Experience the Magic of Viking York in Winter at JORVIK Viking Centre
From 11 November 2024 to 23 February 2025, visitors to the world-renowned JORVIK Viking Centre will be transported back to the winter months of 10th-century York, marking the first snowfall in 40 years for the recreated Viking-age Coppergate. For the very first time in its 40-year history, JORVIK has undergone a frosty transformation, offering guests an immersive winter experience like no other.
A New Winter Experience for the First Time in 40 Years
The JORVIK Viking Centre has long been known for its vibrant recreation of Coppergate in springtime, but this year, for a limited time, it unveils a fresh winter atmosphere. Inspired by the discovery of Viking ice skates made of bone, JORVIK has brought the ancient streets of York to life in a snowy wonderland, revealing a side of Viking life rarely seen before.
Dr. Howard Jones, chief operations officer at JORVIK, explains, “Since opening in 1984, we’ve always depicted our recreation of Viking-age Coppergate as a snapshot of spring. However, this year, inspired by the discovery of ice skates made from bone, we’ve recreated what the city may have looked like in the midst of winter.”
A Journey Through Snow-Covered Viking York
Upon arrival, guests will be introduced to the rich archaeology of the Coppergate site, where they will learn how the Viking residents of York survived the harsh winter months. Visitors will then board the Time Sleighs for an unforgettable ride through a snowy Viking York, dating back to AD 960. From the quayside to the bustling market stalls, snow has settled everywhere, with the lighting scheme reflecting the chilly winter atmosphere of the period. The immersive ride transports guests into the past, where every building is blanketed with snow and the people of York are wrapped in their winter furs, going about their daily routines in the cold.
Warmth and Winter Tales Await in the Gallery
After journeying through the cold streets of Viking York, guests will find virtual warmth in the gallery area, where a Viking house, complete with a crackling fire, awaits. Here, visitors can enjoy winter-themed tales told by a Viking Skald, exploring Viking gods, monsters, and the equipment needed to survive a Viking winter.
Gareth Henry, head of operations at JORVIK, comments, “York is a fabulous place to visit during the winter – the Christmas markets, the Ice Trail in January, and, of course, the JORVIK Viking Festival in February. We want Winter in Jorvik to be one of the highlights of the season.”
Plan Your Visit to JORVIK Viking Centre
This winter, experience the magic of Viking York like never before. Tickets for A Winter Adventure at JORVIK Viking Centre are available for prebooking at jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk, with prices starting at £11.00 for children, £13.25 for concessions, and £16.50 for adults. Family tickets are available from £46.00, and all tickets are valid for 12 months from the date of the first visit. The event runs until 23 February 2025, offering guests an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Vikings in the snow.
Don’t miss your chance to step into history this winter at JORVIK Viking Centre.