York Dungeon Tickets: Live Shows, Ride & History Entry

Summary

York Dungeon chills with live actors, rides and dark tales

You’ll step straight into Yorkshire’s shadowy past with your York Dungeon entry ticket—live actors pull you right into tales of Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes (with plenty of laughs). Expect sudden scares, clever special effects, and a surprise ride that’ll have your heart thumping. You’ll leave wondering what was real—and maybe glancing over your shoulder once or twice.

What’s the experience like?

You know that weird mix of excitement and nerves you get right before something silly and scary? That’s exactly how I felt standing outside York Dungeon, ticket in hand. The old stone walls looked even gloomier up close — someone behind us joked about turning back, but the queue was full of families and teenagers all buzzing. Inside, it smelled like damp stone and something sweet from the snack stand (toffee? I never found out). Our guide — I think her name was Molly — had this way of grinning at you that made you wonder if she was about to prank you or just tell another gruesome story.

The first show started fast. Suddenly we were in pitch dark, listening to shouts echoing off the walls. There was this bit about Dick Turpin — honestly, I only half-remembered who he was before coming here — but the actor playing him made everyone laugh and squirm at the same time. At one point, a fake rat brushed my ankle (I hope it was fake), and Li jumped so hard she almost knocked over a prop barrel. The main keyword here is “spooky”, but it’s also weirdly funny. York Dungeon really leans into those old Yorkshire legends; Guy Fawkes got his own room, too, with smoky lights and a voice booming overhead.

I didn’t expect the ride at all — nobody warned me! It’s not huge or anything, but after all those stories about torture and betrayal, suddenly being jolted around in the dark made my heart race more than I’d admit out loud. Kids screamed (some adults too), then everyone laughed when we spilled out into daylight again. The whole thing took maybe 75 minutes? Time felt strange inside; we kept glancing at each other like “did that just happen?”

Walking back along the Shambles afterwards, I could still hear bits of those creepy voices in my head. It’s not just for kids — there’s enough dry British humor and local history to keep anyone guessing what’s real or just theatre. Honestly, I still think about that moment when Molly winked at us before slamming a dungeon door shut behind our group…

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit York Dungeon attraction

• Enter York Dungeon
• Explore spooky walk-around attraction
• Watch live shows
• Enjoy gripping rides
• Experience special effects and staging
• Learn about Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes
• Have fun with family visit

Top questions

Is York Dungeon suitable for children?

Yes, families visit often but some scenes may be scary for young kids.

How long does a visit to York Dungeon take?

The experience usually lasts around 75 minutes.

Are there live shows inside York Dungeon?

Yes, entry includes access to several live shows performed by actors.

Is there a ride included with York Dungeon tickets?

Yes, your entry ticket includes a themed ride as part of the attraction.

Is York Dungeon wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the attraction is wheelchair accessible throughout.

Does my ticket include a guide?

No separate guide needed—actors lead you through each section.

Can I reach York Dungeon by public transport?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes an entrance ticket to York Dungeon—once inside you get access to all live shows featuring local actors, special effects throughout each room, and even a themed ride before stepping back outside into daylight again.