Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History.

If you’re considering a spine-tingling stroll through York’s shadowy streets, the Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History could be just what you’re after. This tour promises a mix of ghost stories, dark history, and theatrical storytelling, all wrapped up in a manageable 90-minute walk. The reviews speak volumes — with a glowing rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 181 reviews — so it’s clearly a favorite among visitors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and theatrical flair, making each story come alive. Second, the tour offers a surprisingly good value at just over $17 per person, considering the engaging storytelling and the opportunity to see some of York’s most famous landmarks from a new perspective.

That said, a potential consideration is the tour’s physical nature — it’s a walking tour that covers uneven, historic streets, and no rest stops are available along the way. So, if you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children, you might want to think twice. Still, for those who love history with a spooky twist, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and curious travelers looking for an entertaining, atmospheric experience.

Key Points

• Highly Rated: The tour maintains an impressive 4.8/5 from numerous happy customers.
• Great Value: At around $17.50, it offers engaging storytelling and a genuine sense of the city’s darker past.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides for their knowledge and theatrical delivery.
• Dark & Entertaining: The stories fluctuate between creepy, grisly, and humorous, catering to a PG audience.
• Walking Tour: Expect a 1.5-hour walk through historic streets with uneven surfaces.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children 8 and older, with a PG rating, but not recommended for very young kids or those sensitive to dark themes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point & Meeting Instructions

The tour begins outside the Guy Fawkes Inn on High Petergate, near the Minster. Currently, due to some building work at St Michaels Le Belfrey Church, you’ll want to meet close to the Inn, being careful not to block entrances or the road. Your guide will be waiting there, ready to lead you into York’s darker corners.

What to Expect on the Tour

Once you’re gathered, the guide will lead you through the city’s streets, including some lesser-known alleyways and snickleways. You’ll visit familiar landmarks like the Minster and the Shambles but also explore quieter, shadowy spots with stories you might not find in a typical guidebook.

The tone of the tour is a good mix — you can expect moments of humor contrasted with serious, sometimes gruesome tales. The stories involve past executions, plagues, and haunted encounters, all delivered with theatrical flair that keeps the atmosphere lively but spooky.

Many reviews emphasize how the guides excel at storytelling: “Dan was very knowledgeable. He delivered the tour in a very theatrical and interesting manner,” one reviewer noted. Others appreciated how guides like Josh and Luke add humor and approachable storytelling to what could otherwise be heavy topics.

What Makes the Stories Special?

You’ll hear vivid, detailed accounts of York’s grim past — from executions to plague stories, with an honest tone that respects the darker side of history. The guides often act out characters and narrate with theatrical pauses, making the stories feel more immersive.

Reviewers have noted how the stories aren’t just spooky tales but also educational. One reviewer remarked, “It was very informative in terms of the history of York,” which adds depth to the experience rather than just chills.

Landmarks & Hidden Corners

The tour covers key sites like the Minster and the Shambles, but also ventures into less obvious spots, adding an element of discovery. These hidden corners often have stories that aren’t on the usual tourist trail, giving you a chance to see York from a darker, more mysterious angle.

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Weather & Comfort

While the tour runs regardless of weather, it’s outdoors, so bring weather-appropriate clothing. No benches or rest stops are available, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to stand or walk for the duration.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight how guides manage large groups effectively, ensuring everyone can hear and participate comfortably. The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a variety of mobility needs.

At $17.51, this tour offers a lot of storytelling for a reasonable price, especially considering the expertise of the guides and the atmospheric route. Visitors consistently mention excellent value — some say it’s better than pricier alternatives, with “very good value for money” being a common sentiment.

The tour is not overly long, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a fun, spooky activity without committing to a full evening. It’s perfect as a starting point for an evening out or as a standalone experience to get a spooky taste of York.

This experience shines brightest for those interested in history, ghost stories, or theatrical storytelling. If you enjoy tales of haunting, gruesome pasts, or just want a different way to explore York, you’ll find this tour captivating. It’s especially suited for families with children over 8, as many reviews mention kids loving the stories, but it might not be ideal for very young children or visitors sensitive to dark themes.

Plus, people who appreciate guides with a flair for acting, humor, and storytelling will get the most out of this tour. The group size and pacing make it accessible, but remember that the route can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

If you’re after a lively, atmospheric walk through York’s haunted streets, Shadows of York offers a compelling mix of history, ghost tales, and theatrical storytelling. The guides clearly know their stuff and keep things engaging, which makes the experience more than just a spooky story session — it’s a fun, educational look at the city’s darker past.

The price point is very reasonable, especially for such highly praised guides and a route that covers both famous landmarks and hidden corners. It’s a perfect activity for an evening in York, whether you’re with friends, family, or traveling solo looking for a memorable story.

While it’s not the tour for those craving a tame, relaxed experience or with very young children, most visitors find it thrilling, funny, and just the right balance of creepy and charming. If you’re intrigued by ghost stories and enjoy stories told with theatrical flair, this tour will probably be a highlight for your trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s rated PG and recommended for children over 8 years old. Many reviews mention kids really enjoyed the stories, but younger children or those sensitive to dark themes might find it too intense.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity without being overly long.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the Guy Fawkes Inn on High Petergate, near the Minster. Due to some building work, you should meet close to the Inn rather than the church.

Are there any restrictions on recording?
Yes, video and audio recordings are not allowed during the tour, but photography is fine.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, accommodating different mobility needs.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, it runs regardless of weather, but be prepared for outdoor conditions and uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Bring an umbrella, camera, comfortable clothes, and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing. No rest stops are provided, so dress accordingly.

If you’re after a dark, atmospheric walk that combines history and spooky tales, Shadows of York is a fantastic choice that offers both entertainment and education, all delivered by guides who truly know their craft.

You can check availability for your dates here: