img0 img1img2img3img4
Left Arrow
Right Arrow
img1
img2
img3
img4
Rating Star

Viator Rating : 5 (102 reviews)

Location Icon York

York's Villainous History & Rum Tasting Tour

Clock

30

Overview

Experience Intelligence

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

FAQs

Location

Overview

Quotes Logo Villainous History and Rum Tasting Tour in York: Step into a world of shadows and secrets at Villains Rum of York, a stone's throw from Stonegate. This isn't just a tour; it's an immersive indoor experience where York’s dark past comes alive. A villainous guide leads a small group through tales of plotters, poisoners, kings, and cutthroats—the real-life rogues who inspired the unique rums.

Expect to uncover the gripping stories of York's most notorious villains, brought to life with captivating storytelling, humor, and historical accuracy. The experience includes sampling handcrafted, locally inspired rums, each carefully linked to the villainous tale being told. Gin and alcohol-free options are also available for those who prefer them. The tour unfolds entirely inside Villains Rum's immersive rum shop, a villainous hideaway where the shadows always await, rain or shine.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, rum lovers, and anyone with a curious mind. Participants will be guided by live costumed villains, while discovering the true dark history of York’s most infamous characters. This includes alcoholic beverages to sample. This experience does not include anything that is not stated. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Uncover York's Dark History: Hear gripping tales of York's notorious villains.

Highlight Icon

Taste Handcrafted Rums: Sample unique, locally inspired rums linked to each villain's story.

Highlight Icon

Immersive Indoor Experience: Enjoy a thrilling tour inside a themed villainous hideaway.

Highlight Icon

Small-Group Setting: Get a personalized experience with a live villain guide.

Sentiment Analysis

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers enjoyed the villainous guides and stories.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Many loved sampling the different rums.

  • Positive Highlight Icon Visitors highlighted the fun and engaging way history was presented.

  • Positive Highlight Icon The small group setting was a plus.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some felt the tour could have been longer.

  • Negative Highlight Icon A few wished for more non-alcoholic choices.

The Journey

1

Villains Rum of York

Venture into Villains Rum of York, a unique experience blending the city's shadowy past with the craft of rum making. Discover the misdeeds of York's most infamous figures, from Guy Fawkes' gunpowder plot to the Viking kings' reign of terror, all while indulging in expertly crafted rum tastings. Located in a single, accessible room on Little Stonegate, this indoor experience is perfect for history buffs, dark tale enthusiasts, and rum aficionados. With tales told by a live villain guide, the experience is a tantalizing blend of history and flavour. Please note that this is an 18+ event, and ID may be required.

Know Before You Go

This indoor experience includes being guided by live costumed villains and the opportunity to discover the dark history of York's most infamous characters, complete with alcoholic beverage samples. It excludes any items not explicitly mentioned. The meetup point is at Villains Rum of York, located just off Stonegate.

Hot Tip

Reviewers suggest arriving a few minutes early to settle in and be ready to fully immerse in the villainous atmosphere. Also, consider trying the gin or alcohol-free options if rum isn't your preference; they're just as connected to the intriguing stories!

Review Summary

People usually say the Villainous History and Rum Tasting Tour is a fun, unique, and informative experience that blends local history with rum tasting in an entertaining way. Most travelers praise the knowledgeable and humorous guides, the variety of rums, and the immersive atmosphere of the shop. Some mention the short duration as a downside if expecting a longer activity, but overall, it's highly recommended for groups and couples looking for something different in York.

Frequently Asked Questions

This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team

From £25 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

More like this

Uncover York's Haunted History: Shadows Ghost Walk Adventure

Location Icon York

£13

Uncover York's Haunted History: Shadows Ghost Walk Adventure

Private and Luxury Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Curated Catalog

Rating Star 4.9 (1385 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 90 minutes

Shadows of York: Ghost Walk explores York's dark past through haunted streets. This PG-rated tour unveils tragic history with unexplained sightings. Traverse snickleways and discover eerie shadows, enriched with historic details of executions and plague. Best things to remember are in-depth historic details, some of which can be dark, sad or gory. Not recommended for children under 8.

Details

Book Now

Yorkshire Dales Tour: 'All Creatures Great & Small'

Location Icon York

£120

Yorkshire Dales Tour: 'All Creatures Great & Small'

Small Group Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Car Tours

Rating Star 5.0 (109 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 510 minutes

The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small tour offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes made famous by the beloved TV series. This small-group tour, limited to just six people, explores the hidden backroads and unspoiled countryside of James Herriot Country, inaccessible to larger tour groups.

Travelers will discover the rolling moors and lush valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, visit the fascinating 'World of James Herriot Museum' in Thirsk, and explore the ancient crypt beneath Ripon Cathedral. Along the way, discover the picturesque villages and breathtaking scenery showcased in 'All Creatures Great & Small.' The tour includes exploring Wharfedale & Wensleydale, visiting Grassington (the fictional Darrowby), and Alderson's Farm at Yockenthwaite. A visit to the Wensleydale Creamery provides a chance to taste local cheese, and countless photo opportunities await throughout the Yorkshire Dales.

What to Expect: The tour includes a local, experienced driver/guide, transportation by air-conditioned minibus, and an entrance ticket to the World of James Herriot Museum in Thirsk. Live commentary is provided onboard, along with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from accommodations in York city center. Please note that food, drinks, and gratuities are not included.

Details

Book Now

Whitby & Moors Steam Train Tour: Small Group, Local Guide

Location Icon York

£79

Whitby & Moors Steam Train Tour: Small Group, Local Guide

Curated Catalog Top Product Likely to Sell Out

Rating Star 5.0 (62 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 480 minutes

North York Moor Small Group Tours to Whitby including Steam Train: Explore the stunning North Yorkshire Moors with Greg, a local guide who makes the trip special. This small-group tour, with no more than 7 people, offers a personal experience, unlike large bus tours. Greg shares stories and facts about the area's history and culture, making it fun and easy to learn.

What to Expect: The tour visits beautiful places like the White Horse of Kilburn, Byland Abbey, and the charming town of Helmsley. The journey continues through the North York Moors National Park, with stops in quaint villages like Goathland, famous from Harry Potter and Heartbeat. The highlight is Whitby, a coastal town with a rich history. A steam train ride from Goathland to Whitby is included, offering a nostalgic trip through the moors. The small group size ensures a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where everyone feels like part of the Yorkshire family.

This adventure includes a scenic steam train ride from Goathland to Whitby, comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, regular stops for refreshments and photos, and live commentary in English from Greg. Food and drinks are not included.

Details

Book Now

Yorkshire Dales Day Trip: Explore from York!

Location Icon York

£59

Yorkshire Dales Day Trip: Explore from York!

Day Trips Bus Tours Seasonal

Rating Star 4.9 (214 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 495 minutes

The Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York lets everyone see the pretty Yorkshire Dales National Park. This bus tour takes you to cool places like Bolton Castle and Askrigg (where they filmed 'All Creatures Great and Small').

You'll also visit Kettlewell (from the 'Calendar Girls' movie), the Oldest Sweetshop in the World at Pateley Bridge, and Hawes. In Hawes, you can try yummy cheeses at the Wensleydale Creamery, the home of Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese! Expect a fun, relaxed trip with a friendly guide. The small group size ensures personal attention.

The tour includes comfy mini-coaches with air conditioning and WIFI. The driver is also your guide, telling you all about the places you see. There are lots of stops to take pictures, get snacks, or use the restroom. The tour starts and ends near York Minster. This experience does not include Entrance fees to attractions, food, drinks, or gratuities, these are all optional.

Details

Book Now

Hexham's Gruesome History: A Walking Tour

Location Icon Newcastle-upon-Tyne

£10

Hexham's Gruesome History: A Walking Tour

Private and Luxury Historical Tours Excellent Quality

Rating Star 5.0 (24 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 60 minutes

Gruesome Tour of Hexham: Discover the dark side of this historic Northumberland town. This easy walking tour is perfect for anyone looking for things to do in Hexham, especially outdoor activities. It's even dog-friendly!

The journey begins at the Moot Hall in Hexham Market Place. The tour follows a gentle, circular route, about 1 km long, showing you beautiful spots rarely seen by most visitors. Pass by Hexham Abbey, Sele Park, and Cockshaw before returning to the Market Place.

An experienced guide will bring Hexham's hidden history to life. Learn about crime and punishment, Hexham's own massacre, and the fight to save Hexham Abbey. Hear about the tanner's hard life and how bad hygiene was in the 1800s. This tour includes an storytelling guide. All refreshments are excluded. Key stops include Hexham Market Place, Hexham Abbey, Sele Park, Hexham Old Gaol, and Hexham House Grounds.

Details

Book Now

Liverpool Hidden Walk: Meet the Author & Get Signed Copy!

Location Icon Liverpool

£110

Liverpool Hidden Walk: Meet the Author & Get Signed Copy!

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Music Tours

Rating Star 5.0 (5 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 90 minutes

Meet the Author for a superb Liverpool Hidden Walk & signed copy, where visitors get to explore Liverpool with the person who knows it best – the author of 'Liverpool Hidden Walks'! This isn't just a tour; it's a chance to walk the city's secret paths with a local expert.

What to Expect: The experience includes a signed copy of the 'Liverpool Hidden Walks' book for each group. The tour starts with meeting the author, and then choosing a route from near the pickup point. The author then leads a private 90-minute walking tour, revealing hidden gems and historical spots.

Key stops include the Museum of Liverpool/Maritime Museum, where the city's nautical past comes alive. The tour visits the Billy Fury Statue, a tribute to the Liverpool-born rock icon. The walk also delves into Liverpool's Historical Context, Liverpool Town Hall, leading to The Cavern Club, the world-famous venue that launched the Beatles. The tour ends with the history of the Cavern Quarter, and John Lennon and Paul McCartney Introduction Site.

What's included: One signed copy per group of 'Liverpool Hidden Walks', a 90-minute private guided walking tour with the author.
What's excluded: Snacks. Visitors should bring their own if needed.

Details

Book Now

Nearby Events

Book The World of Hans Zimmer Tickets Birmingham

Location Icon Utilita Arena Birmingham

Oct 10

6:30 PM

Book The World of Hans Zimmer Tickets Birmingham

Music Film

The World of Hans Zimmer - A New Dimension at Utilita Arena Birmingham offers an unparalleled live music experience celebrating the legendary composer’s iconic film scores. This cinematic concert tour features mesmerizing orchestral suites, visually stunning projections, and powerful soundscapes curated by Hans Zimmer himself, bringing his award-winning compositions to life in Europe’s largest arenas.
The show includes performances by world-class musicians such as Grammy® nominee Matt Dunkley and the Odessa Orchestra & Friends, alongside the Nairobi Chamber Chorus. Utilita Arena Birmingham, known for hosting major concerts and events, provides a modern venue equipped for immersive audio-visual productions, making it the perfect setting for this extraordinary musical journey.

Details

Book Now

Guns 2 Roses Live at O2 Academy Leeds

Location Icon O2 Academy Leeds

Jan 24

7:00 PM

Guns 2 Roses Live at O2 Academy Leeds

Music

Guns 2 Roses brings a high-energy Guns N' Roses tribute performance to O2 Academy Leeds, supported by AC/DC Reborn and The L.A. Foo Fighters, promising a night of faithful renditions of classic rock anthems and arena-sized stagecraft as delivered by one of the world's longest-running tribute acts.[1][6][3]
Guns 2 Roses are renowned as a top Guns N' Roses tribute band—established in 2002 and noted for having performed with multiple original GNR members—so fans can expect faithful setlists and musicianship that honor the originals.[6][7] O2 Academy Leeds is a well-known mid-sized live music venue in the city, valued for its central location and lively acoustics that suit rock shows.[1]

Details

Book Now

Amaranthe & Epica Live at O2 Apollo Manchester 2026

Location Icon O2 Apollo Manchester

Jan 23

5:30 PM

Amaranthe & Epica Live at O2 Apollo Manchester 2026

Rock Alternative Rock Music

The Amaranthe & Epica - Arcane Dimensions Tour 2026 brings a powerful blend of symphonic and alternative rock to the iconic O2 Apollo Manchester. Featuring Epica, Amaranthe, and Charlotte Wessels, this concert promises a dynamic experience reflective of their latest musical innovations and enduring metal artistry.
The artists are celebrated for their fusion of melodic metal orchestration and catchy hooks, with Epica known for their symphonic metal grandeur and Amaranthe for their infectious alternative rock energy. The O2 Apollo Manchester, a Grade II listed Art Deco venue with a rich history dating back to 1938, offers an intimate atmosphere that enhances every note and lyric for its 3,500 attendees.

Details

Book Now

See CHOP SUEY + Slip-NOT + THE VIOLENT INZIDENT Live at Nightrain

Location Icon Nightrain

Feb 20

7:00 PM

See CHOP SUEY + Slip-NOT + THE VIOLENT INZIDENT Live at Nightrain

Metal Nu-Metal Music

CHOP SUEY, Slip-NOT, and THE VIOLENT INZIDENT come together for a raw and energetic live metal show at Nightrain, Bradford's premier rock and alternative venue. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and support for grassroots as well as international touring artists, this event promises a powerful night for Nu-Metal and metal fans alike.
CHOP SUEY and their fellow bands represent the cutting edge of the metal scene, delivering intense performances celebrated for blending aggression with technical skill. Nightrain, since opening in 2019, has earned a solid reputation as Bradford's hub for top-quality live music and late-night entertainment, offering a spacious stage and excellent sound that amplify every riff and beat.

Details

Book Now

Greg Davies Full Fat Legend Comedy Leeds 2026

Location Icon First Direct Arena

Mar 22

7:30 PM

Greg Davies Full Fat Legend Comedy Leeds 2026

Comedy Arts & Theatre

Greg Davies - Full Fat Legend brings one of Britain's sharpest comedians to First Direct Arena in Leeds for an unmissable evening of stand-up comedy. Davies, the award-winning performer best known as the Taskmaster on Channel 4's hit panel show, is renowned for his self-deprecating humor, commanding stage presence, and razor-sharp wit that has made him a standout figure in British comedy for over two decades. His towering 6'8" frame and distinctive baritone delivery create an unforgettable live experience that audiences across the UK have come to love.
Davies has built an impressive career spanning comedy, acting, and television presenting, with critically acclaimed roles in The Inbetweeners, Cuckoo, and Man Down, alongside his hosting duties on Taskmaster since 2015. His stand-up comedy career began in 2005 and has earned him multiple award nominations including BAFTA recognition, establishing him as one of the most talented entertainers in the industry. First Direct Arena is one of Leeds' premier live entertainment venues, offering a world-class setting for comedy events.

Details

Book Now

Daft Funk Live at O2 Ritz Manchester

Location Icon O2 Ritz Manchester

Jan 24

7:00 PM

Daft Funk Live at O2 Ritz Manchester

Rock Pop Music

Daft Funk Live brings an electrifying performance to O2 Ritz Manchester, one of the UK's most iconic music venues. This rock and pop experience showcases the band's dynamic energy and compelling soundscape, drawing fans eager for an unforgettable night of live music in Manchester's vibrant cultural heart.

Daft Funk has built a reputation for delivering high-octane performances that captivate audiences with their genre-blending approach and infectious stage presence. Held at O2 Ritz Manchester—a Grade II listed venue built in 1928 with a storied history hosting The Beatles, The Smiths, and legendary Manchester bands—this show combines world-class entertainment with the intimate charm of a 1,500-capacity ballroom featuring a rare sprung dancefloor.

Details

Book Now

The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Manchester

Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Manchester From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Walking Tours & Rock in Manchester. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.

View Manchester Activities