Timeline
07:26
Find your spot on the city walls at Foss Islands Road. The Red Tower is the only brick tower in York and stands north of Walmgate Bar. Arrive early to secure a clear view of the sunrise alignment.
08:06
Watch the sun rise directly behind the Red Tower. This alignment occurs between 06 December and 06 January, with the sun appearing at the tower around 08:06 local time on the peak date.
08:36
Walk to Spring Espresso for a warm drink and breakfast. They serve excellent fresh coffee and a selection of pastries, pancakes, and toasts all day. The walk from the Red Tower is about eight minutes.
09:06
Stroll through the Shambles, a medieval shopping street lined with timber-framed buildings. It is the most touristy street in York and is mostly devoted to eateries and gift shops. You can grab a sweet treat or simply enjoy the atmosphere before heading back.
Local tip
The alignment dates are specific. If you are visiting outside the 06 December to 06 January window, the sun will not rise directly behind the tower from this spot. Check the route from the Red Tower to Spring Espresso if you are not familiar with the area.
Check before you go
- Spring Espresso is open Mo-Su 08:00-17:00, so it is open for your post-sunrise coffee.
- The Shambles is a public street and accessible at all hours, though shops may have their own opening times.
Worth knowing
- Sun position is calculated. We have not confirmed the view is unobstructed.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to York (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).