School Itineraries

Sample School Itineraries

Vikings galore!

The JORVIK centre is the ideal place to begin your search of Viking history. Visitors are able to whizz around the reconstruction of the Viking settlement based on real remains and experience what life was really like through the sights, sounds and smells of Viking York. Sample one of the Key Stage 2 workshops which range from Viking Fashion to Battle Tactics! (Allow 1 hour for the visit to the centre and a further hour for the workshop).

For an interactive experience, move onto the DIG. Children will experience the ultimate archaeological adventure and have the opportunity to learn about 2000 years of York's history. Visitors can experience a simulated, realistic excavation and then analyse their findings at 3 work bases. (Allow 2 hours).

Visit Barley Hall, a restored medieval town house where costumed guides re-enact what life was like in the 1400's. It provides a hands on experience for all with the chance to try on costumes. A memorable experience! (Allow 1-2 hours).

Travel on to Murton Park just 3 miles from the City centre and take part in a visit to the Danelaw Viking Village, children will be provided with costumes and carry out a range of activities discovering how villagers worked and lived in a Dark Age Village of wattle and daub. (Allow half a day).

 

Roman York

Exploring Roman York wouldn't be the same without taking a walk on York's City Walls. Dating back to Roman times and originally built as defences, the walls have been added to and rebuilt over time and now have parts from across the centuries. Why not try out ‘Retrace York' the new rubbing trail of the city walls designed specifically for children, free activity packs are available from the Visitor Information Centres. (Allow 2 hours).

York Minster is the largest medieval Gothic Church north of the Alps. It is a prime example spanning from Roman remains in the foundations through its time as a Norman Church and of course the 250 year period it took to complete. The Minster also offers amazing views from the Tower, spectacular stained glass and audio tours of the Undercroft. (Allow 2-3 hours with audio tour and Tower).

Visit the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens to explore some of Britain's greatest archaeological and geological treasures. Try out one of the Roman themed workshops for both Key Stage 1 and 2. (Allow 2 hours for museum visit in total).

A tour of Roman York is the ideal interactive and educational experience for school groups. ‘Travellers in Time' can offer themed guided walks across a range of historical periods both in and outside of the city.

If you plan to stay overnight in the city and are looking for evening activities why not visit Water World on the outskirts of the city where the children can let off some steam and enjoy ‘The Edge', ‘Torpedo Tube' or ‘Rapids Descent'! Or you could enjoy an entertaining performance in one of the city's theatres.

For information about booking group accommodation in York contact our groups desk on 01904 550080 or e-mail schools@visityork.org