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The York Dungeon: Immersive Journey into York's Dark History

Step into York’s dark past with live actors, chilling tales, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.

4.6

The York Dungeon offers a thrilling, immersive experience that brings to life over 2000 years of York's darkest history through live actors, special effects, and interactive storytelling. Located at 12 Clifford Street, this atmospheric attraction features 10 live shows that include notorious characters like Vikings, Guy Fawkes, and local witches. Visitors can expect sensory surprises such as jump scares, loud noises, and dramatic sets, making it a unique blend of history and theatre.

A brief summary to The York Dungeon

  • 12 Clifford St, York, YO1 9RD, GB
  • +441904632599
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid queues.
  • Consider attending the adult-only Dungeon Lates on Saturdays for a scarier experience.
  • The attraction is not recommended for children under 8 due to scary content.
  • Use the accessible facilities and inform staff if you prefer not to be selected for audience participation.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the York Park & Ride bus services that run frequently from various city outskirts to the city centre; then walk approximately 10 minutes to 12 Clifford Street. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 for a day ticket, and services operate roughly every 10-15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from York railway station to The York Dungeon take about 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available at the station and throughout the city.

  • Walking

    If staying in central York, The York Dungeon is accessible via a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets from popular locations such as York Minster or the city centre, suitable for most visitors including wheelchair users.

The York Dungeon location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The York Dungeon

A Theatrical Walk Through York’s Shadowed Past

The York Dungeon is a captivating attraction that plunges visitors into the eerie and dramatic depths of York’s history. Spanning two millennia, it presents tales of Vikings, medieval tortures, infamous criminals, and dark legends through a series of theatrical shows. Visitors are led through 10 live actor-led scenes, each carefully crafted with detailed sets, special effects, and immersive storytelling that engages all the senses. The atmosphere is thick with suspense and occasionally punctuated by jump scares, loud noises, and startling visual effects.

Iconic Characters and Historical Narratives

Meet some of York’s most notorious figures such as the invading Vikings, the infamous Guy Fawkes, and the local witch Isabella Billington. Each character is brought to life by professional actors who combine historical facts with dramatic flair, making the stories both educational and entertaining. The shows explore events like the Gunpowder Plot and the grim realities of the plague and medieval justice, offering a gripping insight into the city’s darker chapters.

Immersive Sensory Experience

The York Dungeon is not just a visual spectacle but a fully sensory environment. Guests encounter pungent smells, water sprays, air blasts, and strobe lighting that heighten the thrill and realism. The attraction is designed to surprise and engage, with some visitors randomly selected to participate in the performances, adding a unique interactive element. The venue is climate controlled, ensuring comfort whether the weather outside is warm or cold.

Special Events and Accessibility

For those seeking a more intense experience, the Dungeon offers adult-only "Dungeon Lates" on Saturday evenings featuring scarier shows with mature themes and saucier humor. The attraction is family-friendly for children aged five and older, though it is not recommended for children under eight due to the scary content. Accessibility is well catered for, with wheelchair access, stairlifts, and clear signage throughout. Disabled toilets and helpful staff ensure a comfortable visit for all.

Planning Your Visit and Practical Information

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission typically around 4:00 PM, the York Dungeon requires advance booking to guarantee entry, especially during weekends and holidays. The experience lasts approximately 75 minutes. The venue is located centrally on Clifford Street, close to other York attractions, and includes amenities such as a gift shop and public toilets. It is a cashless venue that accepts contactless payments.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

The York Dungeon blends dark history with theatrical entertainment, creating an atmosphere that is both chilling and fun. The combination of storytelling, live acting, and special effects makes it a unique cultural attraction in York. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a thrill-seeker, the Dungeon offers a memorable journey into the city’s shadowy past.

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