Jorvik Viking Centre

The centre’s origins date back to the late 1970s when archaeologists from the York Archaeological Trust excavated the area beneath Coppergate. The dig revealed thousands of artefacts and well-preserved remains of Viking-age streets and buildings. These findings provided a rare glimpse into the everyday lives of the people who lived in Jorvik, showcasing their craftsmanship, trade networks and domestic life. The Jorvik Viking Centre opened in 1984, designed to bring these discoveries to life for the public.

The significance of the Jorvik Viking Centre lies in its ability to make archaeology accessible and engaging. By combining historical research with interactive exhibits, it bridges the gap between academic study and public interest. It has become one of York’s most visited attractions, drawing attention to the city’s rich Viking heritage and contributing to broader discussions about the Viking influence on British history.

What to see at the Jorvik Viking Centre

Visitors can expect a range of exhibits that recreate the sights, sounds and even smells of Viking-age York. The centre’s main attraction is a ride through a reconstructed Viking settlement. This ride takes visitors past detailed scenes depicting daily life in Jorvik, complete with life-like mannequins and authentic sounds. The attention to detail, including period-accurate buildings and activities, offers a vivid portrayal of the era.

In addition to the ride, the centre displays a wide array of artefacts uncovered during the Coppergate excavations. Items include tools, jewellery, pottery and textiles, all carefully preserved and interpreted to provide context about their use and significance. Interactive displays allow visitors to handle replica objects, providing a tactile connection to the past.

The centre also features live demonstrations and costumed guides who engage with visitors, explaining Viking crafts, weaponry and daily routines. These interactions offer further insight into the skills and traditions of the Viking inhabitants of Jorvik. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, focusing on various aspects of Viking life and culture.

Visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre is on Coppergate Walk in the city centre. Most other points of interest in York are no more than a 10-minute walk away.

The centre is open daily and admission is free of charge with the Visit York Pass.

Part of the experience involves a ride in a ‘time capsule’ through recreated Viking scenes. The ride is available in Arabic, English, Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Polish, Russian, Spanish and Swedish.

Children (up to and including age 16) must be accompanied by an adult and one adult can accompany up to five children. This is because the ‘time capsules’ hold up to six people and children on board each capsule need to have adult supervision.

Visitor facilities include a gift shop and its central location means that there are plenty of places nearby to eat and drink.

A visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre typically takes around one to two hours, depending on the level of interest and time spent at each exhibit.