Viator Rating : 5 (3566 reviews)
York
York's Dark History: The Deathly Dark Walking Tour
90
Overview
The Deathly Dark Tour of York is a fun walking tour through the spooky side of the city. It's like a play mixed with a history lesson, perfect for people who like a bit of dark humor and want to see York's creepy past.
Imagine walking down the Snickleways of York and Stonegate, where the shadows seem to whisper old stories. The tour takes you past famous spots like York Minster, Bedern, Coppergate, The Shambles, and even Clifford's Tower. A guide will lead the way, telling tales that might make the hair on the back of the neck stand up.
This tour includes a guide to lead the way. There are no bathroom breaks planned, so plan accordingly before the tour. It’s good to know that the tour is made for groups of 20-50 people, but that can change depending on the time of year. If you want something smaller, they can do private tours. 
Highlights
Spooky Fun: Explore York's dark side with a funny, scary walking tour.
Famous Spots: See York Minster and The Shambles and more with your guide.
Expert Storytellers: Hear creepy stories from a funny and engaging guide.
Perfect for Families: Bring the family along for a fun and spooky adventure (kids must stay with adults).
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the funny and interesting stories.
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Many felt the tour guides were excellent and made the experience enjoyable.
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Some mentioned the tour was a great way to see York's historical spots.
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A few people said it was fun for both adults and older kids.
A few customers found the tour a bit too long.
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Some people thought parts of the tour were hard to hear.
The Journey
Snickleways of York
Venture into the labyrinthine Snickleways of York, a network of narrow, winding alleyways steeped in history and mystery. These ancient passages, some dating back to the medieval era, whisper tales of bygone eras and unsettling events. Explore the city's hidden corners, where every turn reveals a new ghost story and a glimpse into York's captivating past. Discover why these secret pathways are considered some of the most haunted locations in the city.
Stonegate
Step onto Stonegate, a historical street lined with buildings brimming with ghostly stories and hidden secrets. Once a Roman road, Stonegate's architecture and atmosphere carry centuries of tales. Visit its quaint shops and ancient pubs, each with its own unique history and haunted reputation. Explore the layers of time embedded in Stonegate, where every stone has a story to tell, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike.
York Minster
Marvel at the York Minster, one of the largest and most magnificent cathedrals in Northern Europe. While officially ghost-free, local legends hint at spectral presences within its towering walls. Admire the stunning stained glass, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking Gothic architecture. Discover the Minster's rich history, from its Roman origins to its role in pivotal historical events. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the York Minster's awe-inspiring presence and historical significance make it an unmissable landmark.
Bedern
Delve into the dark, back streets of Bedern, a district steeped in medieval history and eerie tales. Once home to a college of vicars choral, Bedern's narrow lanes and historic buildings harbor stories of scandals, secrets, and unsettling events. Explore this atmospheric quarter, where the past lingers in every shadow and corner. Uncover the captivating, if sometimes gruesome, history of Bedern, a place where the echoes of the past are still palpable.
Coppergate
Discover Coppergate, a vibrant street that was once a thriving Viking settlement. Today, it's known for its bustling shops and intriguing ghostly tales, with apparitions ranging from disgruntled Vikings to spectral businesswomen. Explore the Jorvik Viking Centre to delve into the area's rich Norse heritage, and keep an ear out for the whispers of the past as you walk the ancient streets. With its blend of history and haunting, Coppergate offers a unique and memorable experience.
The Shambles
Wander down The Shambles, a warped and wonderfully preserved medieval street. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings, The Shambles offers a unique glimpse into York's past. Originally a street of butcher shops, its quirky architecture and charming atmosphere make it one of the most photographed streets in Europe. Experience the enchanting ambiance of The Shambles, where history comes to life around every crooked corner.
Clifford's Tower
Conclude your tour at Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress perched atop a grassy mound with panoramic views of York. Explore the site of significant historical events, including a tragic massacre of the city's Jewish community in the 12th century. Learn about the tower's role in York's defenses and its transformation over the centuries. Reflect on the poignant history and somber atmosphere of Clifford's Tower, a powerful symbol of York's enduring past.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes a guide who will lead the tour and tell stories. There are no scheduled restroom breaks during the tour. This is a walking tour. Please be prepared to walk for the duration of the tour. Please keep in mind that private and small group tours are available if you want something different.
Hot Tip
Wear comfy shoes! You'll be walking a lot. Also, some streets can be busy, so stay close to your guide so you don't get lost in the crowd.
Review Summary
Customers generally say The Deathly Dark Tour of York is a fun, theatrical, and informative experience with a guide known for their dark sense of humor. Many appreciate the mix of history and spooky stories, as well as the family-friendly atmosphere, though some note that certain tales may be too intense for younger children. The tour is praised for its accessibility and engaging storytelling, but a few reviews mention that it is not a scare attraction and focuses more on history than actual scares.
Frequently Asked Questions
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