Few cities in England can match the charm and character of York. With its medieval walls, cobbled streets, and legendary history, it’s a place that invites exploration. What really sets York apart are the diverse ways you can experience it—whether you want a family-friendly wizard walk, an intimate historical tour, or a full-day trip to Whitby and the Moors. We love the Wizard Walk of York because it’s a magical twist perfect for kids, and the small-group city tours offer a personal touch that makes history come alive. For fans of movie magic, the Harry Potter locations tour transports you to Hogsmeade in the heart of York, blending fantasy with history seamlessly. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or a small group, York’s tours promise engaging stories and memorable experiences.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the 15 best tours in York—from walking adventures to full-day excursions—serving all interests and budgets. Dive into the list below and find your perfect way to see this historic city.
1. Wizard Walk of York – WINNER Best Tour & Best of York Award
At number 1 on our list, the Wizard Walk of York stands out for its unique appeal to families and wizard fans. As York’s only tour created specifically for children, it combines magic, comedy, and history in an engaging 1-hour 15-minute walk. Led by a guide dressed as a wizard, kids from ages 5 to 10 will love searching for mythical creatures, watching close-up magic, and hearing jokes.
The route covers top sights like York Minster and the Shambles, but with a twist—magic tricks and playful storytelling make history fun. Reviewers praise the tour for its humor and kid-friendly approach, with one calling it “absolutely perfect for a walking tour with kids.” It’s an affordable option at just $16.47 per person, making it a must-do for families wanting a memorable, interactive experience. Bottom line: a fun, magical way to introduce your children to York’s stories.
2. The Best of York on Foot in a Small Group
Next, the Best of York on Foot offers a 1.5-hour small-group tour, capped at just eight travelers. For around $27.45, you’ll visit St Mary’s Abbey, York Minster, The Shambles, and other highlights while benefiting from your guide’s insights.
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction without the stress of navigating the winding streets alone. Tour guide Alfred receives rave reviews, with visitors praising his enthusiasm and storytelling skills. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the itinerary packs in both history and local lore. It’s an excellent value for those wanting a timed, detailed overview of the city. Bottom line: ideal for those who want a relaxed, informative walk with a friendly guide.
3. North York Moors and Whitby Day Tour from York
For a full-day escape, the North York Moors and Whitby tour is a fantastic choice. Starting in Pickering, you’ll explore Hogsmeade-like villages, the Moors National Park, and the seaside town of Whitby, famous for its Abbey and Captain Cook connections.
The tour includes stops at Byland Abbey, Goathland Station (the Harry Potter Hogsmeade station), and Wensleydale Creamery. Guests love the variety—it’s a blend of history, scenery, and pop culture. The highlight is the steam railway ride from Goathland back to York, which is a real treat. Reviewers mention John as a “fabulous guide,” and the day is praised for its scenic stops and engaging commentary. It’s best suited for those interested in seeing the countryside, charming villages, and coastal views. Bottom line: a well-rounded trip for first-timers wanting a taste of Yorkshire’s coast and countryside.
4. Shared Walking Tour in York
If you prefer an interactive, in-depth exploration, the Shared Walking Tour offers a 1-hour to 3-hour journey through the city’s most iconic sights. Starting at The Guy Fawkes Inn, you’ll walk past York Minster, The Shambles, and Museum Gardens, while your guide shares stories of Guy Fawkes and York’s medieval past.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the balance of walking, explanation, and storytelling. The tour is flexible, allowing you to customize the experience, which is great if you want to focus on certain landmarks. For just over $20, it offers a rich, personal insight into York’s history. Bottom line: a great choice for history enthusiasts and those who want a guided but relaxed overview.
5. Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York
For something truly memorable, the Steam Trains, Whitby, and the Moors offers an 8-hour adventure. It includes a scenic drive, visits to Hutton le Hole, Whitby, and the Hogsmeade station, plus a historic steam railway ride.
This tour is packed with film locations, castle ruins, and sparkling waterfalls. Guests love the personalized small group and the opportunity to see the famous Whitby Abbey. With prices around $135, it’s a longer, more immersive experience suited for those eager to combine nature, history, and coastal charm. The guide’s knowledge and the steam railway are consistently praised. Bottom line: perfect for travelers wanting a full-day, diverse exploration with a nostalgic train ride.
6. York Witches and History Walking Tour
For a spooky twist, the York Witches and History Walking Tour blends medieval architecture with tales of witchcraft and the strange. Lasting about 1 hour 15 minutes, it’s led by a guide in character as a witch, adding entertainment and authenticity.
Visit historic sites like York Minster, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, and St. Crux Parish Hall while uncovering stories of witch hunts and medieval superstition. Reviewers highlight the guide’s humor and the engaging storytelling. It’s ideal for adults and children alike who enjoy tales of the mysterious. The tour’s fun and educational approach offers a different perspective on York’s past. Bottom line: a lively, fun way to explore the dark side of history.
7. Yorkshire Dales Tour from York
For nature lovers, the Yorkshire Dales tour offers an 8-hour exploration of rolling hills, stone castles, and waterfalls. Traveling in a small group, you’ll visit Bolton Castle, Aysgarth Waterfalls, and the Wensleydale Creamery. The highlight is the chance to see Wensleydale cheese being made.
Guests praise guide Hilton for his knowledge and storytelling, and the scenic drives through the Dales are a highlight. The tour is suitable for those with a taste for outdoor scenery and rural charm, with good value at about $120. It’s a longer, leisurely day that provides a refreshing break from city streets. Bottom line: perfect for travelers looking for a scenic, relaxed day in nature.
8. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around York with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
If you want an active, interactive experience, the Treasure Hunt is a self-guided adventure. Using your smartphone, you’ll solve clues and discover hidden sights at your own pace. It’s a great way to explore lesser-known streets and attracts with a sense of discovery.
Rated highly for its fun clues and engaging puzzles, it suits families or groups who enjoy a challenge. One reviewer said, “The clues were quite tricky but made it enjoyable!” Costing around $33 for a group of six, it’s a budget-friendly, active alternative to traditional tours. Bottom line: ideal for explorers who prefer to carve their own path.
9. York Dungeon Entry Ticket
For an adrenaline rush, the York Dungeon offers a dark, theatrical experience of York’s grim past. With prebooked tickets, you skip lines and dive into live shows, rides, and interactive exhibits that portray notorious figures like Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes.
Guests rave about its spooky, fun atmosphere, making it a favorite for families and thrill-seekers. The ticket, priced at $27.48, includes all the shows and rides, creating a full morning or afternoon of entertainment. It’s suitable for those wanting a high-energy, immersive experience of York’s darker side. Bottom line: a thrilling way to learn history with plenty of scares and laughs.
10. Time Traveller’s Walking Tour of York – Morning Tour
The Time Traveller’s Walking Tour covers over 2,000 years of history in just 75 minutes. Starting at the Castle Museum, you’ll hear stories of Roman York, Vikings, and the Black Death.
Guests love the interactive storytelling and the chance to earn a souvenir at the end. The small-group style ensures personalized attention, and reviewers mention the guide’s engaging storytelling skills. It’s a perfect tour for those short on time but eager to connect with York’s past stories. For about $22, it packs a lot of history into a lively walk. Bottom line: great for history buffs and curious travelers.
11. York Walls Private Walking Tour
If you’re looking for a bespoke experience, the York Walls Private Walking Tour offers a customized journey around York’s famous medieval walls. For around $89 per person, you can tailor your itinerary to include York Castle, The Shambles, or York Minster.
Guests rave about the personalized attention and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of the city. The tour can last from 1.5 to 3 hours, perfect for those who want a relaxed, in-depth exploration. The private setting also makes it ideal for special occasions or intimate groups. Bottom line: best suited for travelers who want a flexible, private adventure.
12. City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For ultimate flexibility, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus provides a 24-hour ticket to explore York at your own pace. With 20 stops including Clifford’s Tower and The Museum Gardens, you can hop on and off as often as you like.
Guests appreciate the easy-to-understand maps and the helpful staff. The open-top bus comes with audio commentary, and reviews praise it as a great way to get an overview without tiring out. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, low-effort way to see the main sights. The cost is about $23 per person, making it good value for a full day. Bottom line: ideal for those with limited time or mobility issues.
13. Histories Forbidden Chronicles Early Evening Tour
For something a little darker, the Histories Forbidden Chronicles takes you on a 1.5-hour journey through York’s macabre tales and secret stories. Led by a lively guide, you’ll explore Castles, Tower, and hidden alleys, uncovering pestilence, executions, and pagan legends.
Reviewers enjoy the entertaining narration and the atmosphere created by the guide’s engaging storytelling. It’s suited for adults and older children who like spooky stories and unusual history. Tickets cost about $17, making it an affordable option for a different perspective on York’s past. Bottom line: perfect for history lovers craving dark tales.
14. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour: Guided Tour of York
Movie fans shouldn’t miss the Harry Potter Locations Tour, which takes you through the city’s film-inspired spots. Lasting around 2 hours, this interactive walk includes movie trivia, costume displays, and reenactments.
While York itself doesn’t have filming sites from the Harry Potter series, the guide cleverly highlights locations that resemble or inspired parts of the wizarding world. Guests enjoy the fun group challenges and the insider tips for Harry Potter fans. For $19.22, it offers a lively, engaging experience especially suited for families and fans. Bottom line: a memorable way to connect York’s streets with your favorite movies.
15. J & M York City Walking Tours
Rounding out our list, the J & M York City Walking Tours is an accessible 2-hour tour that explores Roman ruins, medieval streets, and notorious figures like Dick Turpin and Oliver Cromwell. Led by passionate guides, this tour dives into York’s layered past and hidden stories.
Reviewed as “very informative and fun,” the tour is suitable for all ages who want to see the city’s major landmarks while hearing the stories behind them. At just $16.47, it offers excellent value for a rundown. Bottom line: a solid choice for history buffs eager for a lively walk.
How to Choose the Right Tour in York
When selecting your perfect York tour, consider your interest level, group size, and time available. Families with kids should prioritize the Wizard Walk of York, while history enthusiasts might prefer a small-group walking tour. For those wanting a full-day experience, the Whitby and Moors trip offers great scenery and culture.
Budget-conscious travelers will find the self-guided treasure hunt and J & M walking tour appealing, while fans of themed experiences should look at the Witches and History Tour or Harry Potter tour.
Booking early is advisable for popular options like the York Dungeon or Full-Day Whitby & Moors. Think about your pace, interests, and whether you prefer a private, small group, or self-guided experience.
Final Thoughts
York offers a surprisingly wide array of tours that cater to history lovers, families, film buffs, and adventure seekers alike. From interactive magic to scenic day trips, there’s something for all. Two standout options are the Wizard Walk for families wanting a fun, magical introduction, and the York Walls Private Tour for those craving a personalized, flexible experience.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing the right tour based on your interests will ensure a rewarding visit. York’s stories, scenery, and surprises await—so lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore!
