'Bloody Tour of York,' offering visitors a unique narrative of the city's past. Its proximity to other major attractions like The Shambles makes it a convenient stop for those exploring York's medieval streets.
When planning a visit, it's essential to check for the latest information regarding accessibility and any ongoing restoration work. This will help manage expectations and ensure you can best appreciate the college's historical presence in York.
Navigating York's Historic Center
While walking is ideal, be aware that some areas can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. For longer distances or if you have mobility concerns, consider using local buses or taxis. Parking within the immediate vicinity of the college is extremely limited, so utilizing the city's park and ride services or central car parks is highly recommended.
Many visitors find that combining a visit to St. William's College with explorations of nearby landmarks like York Minster, Clifford's Tower, and the city walls provides a comprehensive experience of York's rich history and architecture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit