Bootham Bar

Why follow the crowds? At Yorktour we believe a great tour should also be a fun conversation, which is why we guarantee there will be no more than eight participants so everyone can ask questions and no-one needs to worry about being left at the back! This family-friendly walking tour includes all the key sights - including the exterior of the Minster and the celebrated Shambles - though we will also lead you deep into the medieval maze of ‘Snickelways’ to follow in the footsteps of the Romans and Vikings who created York. Hidden behind the starting point of the central library we enter the tranquil, green oasis of the Museum Gardens - a Victorian botanic landscape which contains the remains of the Roman fortress, a Saxon-era tower and the spectacular ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. From here it is a short walk to the Minster - the largest medieval gothic cathedral in the country - which has dominated the city’s skyline for over 900 years (please note admission to the Minster isn't included, but we'll give you all the details from the outside). The Minster lies at the heart of a warren of ancient streets whose layout is Viking in origin. You’ll hear tales of Nordic invasion while delving deep into the maze of secret passages known as ‘Snickelways’; passing an unhappy mermaid and a little red devil as well as catching a glimpse of a 15th Century banqueting hall. Finally you’ll emerge into the Shambles, York’s best-known cobbled street - once a row of butchers, now instantly recognisable to Harry Potter fans as the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Want to see the best of York? You are in for a cultural (and tasty) treat! Join your eccentric character guide and get an up-close walking tour experience of the city and its delightful hidden gems. York is a marvellously mysterious place, and you are going to experience it at its best. So, get ready; culture, history, heritage, and best kept secrets await on this character led walking tour. You will pass by famous landmarks and have some of their surprising secrets revealed; Bettys, Bootham Bar and York Minster to name but three. You’ll learn the unknown truths of York’s most infamous characters Guy Fawkes and Dick Turpin. And York’s’ hidden gems? Well, you are in for many a surprise! Your savvy guide will point out treasures hidden in plain sight that even locals don’t know about; concealed courtyards, unusual statues, secluded snickelways, and curious artefacts that are so often simply passed by. Every gate (that’s a street!) has its own unique story to tell, and you’ll hear the scintillating stories of each as you amble along with your trusted guide. Oh, and chocolate! Very important here in York! Included on this charming tour is a delicious taster from York’s Chocolate Story. A handmade chocolatey delight made on-site right here in York. This local treat hand-picked by our partners adds a satisfying savouring in a city steeped in chocolate history. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, our Historical Gems Walking Tour will allow you to get to know this beautiful city through a different perspective, discovering exclusive insights that few people get the chance to experience. Not only is the tour packed with hidden history and fascinating facts, but our character guide brings an energy to the tour that is uplifting and entertaining, making it an unforgettable experience for all. Our sharp, witty sleuth cannot wait to share their vast knowledge with you! *Do please dress for the weather chums! The tour runs in rain or shine (sometimes even snow!).

Dive into the dark and eerie side of York on this captivating walking tour, designed for thrill-seekers and history lovers alike. Starting at the iconic Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate by St Crux church, this 1.75-mile tour takes you through York’s atmospheric snickelways, historic streets, and haunted landmarks. Over the course of the tour, you’ll hear spine-tingling tales of tragedy, mystery, and ghostly encounters that have lingered in York for centuries. Visit the infamous Treasurer’s House, where Roman soldiers are said to march through the basement. Wander the shadowy alleys of The Shambles, home to restless spirits of the past. Walk through Mad Alice Lane and uncover the tragic story of its namesake. Your journey also includes chilling stops at Clifford’s Tower, where the site of a historic massacre is said to echo with the cries of the lost, and Bedern Passage, where the ghostly whispers of orphaned children have been heard. Along the way, we’ll take you through hidden corners and narrow snickelways that come alive with history and legend after dark. We’ll end the tour at The Golden Fleece, one of York’s most haunted pubs, where you’ll hear tales of its many resident spirits. With every step, you’ll uncover more of York’s ghostly secrets, all shared by an engaging guide who brings these chilling tales to life. This tour is family-friendly, but some stories may be too spooky for very young children. Perfect for a night out with friends, a unique date, or anyone curious about York’s fascinating, haunted past. Comfortable walking shoes and a sense of adventure are all you need to join us. Are you ready to step into the shadows of York and discover the stories that refuse to be forgotten? Book now to secure your spot!