York: Ghost Walk & Horrible History Night Tour

Summary

Haunted York ghost walk with stories of tragedy and laughter

You’ll walk York’s twisting streets after dark with a local guide who mixes eerie history with humor. Expect tales of ghosts and tragedy near York Minster and The Shambles. You’ll share laughs (and maybe goosebumps) as you explore hidden corners most visitors miss — just keep an eye out for shadows following behind.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous just standing outside York Minster at dusk, but there was something about the way our guide grinned — like he knew secrets we didn’t. The city felt different at night, quieter, even though you could still hear distant chatter from the pubs. Our group huddled together as he started with a story about shadows that supposedly linger near the old stone walls. I caught a whiff of rain on the air (classic Yorkshire), and someone behind me actually shivered, though maybe it was just cold.

We wandered through narrow lanes — snickleways, they call them here — where the stones are uneven underfoot and you can smell damp brick and something sweet from a bakery closing up for the night. The Shambles was next, all crooked beams and hanging signs, and it’s funny how in daylight it’s full of Harry Potter fans but at night you notice how tight the street feels. Our guide paused by a doorway to talk about plague victims who once lived above butcher shops; I glanced up and thought about all those lives stacked on top of each other. He made us laugh too, especially when he tried to pronounce some old Norse word (he gave up halfway through).

Some stories were honestly grim — executions, hauntings, things I won’t forget soon. There was one moment where everything went quiet except for our footsteps on wet cobblestones, and I found myself looking over my shoulder even though I knew better. The tour is rated PG but yeah, some bits stuck with me longer than I expected. Still, there was this weird comfort in hearing it all together, strangers sharing goosebumps under yellow streetlights.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — York ghost walk and historic sites

• Walk outside around York Minster
• Explore 15th century Shambles street

Top questions

Is the York ghost walk suitable for children?

The tour is rated PG and not recommended for children under 8 or those who are easily frightened.

Does the tour include The Shambles and York Minster?

Yes, you’ll visit both The Shambles and walk around part of York Minster during the tour.

How long does the ghost walk in York last?

The exact duration isn’t specified, but expect an evening stroll covering key historic areas.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the ghost walk.

Are private bookings available for groups?

Private bookings can be arranged for large groups or hen parties, subject to availability.

What kind of stories are told on this tour?

The stories cover York’s dark history including executions, plague events, suicides, and other grim facts.

Are service animals allowed on this York ghost tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed to join the tour.

Can infants join in prams or strollers?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the walk.

What’s included

Your evening includes entertainment from a local guide as you explore haunted streets around York Minster and The Shambles; public transport options nearby make arrival easy; wheelchair users are welcome throughout; private bookings possible if you’re coming with a big group or celebrating something special.