Jorvik Dig

The basics

Jorvik Dig is only accessible on archaeologist-led tours. Tours are timed, and prebooking means you are guaranteed a spot at the time of your choosing. Depending on how busy it is, visitors who turn up at the door without having booked in advance may have to wait for the next available tour. General admission and combo tickets—which include access to Jorvik Dig and other Jorvik Group attractions—are available. Some York sightseeing passes also provide free entry to Jorvik Dig.

Things to know before you go

• Jorvik Dig is great for families thanks to a special area for under 5s, a high level of interactivity, and stroller storage and baby-changing facilities.
• Prebook tickets to ensure a spot at your chosen tour time.
• Jorvik Dig is fully wheelchair-accessible.
• Tickets are valid for 12 months from your first visit, so you can return for up to a year at no extra cost.

How to get there

Jorvik Dig is on St. Saviourgate in central York. Look for green signposts pointing toward the attraction. The 12 and 13 buses connect York station to the Stonebow, which is just a short walk from Jorvik Dig.

When to get there

Jorvik Dig is open daily, and tours take place regularly throughout the day. Weekends and holidays are generally busy, so come on a weekday for a quieter experience.

The excavation pits

Jorvik Dig features four indoor excavation pits filled with synthetic soil, so you can get involved without getting mucky. Receive trowels and tools and, under the instruction of a guide, attempt to unearth replica Roman, Viking, medieval, and Victorian finds. The pits are inspired by real archaeological sites, with the medieval pit based upon the cemetery uncovered at the Gilbertine Priory of St. Andrew at Fishergate. The Victorian pit is modeled on a house that once stood on York’s Dundas Street.