Bootham Bar & The Bars Of York Erected on Roman foundations in the twelfth century and enlarged in the thirteenth century Bootham Bar is probably the most attractive of York's bars (or gates). In 1501 it was ordered that a large door-knocker be attached to the oak doors of the bar and that 'Scottish persons who were wishful to enter York should knock first.' The medieval city walls of York contain 4 main bars: Bootham Bar - NW Monkgate Bar - NE Walmgate Bar - SE Micklegate Bar - SW These are the four principal entrances to the city. Return to the tour