Shadows of York Ghost Walk: An Immersive Journey into York’s Haunted Past
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
The Shadows of York Ghost Walk offers a captivating 1.5-hour guided tour through York’s historic streets, blending chilling ghost stories with rich historical insights. Led by charismatic guides, this family-friendly experience explores York’s dark past, including tales of hauntings, executions, and mysterious shadows lurking in the city’s alleys and landmarks. Ideal for those intrigued by history and the supernatural, the walk reveals hidden corners of York with theatrical storytelling and atmospheric settings.
A brief summary to Shadows of York Ghost Walk
- High Petergate, York, York, YO1 7EN, GB
- +447967460567
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the walk covers historic cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.
- The tour is suitable for children aged 8 and above, but some stories may be intense for sensitive youngsters.
- Evening tours provide the best atmosphere with York’s shadows and lighting enhancing the spooky experience.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the tour takes place outdoors regardless of conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s city bus services to the city center; buses run frequently from the railway station to stops near High Petergate. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around £2-£4. Note that buses may be less frequent in the evening.
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Train
York railway station is about 1.5 km from High Petergate. From the station, a 20-minute walk through flat, paved streets leads to the starting point. Taxis are available outside the station for a 5-minute ride costing approximately £6-£10.
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Taxi
Local taxi services can provide direct transport to High Petergate from anywhere in York. Typical fares from the railway station or city center range from £6 to £12, depending on time and traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby in York’s city center, walking to High Petergate is convenient and enjoyable, taking 5-15 minutes depending on your location. The route is on historic cobbled streets, which may be uneven, so wear suitable footwear.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Shadows of York Ghost Walk
Unearthing York’s Haunted History
The Shadows of York Ghost Walk delves deep into the city’s turbulent and often grim past, bringing to life centuries of stories about hauntings, executions, and eerie events. As you wander through York’s ancient streets and narrow snickleways, you encounter tales of plague victims, bricked-up monks, and restless spirits said to linger beneath the cobblestones. The tour’s narrative weaves historical facts with chilling folklore, offering a compelling glimpse into the darker side of York’s heritage.Atmospheric Exploration of York’s Iconic Sites
The walk takes you past some of York’s most atmospheric locations, including the famous Shambles and the vicinity of York Minster. These sites provide a dramatic backdrop for the stories, enhancing the spooky ambiance. The guides skillfully use the city’s architecture and shadows to create a haunting experience that feels both authentic and immersive, inviting you to look over your shoulder as footsteps echo nearby.Engaging Storytelling by Expert Guides
A highlight of the Shadows of York Ghost Walk is the engaging and knowledgeable guides who lead the tour. Their storytelling blends humor, theatrical flair, and historical detail, making the experience entertaining as well as informative. Whether it’s Dan, Josh, or another guide, their ability to captivate audiences with perfectly timed pauses and vivid descriptions elevates the tour beyond a simple walk, making it a memorable evening event.Family-Friendly Yet Spooky
Rated PG, the tour is suitable for families with children over eight, balancing spooky tales with historical education. While some stories touch on dark themes such as executions and plague, the presentation is done with care to avoid overwhelming younger participants. This makes it an excellent choice for visitors seeking a ghostly adventure that is both thrilling and appropriate for a wide audience.Community and Cultural Connection
Beyond the ghost stories, the walk offers insight into York’s cultural heritage and community history. It reveals hidden parts of the city that many visitors might miss, fostering a deeper appreciation of York’s unique character. The tour’s popularity and consistent high ratings reflect its role in connecting people to the city’s past in an engaging and accessible way.Practical Details for Visitors
The Shadows of York Ghost Walk typically lasts about 90 minutes and operates mainly in the evenings to maximize the atmospheric effect of the city’s shadows and dimly lit streets. It is wheelchair accessible and suitable for a wide range of visitors. Booking in advance is recommended, with flexible cancellation options available. The tour price is moderate, offering great value for an entertaining and educational experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Norman House
0.0 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.1 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
0.1 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.1 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Bootham Bar
0.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Sundial Column
0.2 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Anglian Tower
0.2 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.3 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Medieval Walls
0.3 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Monk Bar
0.3 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
The York Cat Trail
0.3 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
11 Shambles
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.0 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.0 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Mountain Goat Tours - York
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.1 km
Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
The Antiques Centre York
0.1 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
Constantine the Great
0.1 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
York Minster
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
York Armoury
0.1 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
York Oratory
0.1 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of York’s Catholic community, rich in history, art, and enduring faith.
Hole In The Wall
0.1 km
Experience the charm of Hole In The Wall in York, a historic pub offering local ales, traditional British dishes, and a warm atmosphere.
Petergate House
0.1 km
Explore Petergate House, a stunning historical landmark in York, where rich heritage meets architectural beauty, perfect for every tourist's journey.
Coffee yard
0.1 km
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Stonegate
0.1 km
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Barley Hall
0.1 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.1 km
Discover York’s haunted streets with a perfect mix of spooky tales and dark humor on The Deathly Dark Tours ghost walk.
Essential places to dine
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.0 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.1 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Fat Hippo York
0.1 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
The Botanist York
0.1 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Los Moros
0.1 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Lucia Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Turtle Bay York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Brew & Brownie
0.2 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Wildwood
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Minster Shop
0.0 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Rookscroft
0.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
0.1 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
0.1 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.1 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
The Imaginarium
0.2 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.2 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
Paper Doll
0.2 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Pandora
0.2 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.2 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Snowhome
0.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
0.1 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Eagle & Child
0.1 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
The Punch Bowl
0.1 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.2 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.2 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.2 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.2 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Royal Oak
0.3 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Pivní York
0.3 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Revolution York
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.3 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Kuda
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.7 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.9 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.9 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.1 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
