York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

York , United Kingdom

York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

45m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

York is Europe’s most haunted city. Its over 2,000 years of turbulent history has created the perfect environment for lingering spirits. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll visit the city’s most haunted public houses, each one teeming with tales of ghostly figures and unexplained phenomena.

The tour starts at Bootham Bar, one of York’s ancient gateways to the city. You’ll weave through medieval streets to visit historic pubs like the Hole in the Wall, where a prison hatch once allowed patrons to pass drinks to unfortunate inmates, and the Guy Fawkes Inn, named after one of Britain’s most notorious would-be assassins.

Along the way, you’ll find out how the city’s pubs have been the setting for tragic deaths, sinister plots, and unexplained hauntings that continue to this day. You’ll hear about the Mad Maid who still cleans the Dean Court Hotel, the ghostly Roman soldier in the Hole in the Wall’s cellar, and the bride who appears only to those suffering from recent heartbreak.

Available options

York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

You’ll pass by Bootham Bar, a historic stone gateway that once formed part of York’s medieval city defenses.

You’ll pass by the Hole in the Wall, a traditional York pub known for its historic setting and classic atmosphere. Please note that entry to the pub and any purchases made there are not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by Dean Court in York, a notable historic hotel overlooking York Minster. Please note that entry to the hotel and any costs related to visiting or dining there are not included in this tour.

Stop 4 Pass by

You’ll see York Minster, one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Please note that entry to the Minster is not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Guy Fawkes Inn, a historic pub and hotel said to stand on the birthplace of Guy Fawkes. Please note that entry to the inn and any purchases made there are not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Snickleway Inn, a historic pub in York reputed to be one of the city’s most haunted. Please note that entry to the inn and any purchases made there are not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Golden Fleece, a historic pub in York famous for its ghost stories and traditional interior. Please note that entry to the pub and any purchases made there are not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Black Swan, a historic pub in York known for its timber-framed exterior and traditional charm. Please note that entry to the pub and any purchases made there are not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts in front of Bootham Bar. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About York

York is a historic city in northern England, known for its well-preserved Roman and Viking heritage. With its medieval walls, stunning Gothic cathedral, and charming cobbled streets, York offers a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.

Top Attractions

York Minster

York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years.

Historical 2-3 hours £14

The Shambles

The Shambles is a historic street in York that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe and is known for its narrow, cobbled lanes and overhanging timber-framed buildings.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free

York Castle Museum

The York Castle Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of York from the Victorian era to the present day. It is housed in a former prison and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays.

Museum 2-3 hours £15

Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum that brings the Viking Age to life through a range of interactive exhibits and displays. It is built on the site of a major Viking settlement and features a ride that takes visitors on a journey through Viking York.

Historical 1-2 hours £16.50

Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours £8.50

National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is a museum that tells the story of Britain's railway history. It features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a collection of historic locomotives and carriages.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Yorkshire Pudding

A traditional British dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, which is baked until crispy and golden. It is often served with roast beef and gravy.

Main Course Contains gluten and eggs

Yorkshire Curry

A unique fusion of British and Indian cuisine, featuring a curry made with local ingredients such as Yorkshire lamb or pork.

Main Course May contain gluten, dairy, and nuts

Fat Rascal

A traditional Yorkshire scone made with currants, citrus peel, and spices. It is often served with clotted cream and jam.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs

Yorkshire Wontons

A modern twist on a traditional Chinese dish, featuring wontons filled with local ingredients such as Yorkshire cheese or pork.

Appetizer May contain gluten, dairy, and pork

Popular Activities

Hiking in the North York Moors Cycling along the River Ouse Kayaking on the River Ouse Spa treatments in Harrogate Picnicking in the Museum Gardens Strolling along the River Ouse Visiting York Minster Exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit York, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the weather is generally pleasant.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

York is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas
• Avoid isolated areas at night
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Leeds Bradford Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
Manchester Airport • 80 miles (129 km)

By train

York Railway Station

By bus

York Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in York is comprehensive, with frequent services to all parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The City Centre Bootham Micklegate The Groves Haxby

Day trips

Castle Howard

15 miles (24 km) • Half day

Castle Howard is a stunning stately home and gardens located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful architecture, extensive gardens, and fascinating history. The estate is home to a range of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a number of walking trails.

The North York Moors

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

The North York Moors is a beautiful national park located just outside of York. It is known for its stunning landscapes, extensive walking trails, and fascinating wildlife. The park is home to a range of attractions, including a number of historic sites, as well as a number of charming villages and towns.

Whitby

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

Whitby is a charming coastal town located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fascinating literary connections. The town is home to a range of attractions, including a number of museums, a historic abbey, and a number of charming shops and cafes.

Festivals

York Festival of Food and Drink • September York Christmas Market • December York Early Music Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit York Minster early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's historic streets and alleys, such as The Shambles and Stonegate, for a unique and charming experience
Take a guided tour of the city's medieval walls and underground chambers for a fascinating insight into its history
Visit the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history and see a range of interactive exhibits and displays
Attend a performance at the York Theatre Royal or the York Early Music Festival for a unique cultural experience