The Original Ghost Walk of York
Discover York’s haunted secrets on an authentic, atmospheric ghost walk starting nightly from the historic King's Arms pub.
Experience the eerie charm of York on The Original Ghost Walk of York, a captivating 75-90 minute evening tour that explores the city's haunted history. Meeting nightly at the historic King's Arms pub, this authentic ghost walk blends spine-tingling tales with fascinating local lore, all delivered by engaging storytellers. No booking is required, making it a spontaneous and atmospheric way to discover York’s spooky past.
A brief summary to The Original Ghost Walk of York
- Kings Arms, Ouse Bridge, King's Staith, York, YO1 9SN, GB
- +441759373090
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.25 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early at the King's Arms pub to secure a good spot as no booking is required and groups can fill quickly.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on cobbled streets at night.
- Bring a camera for atmospheric shots, but be mindful of the dark and respect the tour’s ambiance.
- Children and teenagers enjoy the tour, but the spooky stories may not be suitable for very young children.
- Consider visiting during Halloween for special additional tours and heightened spooky atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services to York city center; from the main bus stops, the King's Arms pub is a 10-15 minute walk. Bus tickets cost approximately £2-£4 depending on the route.
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Train
York railway station is about 1.5 km from the King's Arms pub. A taxi ride takes around 5 minutes and costs about £6-£8, or you can walk in approximately 20 minutes through scenic city streets.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in York city center and from the train station. A typical fare to the King's Arms pub ranges from £6 to £10 depending on time and traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby in York city center, walking to the King's Arms pub is easy and enjoyable, taking 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, cobbled streets; suitable for most visitors.
The Original Ghost Walk of York location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Original Ghost Walk of York
A Nighttime Journey Through York's Haunted Streets
The Original Ghost Walk of York invites you to step into the shadows of one of England's most haunted cities. Starting from the atmospheric King's Arms pub on Ouse Bridge, the tour meanders through ancient streets and hidden corners where restless spirits are said to linger. This 75 to 90-minute walk is held nightly at 8 PM, offering a unique blend of history and ghostly folklore that brings York’s dark past vividly to life.Stories That Stir the Imagination
Guides on this walk are known for their captivating storytelling, weaving together chilling ghost tales with historical facts. From the eerie legends of plague survivors to haunted houses and mysterious shrines, each story is told with dramatic flair and a touch of humor. The tour’s intimate group sizes ensure you hear every whispered secret and spine-tingling account, making the experience both personal and immersive.Atmosphere and Authenticity
The setting itself enhances the experience: York’s medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and the ambient sounds of the city at night create a perfect backdrop for ghost stories. The guides often dress in period attire, adding a theatrical element that deepens the sense of stepping back in time. The smell of burning bonfires and the distant ringing of York Minster’s bells during special nights amplify the haunting ambiance.Accessibility and Practical Details
No advance booking is necessary, allowing visitors to simply turn up at the King's Arms pub. Tickets are priced reasonably, with adults paying around £10 and children or students at £6. The walk is suitable for families, teens, and anyone intrigued by the supernatural or history. Although the tour involves walking on cobbled streets at night, it is generally accessible to most visitors with moderate mobility.Legacy and Local Significance
This ghost walk is celebrated as the original and most authentic in York, with a history of passionate guides who have kept the city’s paranormal stories alive for decades. It is a cultural staple that enriches York’s tourism with its blend of entertainment, education, and eerie thrills. The walk not only entertains but also fosters a deeper appreciation for York’s rich heritage and mysterious allure.Memorable Encounters and Community Spirit
Beyond the ghosts and ghouls, the walk is a social event where visitors connect over shared chills and laughter. Guides often share personal anecdotes, creating a warm, engaging atmosphere despite the spooky subject matter. The Original Ghost Walk of York continues to thrive thanks to the loyal support of locals and tourists alike, making every night a magical experience steeped in tradition and storytelling.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ouse Bridge
0.0 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Parliament St
0.2 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
0.3 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
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.
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.
Historic England - York Office
0.3 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the stunning Skeldergate Bridge in York, where modern design meets historic charm, offering breathtaking views of the River Ouse and city skyline.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and history of York at Skeldergate Bridge, where vibrant city life meets serene river views.
Black window cat
0.4 km
Victorian architectural gem showcasing French Renaissance design and meticulous Victorian craftsmanship in historic York.
York Castle Museum
0.4 km
Explore the captivating history of York at the York Castle Museum, where the past comes alive through immersive exhibits and engaging displays.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.4 km
Explore the depths of history at DIG in York, where archaeology comes alive through interactive exhibits and hands-on adventures for all ages.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
The Norman House
0.4 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Stonebow
0.4 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Gift Center
0.0 km
Discover authentic York souvenirs and local crafts in a charming historic gift shop nestled in the heart of the city.
The Spurriergate Centre
0.1 km
A historic 12th-century church transformed into a vibrant community café and Christian centre in the heart of York.
York Beach
0.1 km
A vibrant craft beer bar in York’s historic Merchant Exchange, blending industrial charm with regional brews and lively riverside views.
The York Dungeon
0.1 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.2 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
The York Cat Trail
0.2 km
Discover York’s historic streets through a whimsical trail of cat statues blending folklore, art, and city heritage.
St Mary's Church
0.2 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.2 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
Coney St
0.2 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.2 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.2 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
City Screen Picturehouse
0.2 km
A lively independent cinema and cultural venue in York blending film, live entertainment, and a welcoming cafe-bar atmosphere.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.2 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
York Army Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
Essential places to dine
Corner Grill House
0.1 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
The Whippet Inn
0.2 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
Ate O'Clock
0.2 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.2 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Rustique Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Kapadokya
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Pavement Vaults
0.2 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.2 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
The Olive Tree
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
The Cut & Craft York
0.3 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.3 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
York Souvenir's
0.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Greybear
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Fenwick York
0.3 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Hidden Treasures
0.3 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Gift Gallery
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.3 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Cello by Collectables
0.3 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Take One Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.3 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Paper Doll
0.3 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.0 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Tank & Paddle York
0.1 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.1 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Plonkers
0.1 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
Jalou York
0.1 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
The Three Tuns
0.2 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.2 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Revolution York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.2 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
0.3 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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.
Victor J's
0.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Blue Bell
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
0.2 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
0.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.3 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.3 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.2 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.8 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.4 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
34.7 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
34.7 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
34.8 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
34.9 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Night Tour
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly