Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Dare you take a trip into the past and uncover some of York’s turbulent and tragic history? A past that manifests itself in the unexplained sightings of shadows haunting our streets and buildings.
Let us take you on a journey through the streets and snickleways and tell you about the shadows of York.
Note: The tour is rated PG and not recommended for under 8's.
The stories change from time to time. But they do contain in depth historic details, some of which can be dark, sad or gory.
These may include executions, plague, suicide or any other grim facts.
Some young children may find it disturbing.
The shadows are waiting for you...
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for children under 8 or of a nervous disposition.
No drunk or disorderly behaviour is acceptable. Anyone misbehaving will be turned away without refund. Private bookings available for large groups or hen parties. (subject to availability)
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
York Minster
We will walk outside around part if the Minster.
Shambles
Shambles is a 15th century street, originally built as a meat market but mow jome to many Harry Potter shops.
Entertainment
WiFi on board
No wheelchairs provided
1,393 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Donna T,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
Josh did apologise at the beginning of the tour saying that he has painful wisdom teeth and it may be harder to understand him. I felt maybe due to factors such as above, cold and wet weather, the tour felt on auto-pilot. Kind of forced performance. Guide was friendly. I just felt that the stories lacked enthusiasm and passion. It was hard to understand what was being said at times. Some of the stories were interesting, just the way it was told lacked finer details and energy. I wouldn’t go again or recommend. It was something to do. I’d say the last few tours I have done, the guides have just been very passionate and the energy infectious. So hence, why the low score for me. Didn’t quite land.
Climber17637641453,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
A brilliant tour, really informative and the lady told the story in a way to keep us all captivated. Kids loved it. Did have a gentleman who was in training who wasn’t as engaging - he just needed to relax more . Apart from all that excellent tour - thank you
John B,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
Josh was fantastic. We very much enjoyed his storytelling, and could tell that he genuinely loves the topics. The tour itself is great. It takes you to a few corners of York that you may not see otherwise. It is well-paced, and a decent length of time. Not too intensive at all. Definitely recommend this tour to anyone spending time in York. Thank you again!!!
N4740IUpaulh,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We both really enjoyed our experience on this tour. We were met with a warm friendly welcome from our tour guide Josh. Josh was very knowledgeable and made it interesting for all. We were taken down streets in York we’ve never been down before and the dark evening really added to the experience when told the creepy stories and horror history York holds. Do wrap up warm as it gets really cold just standing around if you do go in January but brilliant; fully recommend it.
Simon W,,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
So we had Dan (I think) who was fantastic. His voice carried he include a little humour and was very affable. He wasn’t put off by the locals who made ghost noises. We learned a little on a very cold evening and my only gripe I guess was that for a place that’s the most haunted city in Europe - why did we only get 5 stories?
Dean W,,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
Dan was our guide and he was phenomenal. Absolute best story teller I’ve encountered. He was also able to suggest some great places to eat after the tour completed. Highly recommend.
Linda H,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Knowledgeable guide. Saw parts of York I had not experience. Stories were interesting. If you want a fun evening book it.
P3376GUcarolineb,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mckenzie was our guide and was brilliant, funny, witty and really knowledgeable about York as well. Would definitely recommend but wrap up cause it was absolutely freezing.
alexandrol675,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
it was a great way to see York and learn about it's ghostly history. It was easy to find, group size was just right, pace and stories were very clear and Dan + Charlie were fenomenal, atmosphere was very relaxed and enjoyable
Kelly H,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
McKenzie was excellent. So good at her job! We felt safe, included, spooked and learnt so much about York

Operated by Shadows of York