Best Ghost Tours in York
Few cities in the UK embrace the supernatural quite like York. With over two millennia of Roman ruins, Viking invasions, medieval executions and more than a few unexplained tales, York’s eerie reputation is well-earned. And what better way to explore it than by joining one of the city’s famously atmospheric ghost tours in York?
From theatrical ghost bus rides to walking ghost tours York streets steeped in shadowy history, this guide takes you through the most popular options, what to expect, and how to choose the experience that suits you best.
Why Are Ghost Tours in York So Popular?
York’s dark and tangled history provides the perfect backdrop for ghost stories. The city’s labyrinth of cobbled alleys, timber-framed buildings and centuries-old pubs makes for a naturally spooky setting. Its legends span Roman soldiers in basement passageways to mysterious figures seen gliding through the Minster. It’s no surprise that there are now more than a dozen ghost tours in York running regularly, each offering its own twist on the tales.
Top Ghost Tours in YorkLooking for the best ghost tours in York? Here are four of the most popular:
The Original Ghost Walk of York
Often regarded as the blueprint for all others, this York ghost tour is both theatrical and informative. Starting outside the King’s Arms pub, expect costumed guides, candlelit tales and plenty of ghostly drama as you explore some of York’s oldest streets.
Departs from: Outside the King’s Arms pub
Start time: 8:00 PM nightly
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: £7 per adult
York Ghost Bus Tour
The most theatrical of all, the York Ghost Bus Tour transforms a vintage Routemaster into a rolling house of horrors. Expect live actors, spine-tingling anecdotes and plenty of laughs alongside the scares. A great choice for families and groups.
Departs from: Station Road, near York Station
Start times: Evenings (times vary seasonally)
Duration: 1 hour
Price: From £18 per adult
The Bloody Tour of York
Led by the charismatic “Mad Alice,” this tour blends ghost stories with real historical events. Expect witch trials, executions and tales of betrayal from one of the city’s best-rated guides.
Departs from: Outside St. William’s College
Start time: 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: £10 - £12 per adult
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
Prefer a quieter, more atmospheric option? Shadows of York is all about immersive storytelling. This walking ghost tour York takes you off the main tourist trail, exploring backstreets and lesser-known legends.
Departs from: Outside the Minster
Start time: Usually 8:00 PM
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: £8 per adult
Haunted Places Featured on York Ghost Tours
Every tour takes its own route, but many feature these chilling highlights:
The Shambles: A crooked medieval lane with reports of shadowy figures after dusk.
Clifford’s Tower: The site of tragic executions and siege.
York Minster: Said to be haunted by ghostly monks.
Treasurer’s House: Famous for the Roman soldier ghosts seen in the cellar.
The Golden Fleece: One of the most haunted pubs in the UK, not just York.
Each location offers its own eerie atmosphere and historic weight.
Tips for Choosing the Best Ghost Tour in York
Choosing the right tour depends on your group and your appetite for the paranormal. Most tours run rain or shine, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Tours typically last 60–90 minutes and many are outdoors, especially the walking ghost tours York is known for.
Best for families or groups
The York Ghost Bus Tour is a popular option. It’s light-hearted, indoors, and entertaining — a great choice if you want a ghostly experience without too much walking.
Best for history lovers
The Bloody Tour of York and Shadows of York blend real events with folklore and offer strong storytelling with a historical edge.
Best for short visits
The Ghost Bus Tour is ideal if you're short on time, delivering a complete and theatrical ghostly experience in just one hour.
Best for a traditional ghost walk
The Original Ghost Walk offers a classic approach with costumed guides and atmospheric storytelling through York’s historic streets.
Stay Close to the Shadows
If you're planning a spooky stay in the city, Malmaison York makes an ideal base. Located within walking distance of The Shambles and many tour departure points, the hotel blends rich heritage with contemporary design, perfect for those who like a touch of comfort with their scares.
FAQs About York Ghost Tours
Which is the best York ghost tour?
There’s no single answer. If you’re after performance and fun, the Ghost Bus is ideal. For eerie history, try The Bloody Tour or Shadows of York. The Original Ghost Walk is a great all-rounder.
Where to see ghosts in York?
The Shambles, Treasurer’s House, Clifford’s Tower and The Golden Fleece are among the most haunted locations regularly visited on York ghost tours.
Do you have to book the ghost tour York?
Some tours allow walk-ups, but the most popular options, especially during weekends or school holiday, are best booked online in advance.
What is the most haunted pub in York?
The Golden Fleece. Staff and visitors alike have reported ghost sightings for decades.
Why does York have so many ghost tours?
With its Roman foundations, medieval streets, and centuries of bloody history, York is a natural fit for ghost stories and locals have perfected the art of telling them.