York: Bloody Walking Tour with Mad Alice & Medieval Streets

Summary

Walk York’s haunted streets with stories of blood, royalty & secrets

You’ll follow Mad Alice through York’s medieval streets, hear gruesome tales beneath Gothic arches and crooked timbered houses, see Clifford’s Tower at dusk, and wander the Shambles where history lingers in every shadow. Expect laughter mixed with chills — and stories you’ll keep thinking about long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You look like trouble,” Mad Alice grinned at me as I fumbled with my scarf near York Minster. I’d barely joined the group when she launched into a story about a bishop who lost his head (literally) right where we stood. Her voice echoed off the stone, and for a second I swear I felt a chill — maybe it was just the wind, or maybe not. The city felt different at dusk, like it was holding its breath.

We trailed behind Alice down the Shambles — that street is so narrow you could almost touch both sides if you tried (I did, but no luck). She pointed out butcher hooks still hanging above old doorways and told us about Margaret Clitherow hiding priests in her house. There was this odd smell of old wood and something sweet from a nearby bakery. A kid in our group asked if ghosts really walk here; Alice winked and said they do if you listen hard enough. I kept glancing over my shoulder after that.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a “bloody” tour, but Alice had this way of making even gruesome stories feel like local gossip. At Clifford’s Tower she described the tragedy there — her voice dropped low and everyone went quiet for a moment. The stones looked almost pink in the evening light. We passed Jorvik Viking Centre too; she joked about Vikings being terrible neighbors (noisy parties apparently). By then my feet hurt but I honestly didn’t want it to end yet.

Afterwards, walking back past the Minster, I kept thinking about all those layers under the city — Romans, Vikings, saints, murderers. It’s strange how much history can fit into one night’s walk. Still gives me goosebumps sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore York's medieval and Viking history

• See York Minster Cathedral
• Walk through Snickleways street
• Learn about Roman origins
• Stroll down The Shambles street
• Visit Jorvik Viking Centre
• View Clifford's Tower remains

Top questions

Is the Bloody Tour of York suitable for children?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages and families are welcome.

Does the tour include entry to attractions like York Minster?

No entry is included; you’ll see these landmarks from outside during the walking tour.

How long does the Bloody Tour of York last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect an evening walking tour covering several key sites.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Are strollers or prams allowed on the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the walk.

Will we visit Clifford’s Tower on this tour?

You’ll stop at Clifford’s Tower for stories but won’t go inside as part of this guided walk.

What are some highlights of this walking tour?

You’ll see York Minster, The Shambles, Jorvik Viking Centre (outside), and Clifford’s Tower.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

The reference doesn’t specify but advance booking is recommended for popular tours like this one.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided walking tour led by Mad Alice or Lady Peckett through York’s famous sites such as Clifford’s Tower and The Shambles; all routes are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly so everyone can join easily from central meeting points nearby public transport.