JORVIK Viking Centre opened in April 1984 and is celebrating its 40th anniversary! As well as bringing Viking history to life, this summer you can discover more about the story behind JORVIK itself.
York Archaeology’s chief operations officer, Dr Howard Jones explained:
“We are currently operating the fourth version of JORVIK, which leans more heavily than ever before on the archaeology that we discovered on this very site, with our understanding of Viking-age life significantly more advanced than it was 40 years ago, as archaeologists and researchers have continued to analyse materials and soil samples collected from this site back in the late 1970s and early 1980s.”
The ride at JORVIK takes you through a recreation of how Coppergate would have looked as part of the Viking-age city of York. In addition to this, visitors will now enjoy a presentation with a Viking host, a newly built Viking house set, interactive games, replica Viking weapons and a traditional lyre that kids will get to try out. The archives have been raided for footage and photos of the archaeology and early days within the Discover Coppergate area so visitors can learn more about the past 40 years of JORVIK.
One thing that has become almost legendary in York since 1984 will be noticeably absent this summer – the queue around St Mary’s Square! Throughout the six weeks, pre-booking for the centre will be essential, which will keep queueing outside to an absolute minimum.
Everyone will need to book into a 15-minute arrival slot and admissions will be processed quickly so everyone can enjoy the first presentation from an expert costumed interpreter before boarding your time capsule for a trip back in time!
🎟 £16.50 for adults, £13.25 for concessions and £11.00 for children, with under 5s going free. Family tickets are also available for £46.00 (two adults and two children) or £53.00 (two adults and three children). Tickets are valid for 12 months from the date of first admission, meaning visitors can return as many times as they like for a full year.
Tickets for summer 2024 must be pre-booked at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk. For more details, please call 01904 615505.
⏰ A visit takes around an hour
📍Coppergate Centre, York YO1 9WT
ℹ️ Tickets for summer 2024 must be prebooked at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk.