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

Viator Rating : 5 (103 reviews)

Dyvarcity Score Icon

Dyvarcity Score : 8.3/10 (Verified Excellent)

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

Experience DNA Fingerprint

Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.

What People Love

Safety (9 - Secure)

Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control

Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent)

Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs

Logistics (9 - Seamless)

Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed

Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible)

Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people

Pacing (8 - Balanced)

Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing

Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional)

Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable

Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable)

Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through

What to Watch Out For

Crowd Density (6 - Standard)

Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots

Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic)

Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments

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.

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

Enchanting Escapades: York's Award-Winning Wizard Walk for Families!

Location Icon York

£12

Enchanting Escapades: York's Award-Winning Wizard Walk for Families!

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Walking Tours Short term availability

Rating Star 4.9 (911 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 75 minutes

The Wizard Walk of York, designed for families with kids aged 5-10, offers a magical blend of comedy and spellbinding fun. Stepping away from ghost walks, it is a memorable experience. Perfect for Harry Potter lovers (but no prior knowledge needed!). Embark on a 5-star adventure with Phoenix the Red or Viridian The Green.

Details

Book Now

Leeds Highlights: 2-Hour Walking Tour

Location Icon Leeds

£12

Leeds Highlights: 2-Hour Walking Tour

Walking Tours Historical Tours Cultural Tours

Rating Star 5.0 (203 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 120 minutes

The 2 Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour explores the best of this vibrant city. It's perfect for both locals and visitors. A friendly guide will reveal Leeds' history through its buildings, spaces, stories, and people.

Visitors will discover what makes Leeds an exciting place. Expect to see iconic landmarks like Park Square and Leeds Town Hall. The tour also passes through Millennium Square and Leeds Art Gallery. Don't miss Thornton's Arcade, Leeds Grand Theatre, Victoria Gate Arcade, Kirkgate Market, and the Corn Exchange.

This walking tour includes a professional guide. It does not include food, drinks, or personal shopping expenses. This tour gives an overview of Leeds' rich industrial heritage.

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

Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Bus Tours Private and Luxury

Rating Star 5.0 (63 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

Uncover North Wales: An Adventure Day Trip from Liverpool

Location Icon Liverpool

£50.15

Uncover North Wales: An Adventure Day Trip from Liverpool

Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Day Trips Top Product

Rating Star 4.9 (671 reviews)

Duration In Minutes Duration: 570 minutes

The North Wales Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip offers an immersive journey through stunning landscapes. Enjoy hidden routes and sights unseen by typical tourists, led by enthusiastic driver-guides. Expect fun, laughter, and expertly navigated explorations into North Wales' beautiful scenery, all in a single day.

Details

Book Now

Nearby Events

Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles at Rotherham Civic

Location Icon Rotherham Civic Theatre

Mar 28

7:30 PM

Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles at Rotherham Civic

Comedy Arts & Theatre

Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles brings the UK's leading comedian-magician to Rotherham Civic Theatre for an uproarious blend of mind-bending illusions and cheeky humor. Pete, who first captivated audiences as 'Tufty' in Channel 5's Monkey Magic, has evolved into magic's poster boy with sell-out Edinburgh Fringe runs and tours blending traditional tricks with ironic twists.
Pete Firman's unique style reinvents magic for modern crowds, drawing from his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and decades of TV triumphs like The Next Great Magician and Good Omens. Rotherham Civic Theatre, a historic venue in South Yorkshire, offers an intimate setting perfect for his high-energy shows.

Details

Book Now

Lord of The Dance 30th Anniversary Tickets Sheffield

Location Icon Sheffield City Hall Oval Hall

Aug 20

7:45 PM

Lord of The Dance 30th Anniversary Tickets Sheffield

Dance Arts & Theatre

Lord of The Dance: 30th Anniversary returns to Sheffield City Hall Oval Hall with a spectacular celebration of Irish dance innovation and theatrical artistry. This milestone tour features brand-new choreography, stunning costumes, and cutting-edge lighting, promising audiences a visually thrilling and emotionally charged experience at one of Sheffield's most iconic venues.
Celebrating over 30 years since its debut, Lord of The Dance has captivated more than 60 million fans worldwide with its dynamic fusion of Irish dance, music, and storytelling. Sheffield City Hall Oval Hall, known for its elegant architecture and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for this theatrical extravaganza that continues to redefine live dance performance.

Details

Book Now

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

One Night In Nashville Live at Foundry Sheffield

Location Icon Foundry, Sheffield

Apr 25

7:30 PM

One Night In Nashville Live at Foundry Sheffield

Country Music

One Night In Nashville brings the electrifying honky-tonk spirit to Foundry in Sheffield, celebrating country music icons from Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift to Johnny Cash and Chris Stapleton. This immersive show delivers a true taste of Nashville's vibrant energy through high-energy performances of timeless hits.
One Night In Nashville captivates audiences with the biggest modern country anthems from artists like Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, and Kacey Musgraves, blended seamlessly with tributes to legendary idols. The Foundry, housed within Sheffield Students' Union, offers an intimate venue perfect for this country music extravaganza.

Details

Book Now

Foil Arms & Hog Live Comedy at Symphony Hall Birmingham

Location Icon Symphony Hall

Mar 28

7:30 PM

Foil Arms & Hog Live Comedy at Symphony Hall Birmingham

Comedy Arts & Theatre

Foil Arms & Hog bring their latest sketch show, Skittish, to the iconic Symphony Hall in Birmingham, offering an evening filled with sharp comedy and inventive sketches. Known for their energetic performances and witty takes on contemporary themes, this Irish trio continues to captivate audiences worldwide with fresh, original material.
Hailing from Dublin, Foil Arms & Hog consists of Sean Finegan, Conor McKenna, and Sean Flanagan, whose chemistry and comedic timing have earned them a devoted fanbase and viral success on YouTube. Symphony Hall, renowned for its superb acoustics and elegant setting, provides the perfect backdrop for their live theatrical comedy experience.

Details

Book Now

Chris McCausland: Yonks! Live in Harrogate

Location Icon The Royal Hall

Mar 28

8:00 PM

Chris McCausland: Yonks! Live in Harrogate

Comedy Arts & Theatre

Chris McCausland: Yonks! brings the acclaimed British stand-up comedian to The Royal Hall in Harrogate for an evening of sharp, witty comedy. McCausland, a 47-year-old Liverpool native, has established himself as one of Britain's most popular television personalities, known for his quick-witted quips and self-deprecating humor across flagship shows like Would I Lie to You?, Have I Got News for You, and Live at the Apollo. His rise to prominence has been marked by both critical acclaim and a groundbreaking appearance as the first-ever blind contestant on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, where he became a fan favorite.
Beyond his television success, McCausland's stand-up comedy career spans over two decades, beginning in 2003 after a pivotal moment of inspiration. Despite living with retinitis pigmentosa, a hereditary eye condition that left him completely blind by age 22, he has become a celebrated performer who has taken six shows to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and won numerous awards for his craft. The Royal Hall, a prestigious venue in Harrogate, provides an intimate setting for audiences to experience his distinctive comedic voice and storytelling prowess.

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