Varrock

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For the Dimension of Disaster location, see New Varrock.
Varrock standard.png

Varrock, originally known as Avarrocka, is the capital city of the kingdom of Misthalin. It serves as a major travel hub for merchants, artisans, diplomats, adventurers, and militants, including features such as the Varrock Palace and the Grand Exchange. As such, Varrock is one of the busiest and most populated city by players in RuneScape.

Varrock encompasses a huge swath of land, from the northern border of the Wilderness to the mountain pass of Silvarea to the east to the farmlands of Misthalin to the south. It is the largest city for non-members and the third largest city overall behind Prifddinas and Meiyerditch. The variance of shops, including basic equipment for all three combat styles, make the city ideal for newer players, while the only non-members Grand Exchange and two guilds offer value for more experienced players and traders.

Getting there[edit | edit source]

Its position as a centre of commerce makes Varrock a vital area. Its success as a city is greatly due to its easy-to-reach location. There are many ways to reach Varrock, ranging from teleports and hot air balloons to hidden underground passages.

Transportation Options in Nearby Areas[edit | edit source]

There are many methods of reaching nearby areas, such as the Senntisten Teleport spell, the Dig Site pendant, the skull sceptre, the ancient magicks' Edgeville Home Teleport, and several others. From these places it is possible to travel to Varrock fairly quickly.

  • Edgeville Dungeon - A shortcut exists that allows players to travel between Edgeville Dungeon and the Varrock Sewers. Using this, players can exit the sewers and find themselves on the city's east side. This requires level 51 Agility.
  • Mine carts - Players can travel to and from Keldagrim from the mine cart trapdoor located in the north-west Grand Exchange. Players must have started The Giant Dwarf quest to use this method.
  • On Foot - There are several entrances to Varrock, outlined in the previous section.
  • By the use of a wicked hood that has consumed an earth talisman (or tiara). Choose the 'teleport' option and select 'earth'. This will bring you just south of the lumber yard, fairly close to the east gates.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Economy[edit | edit source]

Varrock's position near trade routes such as the River Lum makes it an ideal point of gathering for traders and merchants. Misthalin is a nation split largely in two; The city of Varrock itself and the Lumbridge/Draynor area. Lumbridge and Draynor have proven to be largely agricultural, while Varrock is somewhat more advanced in nature, focusing on industry and trade. Although the city does produce a somewhat large amount of crops itself, much of the city's food supply comes from the neighbouring settlements that make up much of Asgarnia and Misthalin. Other goods are imported from nearly every nation in Gielinor.

The city also exports many important resources. Its goods are often recognised as superior, often fetching a higher price than those crafted in other areas. One of the city's largest exports is metal armour. The city also produces large amounts of timber, as is evident in the Lumber Yard north-east of the city. Crops are also exported, although most are kept within the city to feed the masses. Varrock exports "some of everything", as can be seen from the vast amounts of traders going to and from the city with exotic goods.

The fiefs of Varrock are amongst the most important in the world, producing the nation's currency, known most simply as coins[1]. The Varrockian coin is, much like the rest of the world's coins, crafted from gold. On one side of the coin is the Varrockian crest, whilst on the other is depicted the famed Shield of Arrav.[2]

Perhaps the city's most important aspect is its capacity for trade. Thousands of players travel to Varrock each day, where many sell their goods in the city's bustling streets. The city's dependence upon trade can be seen most clearly at the Grand Exchange, the trade capital of Gielinor. This market, which is by far the largest in the known world, allows players to buy and sell goods across all worlds and to all players.

Politics[edit | edit source]

Varrock is currently under the rule of King Roald and his wife Queen Ellamaria. Since Varrock is a monarchy, King Roald's job is quite burdensome, and although he is a popular king that seeks the best for his people, he has become quite dependent on his advisors. This has caused criticism from some of the city's residents. Aeonisig Raispher, King Roald's religious advisor, has recently been criticised for his views on the Edicts of Guthix, which are currently preventing a war between Misthalin and Morytania. Believing that a war of such magnitude could result in the destruction of the world, Aeonisig has convinced the king not to declare war, although a mercenary protocol was recently instilled. Despite some flaws, King Roald is generally popular amongst the city's community. The city's anti-Zamorakian policy, however, makes him a constant target for assassination, and only the protection of the Varrock Palace Secret Guard keeps him safe. But even though King Roald has plenty of guards for protection, he usually panics and doesn't have time to talk.

Varrock is a very diplomatic city, and has established ties with most of the world's nations. Varrock is famous for being the beginning of the Bank of RuneScape, a business that, since its creation, has spread to all corners of the world. In modern times, in order for a city to possess any commerce whatsoever, a branch of the Bank of RuneScape is almost always necessary. To have a branch in ones' city, the Bank of RuneScape must approve. Doing so opens up many opportunities for diplomatic ties between the nations, and greatly contributes to Varrock's economy. Partially because of this, Varrock has ties with nearly every nation in the world, including Asgarnia, Kandarin, the Gnome settlements, the Fremennik Province, Karamja, the Feldip Hills, several islands in the Southern Sea, the Kharidian Desert, TzHaar, Keldagrim and the rest of the Dwarven Realm, and Dorgesh-Kaan. Even areas such as Zanaris, Morytania, Isadfar, and the Wilderness now have banks, though currently not the Ape Atoll.

Military[edit | edit source]

Varrock Palace's south side as seen from the roof.

Varrock's military is amongst the largest in the known world, apart from Falador. The threats of Morytania, the Wilderness, and the various Zamorakian organisations (such as the Dagon'hai and the ZMI) in the area are ever-looming and not easy to ignore. Indeed, dawn in Varrock is permeated by a dull green light caused by the sun's rays passing through the swamplands of Morytania in the east, reminding all of the eastern threats.

To combat these threats, Varrock must be ever-ready for war. The city is surrounded by thick stone walls, made more powerful by the presence of spear walls, gate houses, and numerous guards. These large structures and men keep Varrock in greater security with a layered defence. The military consists largely of guards armoured in recognisable yellow uniforms who are capable of dealing with some threats, but large-scale assaults upon the city require the assistance of the king's knights. Largely elusive, Varrock's knights are rarely seen; only Sir Prysin shows himself regularly. The reason for this is unknown, although some speculate that Varrock's knights are more suited to espionage. The Varrock Palace Secret Guard is also an important military group within the city, as they protect the many important figures that enter the palace, including King Roald himself.

Varrock's military has not been called upon for some years now, and so are currently playing a greater role as guards and policemen. Recently resurfaced threats may pose new threats to Varrock though, so the city's army may soon fight once again. The combined might of the city guards, knights, the Varrock Palace Secret Guard, concerned citizens, and helpful adventurers may prove to be the greatest deterrence to external and internal threats the city may face in times to come.

Religion[edit | edit source]

A player praying to a Saradomin altar in Varrock, via the older animation.

Although the government does not control its people's religious views, the majority of the city's residents are Saradominists. The importance of Saradominism has been stressed since Varrock's creation, and because of this, the nation's views have changed very little throughout its history. The Church of Saradomin holds a good deal of political power in Varrock and have at times formed an Inquisition. Despite the large numbers of those who worship Saradomin and the influence of Saradomin on the society, church attendance is low.

Although it is theoretically legal to worship Zamorak, the majority of Zamorakians are persecuted, even those who are law-abiding and peaceful. After the burning of the first Wizards' Tower, Varrock's prosecution of Zamorakians increased dramatically: as in the rest of the world, those who were once grudgingly tolerated were persecuted and shunned. A Zamorakian priest is currently imprisoned in Varrock Palace, his cell bearing an inscription warning citizens not to worship Zamorak. In recent times, however, the city has become more tolerant. Although Zamorakians are usually shunned by the public, a church dedicated to Zamorak was constructed in the south-east part of the city, though it is unclear as to whether it is a legal organisation or operates in secret. The church suffers a good deal of persecution by residents, and is often vandalised. The most famous of these incidents, perhaps, was performed by the Wise Old Man, who, backed by a group of friends, wrote "Saradomin Pwns" on the side of the church.

A minority of citizens of Varrock worship Guthix. Commander (later Captain) Korasi of the Void Knights, a Guthixian army that fights against the pests of the Void, hails from Varrock; she was introduced to the organisation by a visiting Void Knight who would tell stories of her works. In Korasi's memory, Korasi recalls that the Void Knight was not well-liked among the people whom she knew, who cautioned her not to speak with the Void Knight in her childhood. Fascinated with the Void Knight's job and stories of adventure, however, Korasi later joined the Void Knights and eventually rose in leadership ranks within the organisation.

Zaros was historically worshipped in the region, especially prior to the founding of the current city. The former city of Senntisten, on the ruins of which Varrock is built, was a Zarosian stronghold at least from the Second Age until the cataclysmic God Wars of the Third Age, at which time the Zarosians were defeated and Zamorakians took over. The area was later claimed by the Saradominists, around roughly year 3704 of the Third Age with the founding of the Saradominist city of Saranthium. The Saradominists destroyed what trace evidence remained of Zaros's existence as far as possible. From that time, Zaros's worship in the region was largely forgotten, until relatively recent history brought to light the history of the followers of Zaros in modern-day Varrock many years later.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Varrock Square, in the center of the city

Varrock's culture is not as obvious or monolithic as many of the cultures of Gielinor, largely due to the city's large amount of commerce and many visitors from different parts of the land. There is a stylistic variety exhibited in the cultural features of the city, including the arts, craftsmanship, and cuisine. The common tongue is the main language spoken within the city.

Cuisine[edit | edit source]

Varrock cuisine varies, consisting largely of grain-based food such as pies, cakes, and pastries. Pastries may be widely arranged in Varrock due to the Chef's Guild and their pies. Other reasons may be just due to NPC's likings. Meat and fish are also immensely popular, with large amounts brought in from Port Sarim every day. Other dishes varying from stew to pizzas are less common, but still popular because of the city's large degree of visitors. The tourists, and individuals come in from different estates, towns, and regions– there are bound to be different likes and dislikes about food.

The cuisine of Varrock has been heavily influenced by the Cooks' Guild that is located just outside of the city. Many cooks that practice and learn at the guild stay and resupply at Varrock meaning the city has been influenced by the constant influx of chefs from the guild.

Some of the city's less wealthy cannot easily afford meat, and so Varrock relies largely on crops grown both within the city and from neighbouring townships such as Lumbridge and Draynor Village. Some of the city's most vital crops include onions, potatoes, grain, tomatoes, grapes, redberries, and cabbage. However, since adventurers have grown more adept at farming in recent years, the city now sees a steady supply of foreign crops such as hops, barley, oranges, apples, sweetcorn, bananas, watermelons, strawberries, curry, lemons, limes, papayas, coconuts, tea, equa leaves, dwellberries, pineapples, and numerous others.

Tea is very popular in Varrock. Most Varrockians drink tea multiple times each day, often becoming part of their daily routines. Also popular are beer and wine, which, although simple, are staple drinks for most of the city's residents. This has created some crime-related problems for the city, although the dwarves are far more fond of ale than most humans.

The Arts[edit | edit source]

Varrock Palace Garden as seen from the castle's roof.

Varrock is a city well known for its artistic history. It is within the city that much of Gielinor's literature has been written, and where many well-known paintings and statues were created.

Varrock is seen by many as the scholarly capital of Gielinor. The Library of Varrock, found within the city's palace, is the most famous in the world, due to its wealth of information. Within the library are the writings of many famous Varrockian historians and scholars, as well as many from further afield. Well-known texts such as the Dagon'hai history, The Tale of Arrav, and the history of the Barrows can all be found within it. Varrockian writers often put a large amount of emphasis on the city's status, praising Varrock and Saradomin. While this does keep the city's morale high, it does often raise the question of factuality in Varrockian texts. Heroic tales are also popular, telling of legendary Varrockian heroes and explorers such as Arrav, Wally, Dionysius, Samuel Scourduel, and The Seven Priestly Warriors.

Craftsmanship is also valued highly in Varrock. One of the city's main industries comes from Smithing, which is practised by many of the city's residents. Armour crafted in Varrock is highly valued, being second only to that crafted by the dwarves. Working with stone and cloth is also fairly common. The statues at the city's centre are a perfect example of the craftsmanship of the city.

Crime and theft issues[edit | edit source]

The impoverished area of Varrock

Varrock is the largest of the capitals of the three main human kingdoms, surpassing Falador and East Ardougne considerably. Its large size has, however, given it the highest crime rate of the three. Varrock is split largely in two, with the two sections being quite different. While the north side of Varrock (which includes the Grand Exchange and Varrock Castle) is clean and wealthy, much of the city's two southern portions suffers from a great deal of poverty, urban decay and the presence of stray dogs and pigeons. Most of the buildings are very old and have long since begun to rot and crumble. Those that live on the city's south side are often farmers that have come to the city from the more agricultural areas of Misthalin, only to find that their lack of education prevents them from making much headway.

Many of those in the south side are forced to resort to violence. Muggers, thieves, and gangs roam the streets in numbers too large for the city's guards to suppress. Unfortunately, those on the northern side of the city do little to help this; many are unaware of it in the first place. The city's two most prominent gangs, the Black Arm Gang and the Phoenix Gang, have caused problems in recent years, even managing to steal the Shield of Arrav.

History[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock/History

Varrock's history is a unique one, one that has largely shaped the world as we know it today. The city was founded in the Fourth Age by one of the Elders of Avarrocka, and was for many years little more than a small farming settlement. Troubled by goblins and aggressive tribes, its existence was always threatened. Only the intervention of heroes such as Arrav and the Seven Priestly Warriors saved it from the threats that constantly lurked on the horizon.

When runes were discovered in the Fifth Age, Varrock ascended to a position of power that left it amongst the most powerful cities in the world. Since then, it has grown into Gielinor's largest city. For a full guide to the long and twisting history of the Varrock, see Varrock/History.

Entrances[edit | edit source]

Varrock east entrance
Varrock south entrance

Varrock has four main gates, all of which are open to the public. Each is guarded by several level 36 guards, although they are not aggressive. However, the guards are commonly used to train against for mid-levelled players.

The north gate can be found near the Wilderness wall and is commonly used by those travelling to Wilderness Volcano or exploring the Wilderness. The east gate can be found after following the northern path at the crossroads near northern Al Kharid. The west gate can be reached by travelling east from the rustic Gunnarsgrunn, although the gate itself is actually very large due to the construction of the Grand Exchange. The south gate can be reached by travelling north-west from Lumbridge. Near it is the Stone Circle, where many level 7 and 20 dark wizards can be found. In the past, these wizards were aggressive and dangerous to players lower than 41, but are no longer so due to the city being a part of the Starting area of RuneScape.

There are also several other less-official entrances. By travelling north from the road east of the Gunnarsgrunn, players can enter the Grand Exchange, and from there the Varrock Palace grounds. An agility shortcut north-west of the Grand Exchange can be used by Members with 21 agility, running two-way between Varrock and Edgeville.


Banks[edit | edit source]

Varrock West Bank logo.png

Varrock's banks are located near the east gate and near the west gate. They are very large buildings, and are easy to spot. They are great places to buy and sell items, as many players tend to congregate at these two banks. There is also a third bank in the Cooks' Guild, which was added as part of the Varrock Achievements.

East Bank[edit | edit source]

The east bank used to be a very popular place to buy and sell items to other players. Added to the fact that the bank is very small, this resulted in an overly populated bank on busy worlds, which could cause lag on some slower internet connections.

It is often used to bank rune essence, freshly mined at the Rune Essence mine, from Aubury's Magic shop, a little ways south of the bank. As this is one of the fastest ways to get rune essence without buying it, the bank often sees many rune essence miners. The Wizards' Guild master Zavistic Rarve can teleport to the Rune Essence Mine, but as entry requires level 66 Magic and the guild is located in (members-only) Yanille, many prefer Aubury.

Some of the most common items seen for sale here were rune essence, and player killing goods such as food, lower-levelled weapons and armour, runes, and potions. This has however stopped with the introduction of the Grand Exchange.

The east bank also has a 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US]. This floor is much quieter than the main floor, but it has a gold statue of the Wise Old Man and maybe the riches he stole in the Draynor Bank Robbery.

Many patrons use the East Bank as a drop off for rune essence or ores from the mine to the south of the bank.

West Bank[edit | edit source]

The interior of Varrock's west bank
The bank's underground vault

This was the first and initially then the only bank in RuneScape. In its early days, the Bank of Varrock stored only gold in its accounts. The West Bank used to be extremely crowded before the update releasing the Grand Exchange, however it still remains a popular free-to-play bank.

Before the release of the Grand Exchange, things such as big bones, logs, feathers, and many miscellaneous items were sold here. On trading worlds, the outside area of the bank was often used for buying high level armour and weapons, such as rune. Further back is a great place to buy discontinued or rare items such as holiday drops and treasure trail rewards.

The west bank also has a 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US] and a basement. There is nothing on the 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US], though it is much quieter than the main floor.

The basement contains a south room with coins, one gold ore, one brass necklace, one gold bar, a gold necklace, and a ruby ring behind a locked door. Players who have a Magic level of 33 or higher may use the Telekinetic Grab spell to obtain all the items except for the ruby ring. There is also a spawn of 3 coins on the floor to the north-east of the basement, directly in front of the stairs. The door can't be unlocked and doesn't show as a door on the mini map.

This is also a common place for people who want to improve their Smithing skill as there is an anvil directly opposite the bank, in a small run-down building.

There is one door that players cannot enter, but which does have a "knock-at" option. This allows players to tell knock-knock jokes to the teller behind the door. When the "kncok-at" option is used, the teller says "who's there?", after which the dialogue options are "Kanga", "Thank", "Boo", or "Doctor" (all of which are references to common knock-knock jokes).

Cooks' Guild Bank[edit | edit source]

This bank lies within the Cooks' Guild, players are required to have level 32 Cooking and be wearing either a chef's hat, a cooking Cape of Accomplishment, or if they own a set of Varrock armour 3, the player may enter without anything worn. This is Varrock's only members' bank.

Grand Exchange bank[edit | edit source]

A total of four bankers are at the Grand Exchange, with one at each side. Here players often withdraw items they plan to place in the exchange. Players also gather around the area and sell their items outside of the grand exchange. The ease of banking and the relatively large space makes this a popular training place for Firemaking and Cooking. Many players also advertise for merchanting clan chats here, specifically in the more crowded trading worlds such as World 3 and World 2.

Shops[edit | edit source]

Varrock General Store[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock General Store

Varrock's general store is one of the most popular stores in the game. New players can buy a Newcomer map which can help them find their way around the free version of RuneScape and help them to start earning money

Players can sell whatever they wish at the store, though mainly low level players sell their items, which are often not wanted by higher level players. It is also hard to sell items to this general store as many people sell their items here, causing the store's inventory limit to be reached very easily.

Varrock Swordshop[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock Swordshop

At the southern entrance is a store where players can buy swords. The store sells bronze, iron, steel, black, mithril and adamant daggers, swords and longswords. Along with the Rune Shop in the Champions' Guild, non-members players have access to buy all but two swords without interaction with other players.

Dealga's Scimitar Emporium, a members shop selling Dragon scimitars, is also situated within, but is not part of, this store.

Thessalia's Fine Clothes[edit | edit source]

Main article: Thessalia's Fine Clothes

Thessalia's Fine Clothes sells several types of clothes including robes, capes, gloves, and boots. Thessalia will also change a player's default clothing for free. Players who were lucky enough to obtain a scythe when they were dropped, can retrieve it from this store if it is lost. Players can also attain unique outfits award from random events such as the prince outfit from Iffie located in her rocking chair in the store.

Fancy Clothes Store[edit | edit source]

Main article: Fancy Clothes Store

There is also a clothing store in the south-eastern part of the city selling many variants of clothing. It features heavily in the Hunter skill, and players can trade their furs here for camouflage and other Hunter gear.

Zaff's Superior Staves[edit | edit source]

Main article: Zaff's Superior Staves

Near the centre of Varrock is Zaff's Superior Staves!, a store where players can purchase staves for magic.

Zaff sells staves to free-to-play players. What some to believe be Zaff's son Naff sells battlestaves for use in the Crafting skill. Each day he gets a stock of battlestaves that can be sold in limited quantities depending on which tier Varrock armour the player has. If they don't have any of tiers of the armour, Naff will only sell them 8 battlestaves.

Horvik's Armour Shop[edit | edit source]

Main article: Horvik's Armour Shop

Horvik's Armour Shop is near the centre of Varrock. Here, players can buy platebodies and chainbodies as well as platelegs and some leather armour. Many players also sell their smithed armour here for a profit.

His shop is also unusual because it has an anvil inside it for players to use. It, however, does not include a furnace.

Aubury's Rune Shop[edit | edit source]

Main article: Aubury's Rune Shop

In the south-east corner of Varrock is the Aubury's Rune Shop. Here, players can purchase most types of runes or be teleported to the rune essence mine. Players must come here and speak to Aubury twice during the old Rune Mysteries Quest.

Lowe's Archery Emporium[edit | edit source]

Main article: Lowe's Archery Emporium

To the east of Varrock General Store is Lowe's Archery Emporium, a store which sells items designed for players who use the Ranging skill.

Lowe sells all free-to-play types of bows and arrows as well as crossbows and bronze bolts.

Pelters' Veg Stall[edit | edit source]

Main article: Pelters' Veg Stall

Near Varrock Square is Pelters' Veg Stall. The store is owned by a tramp and does not supply the freshest of vegetables. He sells rotten tomatoes to throw at players in the pillory.

Ye tea Shoppe[edit | edit source]

Main article: Tea stall

The stall is located in eastern Varrock and is operated by the Tea seller. He sells cups of tea for 10 coins each. Players may steal from it with level 5 Thieving.

Rogue jewellery shop[edit | edit source]

The Rogue jewellery shop, in Varrock, is a place to sell unenchanted and strung gold jewellery. It is unlocked as a reward for releasing the rogue from the Rogue's Castle in Deep Wilderness after finishing the Summer's End quest. The rogue only buys unenchanted and strung jewellery, including jewellery with gems (also in noted form).

Varrock fur stall[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock fur stall

Baraek Brigson buys and sells furs, most notably both Bear and Grey Wolf furs.

Varrock Herald Stall[edit | edit source]

Main article: Benny

Benny is the owner and sole employee of the Varrock Herald, the city's largest newspaper. Players may purchase a copy of the Varrock Herald from Benny, who owns a newsstand in Varrock Square.

Urist's Crafting Supplies[edit | edit source]

Main article: Urist's Crafting Supplies

Urist Loric is a dwarf that owns a crafting stall in Varrock Square. After players complete From Tiny Acorns, a caper following the Buyers and Cellars quest, Urist sells basic crafting supplies such as moulds and chisels.

Dealga's Scimitar Emporium[edit | edit source]

Main article: Dealga's Scimitar Emporium

Dealga is an intelligent monkey who operates from the same building as the Varrock Swordshop. Dealga sells dragon scimitars, provided the player has completed the Monkey Madness quest. Wearing a Monkeyspeak amulet is not required to open the shop.

Estate Agent[edit | edit source]

Main article: Estate Agent

The estate agent is a salesman that owns a small office in northern Varrock. Although he does not sell any actual items, the estate agent can help players to customise their player-owned house for a fee.

Varrock Tanner[edit | edit source]

The relatively new tanner south of the West bank and anvil will tan hides like any other tanner in Runescape. He does not sell any items, and the release of his store reduced the size of a building next to his, which is two stories high but used to have a balcony on the 2nd floor[UK]3rd floor[US] and a larger 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US].

Trees[edit | edit source]

Varrock north gate as seen from a bird's eye view

Varrock is situated in a forest, and while much of the area closest to Varrock has been deforested to make room for the city's expansion, many trees can still be found in and around it. Many regular trees can be found within the city, while many more can be found growing around it. Inside the city are four yew trees, three of which can be found behind the palace, making the area quite crowded, while the fourth is south of the Church of Saradomin. To the south of the city are many willow trees, while there are several oak trees directly southwest of the west bank. Additionally, to the east of the city are several more yew trees. Until recently, most of these trees were crowded with macros, but since the removal of unbalanced trade, most have left.

A tree patch is located within the Palace's outer walls, near the castle's east entrance. It allows members to grow wood trees.

Altars[edit | edit source]

Varrock has a total of three altars within its walls. The only gods with churches in the city are Saradomin and Zamorak.

Altars of Saradomin[edit | edit source]

  • The Varrock Palace altar - located on the 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US], towards the rear of the palace
  • Varrock chapel - located in the north-east corner of the city and presided over by Father Lawrence

Altars of Zamorak[edit | edit source]

  • Altar of Chaos - located south of Aubury's Rune Shop in the south-east corner of the city. Players can talk to a Zamorak Mage here after completing his miniquest. The Wise Old Man came here in his youth days, as he grew up in Varrock, and wrote "Saradomin pwns" on the wall.

Bars[edit | edit source]

Varrock and the surrounding area has four bars, all of which sell only beer.

The Blue Moon Inn[edit | edit source]

The Blue Moon Inn.

The Blue Moon Inn is a very popular bar in Varrock. One-Eyed Hector once stayed at the inn.

Players can find a couple of NPCs here besides the bartender, which include an unnamed Barbarian Woman, the ex-vampyre slayer Dr. Harlow, a very drunk man (who plays a part in the free-to-play quest Vampyre Slayer), A Tramp in the back room of the store, and the fat Jonny the Beard (who drops the Intel Report, used for Shield of Arrav). During Garden of Tranquility, you discover that the Queen of Varrock once worked in the Blue Moon Inn as a barmaid. During Pirate's Treasure, the clue to One-Eyed Hector's treasure is on the 1st floor[UK]2nd floor[US] of the bar.

Prior to the release of RuneScape 2, The Blue Moon Inn was a popular party spot for mid- to high-levelled RuneScape players. In fact, one could usually find a party there every night. This practice continued for a couple years into RuneScape 2, situated in worlds 1 and 3, but has since then died out, however there are a few clans dedicated to reviving this practice.

Dancing Donkey Inn[edit | edit source]

The Dancing Donkey Inn is unknown to most of Varrock because it is in the corner of the city where only members may buy goods. Unlike the Blue Moon Inn, it does not double as a hotel.

While there, players may stumble upon the three drunken NPCs here: Hops, too drunken to speak; Da Vinci, who hates non-members; and Chancy, who loves to gamble.

This is one of the locations visited in the Alfred Grimhand Barcrawl miniquest.

The Jolly Boar Inn[edit | edit source]

The Jolly Boar Inn is actually outside the Varrock city walls, but is still considered a Varrockian bar because it is within the vicinity. Like the Blue Moon Inn, the Jolly Boar doubles as a hotel, and there is an occupant for a room, the very tired Johnathon (part of the Family Crest Quest).

There are many NPCs here, one woman, two men, and a Black Knight, though none of them are drunk.

Also prior to the release of RuneScape 2 (and in its early stages), Dr. Harlow could be found at The Jolly Boar Inn rather than the Blue Moon Inn.

This is one of the locations visited for the Alfred Grimhand Barcrawl miniquest.

Guilds[edit | edit source]

Varrock plays home to two guilds, both of which can be found outside the city walls. At these guilds, experienced adventurers and residents gather to hone their skills and use their abilities. The bank in the Cooks' Guild is for paying members only and the arena under the Champions' Guild is for members too.

Dungeons[edit | edit source]

Varrock's underground is an expansive one. Filled with dungeons, caverns, and tunnels, the city's reputation for adventure does not limit itself to the surface world. Often the city's underground proves to be the most exciting; and dangerous.

  • Varrock Sewers - Varrock's largest dungeon, large enough to connect even to Edgeville Dungeon. With monsters with levels up to 42 such as moss giants wandering the dank passages, this is one of the most popular destinations in the city. Be warned, however: many lower levelled adventurers have lost their lives within. Found east of the Palace.
  • Tunnel of Chaos - This reality-warping tunnel is the home of the Dagon'hai. This tunnel can be used as a shortcut to reach the Chaos altar. Found north-east of Varrock.
  • Champions' Guild Basement - Beneath the Champions' Guild is the Champion's Challenge. Here some of the world's greatest warriors have gathered, each seeking to bring honour and power to their race.
  • Dungeon of Tolna - Tolna left his mother when he was a boy, seeking adventure. He fell into a crevice, where he was trapped for many years. An evil emanating from the Varrock Dig Site drove him insane, his twisted mind creating a cave system unlike any other. Found near the path to Paterdomus.
  • Phoenix Gang Hideout - It is in this small dungeon that the Phoenix Gang makes its base. Here some of the city's most wanted criminals can be found. Found in the city's south side.

Other buildings of interest[edit | edit source]

Grand Exchange[edit | edit source]

Main article: Grand Exchange
The Grand Exchange in Varrock

The Grand Exchange allows players to post trades accessible across all servers. Members have up to six slots to trade, while non-members have two. This large plaza, found in the north-west of the city, is the largest marketplace in the known world. It has become very popular and has become the new trading post, trading items in the Grand Exchange and beside it.

Paterdomus[edit | edit source]

Main article: Paterdomus

The Paterdomus Temple was constructed hundreds of years ago, some time after the God Wars. It was at this location that six of the Seven Priestly Warriors of Misthalin were slain during a massive battle as they held back the invading forces of Morytania, who had recently conquered Hallowvale. Only Ivandis Seergaze survived.

The Paterdomus Temple, which is found at the end of a long, winding path east of Varrock, was constructed over a small section of the River Salve, and served as the first line of defence against the darkness beyond. The river was soon blessed to prevent the evil on the other side from crossing, and the Paterdomus became more of a symbol of Saradomin than an actual military outpost.

The temple was recently captured by Zamorakian priests who sought to re-establish contact with Morytania. One lone monk, Drezel, is the only remaining Saradominist priest at the Paterdomus.

Dig Site[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock Dig Site

The Dig Site is a large excavation area where archaeologists, scientists, and a few treasure hunters have gathered from all over Misthalin, Asgarnia, and Kandarin. The recently discovered ruins are all that remain of a pair of cities known as Senntisten and Saranthium. Senntisten was the most massive city in the history of Gielinor, and was said to stretch all the way from the Dig Site to Edgeville. It was, to many archaeologists' interest, the capital city of the ancient god Zaros. Saranthium was built to cover up the evidence of Senntisten.

Today, the ruins are excavated around the clock in search of ancient artefacts to ship to the Varrock Museum. Many items, including pottery, armour, altar pieces, bones, and gold can be found in large quantities in the area, and new discoveries are being made every day. However, some evil still seems to surround the area, as is evident in the nearby Dungeon of Tolna.

Varrock Palace[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock Palace

Varrock Palace is by far the city's largest structure, spanning three main floors and several massive towers. It is from the palace that King Roald and Queen Ellamaria rule Misthalin. The palace also houses the city's military, serving as Varrock's main defensive fortification. Within the palace politicians and diplomats from all over Gielinor gather, seeking to strengthen their bonds with the kingdom.

The palace contains a small chapel, where the city's nobility and warriors show their fealty to Saradomin. On the ground floor[UK]1st floor[US] is the famous Library of Varrock, where scholars gather in droves to study from its many texts. Within the palace are many important features, including a dining area, the throne room, a kitchen, barracks, and nobles' rooms. Outside the palace is a large garden.

Surrounded by stone walls, sentries, spear walls, trenches, and barricades, to claim the palace would be nearly impossible for invaders. Towering high into the sky, the palace serves as a constant reminder to the city's enemies and as a sign of the might of the human race.

Varrock Museum[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock Museum
A model red dragon on display in the Varrock Museum's Natural History exhibit.

The Varrock Museum is the largest (and one of very few) museums in RuneScape. Until recently, it had very few exhibits on display, and was an area avoided by most. However, city's government recently donated a massive sum of money to the museum, which has allowed it to expand into RuneScape's most history-rich area.

The Varrock Museum receives many of its artefacts from the Dig Site. In fact, the museum's ground floor[UK]1st floor[US] is dedicated entirely to the Dig Site's finds, with many coins, tablets, and pottery on display. There is also a specimen cleaning area, where players who have passed their archaeological exams may clean rock samples in search of artefacts.

The second and 3rd floor[UK]4th floor[US] contains cases dedicated to the history of RuneScape, arranged in a convenient timeline format. The timeline, which begins at the beginning of the First Age and stretches on all the way to the present day. The underground area of the museum, meanwhile, houses life-size clockwork displays of some of RuneScape's creatures, with information ranging from the simple monkeys of Karamja to the (formerly presumed) extinct dragon-like wyverns. Players with helpful information may also contribute to the museum.

Stone circle[edit | edit source]

The Stone Circle.

The stone circle south of Varrock was once owned by the Druids of Taverley, a group of Guthixians that sought to create a place of worship in the city. It was recently captured and corrupted by Zamorakian dark wizards, who are now using it for their dark purposes. Before the Demon Slayer quest was updated, it was here that the demon Delrith was summoned and slain by a heroic adventurer.

Its position near one of Varrock's main southern roads has made it notorious amongst low levelled players. A popular luring destination, many weaker players are tricked by higher levelled players to enter the circle, where they are attacked by the dark wizards and often killed. Others use the circle as a training area.

The druids of Taverley are attempting to reclaim the stone circle. They assign the adventurer to get them some meat, and then dip it in the Cauldron of Thunder. This was the quest to start Herblore.

In RuneScape Classic, it was located significantly further to the south-east. Since Runecrafting wasn't released until RuneScape 2, this was a popular place to collect chaos runes to sell or train magic.

Quests[edit | edit source]

Many quests can be started in or around Varrock. These quests are listed below.

Free-to-play quests[edit | edit source]

  • Shield of Arrav may be started by speaking to Reldo in the palace library or Charlie the Tramp south of the Sword Shop, West of Blue Moon Inn.
  • Demon Slayer used to be started by speaking to Aris, in her tent at Varrock's central square, but is now started by talking to Grüfeld Bach in the Saradominist church north of the Varrock Museum.
  • Romeo & Juliet used to be started by talking to Romeo, who wandered around the central fountain, but the quest has been removed and replaced by Gunnar's Ground, which is started in Barbarian Village
  • Dragon Slayer may be started by speaking to the Guildmaster of the Champions' Guild to the south of Varrock.
  • A Soul's Bane may be started by speaking to Launa at the "Rift" entrance, north-west of the Dig Site.
  • Gertrude's Cat is started by speaking to Gertrude who resides in her house along the path that leads to Gunnarsgrunn.
  • Priest in Peril is started by speaking to King Roald in the palace.

Members-only quests[edit | edit source]

Varrock Achievements[edit | edit source]

Main article: Varrock Achievements

There is also a list of achievements for Varrock, which give increasing tiers Varrock armour as rewards.

Miniquests[edit | edit source]

Monsters[edit | edit source]

Many more monsters can be found wandering outside the city, and in the city's expansive underground network of pipes and sewers.

NPCs[edit | edit source]

Miscellaneous[edit | edit source]

Anvils[edit | edit source]

An outside view of the building that houses Varrock's western anvils.
An outside view of the shop that houses Varrock's eastern anvil.

Anvils are necessary during the smithing process. Varrock, a city that relies heavily on metalworking, contains a number of workshops and houses where anvils can be found.

There are three notable areas with anvils in Varrock. The first and most important can be found south of the city's west bank. Here, three anvils can be found, all very close to the bank. Because of this, it is often crowded with smiths. Another can be found north-west of the east bank, in Horvik's Armoury. A third, seldom used anvil can be found south of the east bank (behind the crossbow store) in a small house.

Ranges[edit | edit source]

Ranges are located in houses, bars, and kitchens all over Varrock, totalling out to over ten. The best one for cooking (nearest to a bank) is the one to the south-west of the east bank.

Several ranges can also be found in the Cooking Guild. If the hard Varrock achievements have been completed, players can use the range found within the guild's bank. This is the closest range to a bank in Gielinor. Some players prefer using the Lumbridge range, as it has the lowest chance of burning, and it is most likely the next closest location.

Water Sources[edit | edit source]

Players can obtain water from sinks, fountains, and wells all over Varrock. With seven sources throughout the city, water is never in short supply. The most convenient can be found in the Grand Exchange.

A player training on a dummy before the Evolution of Combat.

Combat Training[edit | edit source]

A few dummies are located in the house north of the east bank and in the castle. As dummies were attackable prior to the Evolution of Combat, these places were areas of interest for low level players looking to train their combat level.

Varrock Library[edit | edit source]

Varrock Library is famous for its large collection of texts. It is here that scholars from all over Gielinor gather in their pursuit of knowledge. Players may read a number of books in the library, including texts that concern Arrav, the history of the goblin race, and others. It also has info on craft making. This is located on the ground floor[UK]1st floor[US] on the north side of the Varrock Palace.

Agility Shortcut[edit | edit source]

Located at the north-west of the Grand Exchange, this exits near Edgeville.

Earth Altar[edit | edit source]

The Earth Altar can be found in the forest north-east of Varrock, near the beginning of the pathway to the Paterdomus Temple. Here players can craft earth runes.

Air Altar[edit | edit source]

The Air Altar can be found on the road from Varrock to Gunnarsgrunn, next to Gertrude's house. Here players can craft air runes.

Music[edit | edit source]

Main article: List of music

The following music can be unlocked in Varrock. This list does not include quest-specific tracks.

Events[edit | edit source]

Although most player-initiated riots and events take place in Falador, several notable events have taken place in Varrock.

Update history[edit | edit source]

The update history project is a work-in-progress – not all updates to this topic may be covered below. See here for how to help out!
  • patch 22 June 2020 (Update):
    • Fixed graphical issues with Manhole near Varrock.
  • patch 23 April 2018 (Update):
    • Some map blocking in the Varrock area has been re-added.
  • patch 16 April 2018 (Update):
    • Added some missing shadows to Varrock bridge.
  • patch 26 February 2018 (Update):.
    • The Varrock elite scan clue now mentions that it also covers the Grand Exchange, for clarity.
  • ninja 30 October 2017 (Update):
    • A tiny section of the fence east of Varrock - lone survivor of the great purge - is no more.
  • patch 30 March 2015 (Update):
    • A set of drawers in Varrock no longer changes colour when opening.
    • Players can once again obtain water from the Varrock fountain.
  • patch 8 December 2014 (Update):
    • Several Varrock emblems have been updated.
  • patch 1 December 2014 (Update):
    • Several wall-mounted swords and shields have been moved closer to the wall in Varrock castle's courtyard.
    • Players can no longer run through the pillars of the watchtower north of Varrock.
    • Several wall-mounted candles have been moved upstairs in the Varrock east bank.
  • patch 1 November 2014 (Update):
    • A house near the Varrock museum has had its window shutters repaired.
  • patch 20 October 2014 (Update):
    • Dwarven multicannons will no longer float when placed between the far eastern pillars of the Grand Exchange and Varrock Palace's wall.
  • patch 15 September 2014 (Update):
    • A missing part of a statue in Varrock centre has been replaced.
  • patch 3 March 2014 (Update):
    • Varrock's standard has been updated to match the Varrock lodestone symbol.
  • patch 7 January 2014 (Update):
    • The King of Misthalin statue in Varrock has been raised.
  • patch 2 October 2013 (Update):
    • Gold bars inside Varrock's bank vault are no longer solid yellow in colour.
  • patch 28 January 2013 (Update):
    • Some citizens of Varrock were still celebrating Christmas. This has been stopped.
  • patch 16 January 2012 (Update):
    • A section of roofing in Varrock is no longer split.
  • patch 12 October 2011 (Update):
    • A misaligned roof-piece in Varrock has been fixed.
  • patch 31 August 2011 (Update):
    • The Varrock tanner now has a right-click ‘Trade’ option.
  • patch 28 March 2011 (Update):
    • A gap in some railings near the Varrock dark wizards has been fixed.
  • patch 15 February 2011 (Update):
    • The crests attached to a guard tower have been properly aligned.
  • patch 6 October 2010 (Update):
    • Chandeliers in Varrock’s west bank no longer go through the roof.
  • patch 9 June 2010 (Update):
    • Familiars are no longer forced to disappear when walking around in Varrock.
  • patch 22 February 2010 (Update):
    • Adjusted the graphic on the leaflets around Varrock.
  • patch 8 February 2010 (Update):
    • Fixed the agility animation timing when going under the wall shortcut in Varrock.
  • patch 9 November 2009 (Update):
    • The stairs in Varrock’s west bank no longer descend into a grey/white void.
  • patch 17 September 2009 (Update):
    • Fixed a graphical issue with the Varrock west bank stairs.
  • patch 2 September 2009 (Update):
    • Fixed the roof of a building in south-west Varrock that did not always vanish correctly when you stood under it.
  • patch 8 July 2009 (Update):
    • Grannies in Varrock are less noisy!
  • patch 19 May 2009 (Update):
    • Added sound effects to scenery near Varrock church.
  • patch 12 May 2009 (Update):
    • Adjusted the code for the Varrock Palace wall shortcut near the Grand Exchange.
  • patch 6 May 2009 (Update):
    • Snoring sound effects have been added to the NPCs in the Varrock church.
  • patch 25 February 2009 (Update):
    • One of the textures on a wall near Varrock was upside down.

Trivia[edit | edit source]

  • During the Perils of Ice Mountain quest, the Oracle states that Varrock will turn into a desert unless the power machine is turned off.
  • There have been 3 different versions of the flags in Varrock; the first was the Misthalin flag, then a green and gold version, now the current gold and brown flag.
  • The banker in the west bank behind the door nearly says "Doctor Who" in response to one of the player's jokes, which is a reference to the popular British TV show "Doctor Who".

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ^ Jagex. "God Letter 14 - The Return of Saradomin, 11" (Archived from the original.) RuneScape God Letters.
  2. ^ Jagex. "God Letter 13 - Guthix Maintains, 15" (Archived from the original.) RuneScape God Letters.
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