Foundry Square Gardens takes its name from the former 19th century iron foundry that was once located on the site. The Walker Iron Foundry was one of a number of large 19th century iron foundries within the city walls of York, but in this case the foundry was to develop a worldwide reputation for quality products.

John Walker (1801-53) became an apprentice ironmonger in 1815 and by 1837 had set up on his own on this site. At first Walker’s commissions were local, for example many of York’s first gas lamps - some of which are still around today - and the railings for St Leonard’s Place were made here.

In 1845-6 the foundry made the gates for Kew Gardens in London and as a result in 1847 Walker was appointed iron founder to Queen Victoria. In 1850 Walker received what was, perhaps, his most famous commission: the gates and railings of the British Museum. The firm ceased trading in 1923 and the site has since been used for light industrial work.

This unique site has enjoyed an exciting past and its transformation from an industrial address into riverside luxury apartments guarantees an exciting future.