The 4 Best York History Tours

1.Shadows of York: Ghost Walk and Horrible History.

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,403 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $18Our pick

Start at the Guy Fawkes Inn at 6:30 pm for a 90-minute English-language walk through York’s darker past. Guides including Dan, Josh, and Mackenzie use theatrical storytelling around the Minster and lesser-seen streets, finishing near the Shambles. Expect outdoor walking, cobbles, cold weather, and stories that can unsettle younger children.

“Wonderful ghost walk around the most spooky bits of York! Bought this for our grown up kids and they really enjoyed their evening out!”

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2.Private Historical Walking Tour of York

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,324 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.)

Walk York’s old center with a private English-speaking guide, usually starting opposite York Minster and ending at Clifford’s Tower. Hear stories tied to Romans, Vikings, kings, Henry VIII, Guy Fawkes, and local life. Guides include Alan, Karen, Chris, Sean, and David. Central hotel pickup is available.

“Alan is an exceptional guide, incredibly knowledgeable and he made my first ever visit to York most enjoyable and informative. I would highly recommend this tour.”

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3.Witches and History Old Town Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 928 reviews · 1h 15m · from $22

Follow a costumed guide such as Cornelius, Merlot, Willow, or Nutmeg through York’s old town for 75 minutes of true witch stories, murders, hauntings, and local history. The route links Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, the Shambles, York Minster, Stonegate, Barley Hall, and small lanes. Expect outdoor walking, theatrical storytelling, and cobblestones.

“The Magnificent Merlot was an amazing tour guide, very knowledgeable it amazed me how much he knew & remembered, very talented! He was very funny & entertaining. The tour itself was very interesting & factual, definitely great value for money, I recommend it to anyone interested in witches & York history.”

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4.York Witches and History Walking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 410 reviews · 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.) · from $23

Follow a guide in witch character through York’s medieval center, from Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate to the Shambles. Guides such as Nix, Merlot, Willow, and Cornelius combine York history, witch tales, jokes, and crowd interaction. The walk lasts about 70 to 75 minutes, is in English, and suits adults and children.

“My Mum and I loved the tour with Nix. Very informative and entertaining, we very much recommend it. I loved how Nix responded and reacted to other passers by and how she parted the crowds with her broom!”

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