About this tour
Explore York's reputation as England's most haunted city on this self-guided audio walk through medieval streets and historic public houses. Over 45 minutes to just over an hour, you'll navigate from Bootham Bar through atmospheric pubs like the Hole in the Wall and Guy Fawkes Inn, each layered with centuries of folklore—from imprisoned drinkers and phantom soldiers to spectral guests. The tour runs offline on your phone, letting you wander at your own pace through tales of tragedy, intrigue, and unexplained presences that locals swear still linger.
Highlights
- Bootham Bar: ancient city gateway marks the starting point
- Hole in the Wall's cellar harbours a Roman soldier apparition
- Guy Fawkes Inn: named after Britain's most infamous conspirator
- The Mad Maid still haunts Dean Court Hotel corridors
- Heartbroken bride appears only to those in emotional pain
- Medieval street layout unchanged since medieval times
- Prison hatch where drinks once passed to inmates
What to expect
You'll move at your own speed through York's tightly wound medieval quarters, following GPS directions via the app on your phone. Each stop unpacks the dark history behind a particular pub or building—some tied to real historical events like the Gunpowder Plot, others rooted in local legend. Expect atmospheric descriptions and backstories rather than theatrical performance. The walk covers perhaps 1–2 kilometres of ground, ideal for a leisurely afternoon or evening. Audio guides play when you reach each location, allowing you to linger as long as you wish.
Good to know
Download the app and audio content beforehand for offline use. Bring headphones and a charged phone. Admission fees to enter pubs or attractions aren't covered and vary. The route is accessible to most fitness levels, with no strenuous climbing required. Evening visits suit the haunted atmosphere, though the tour works any time of day.
Frequently asked
- How long does York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour take?
- York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour runs for approximately 45 min – 1h 15m.
- How much does York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour cost?
- Prices start from GBP $8 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour run?
- This tour operates around United Kingdom. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. New Forest National Park earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original New Forest National Park summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.