Gunpowder, Treason & Plot - A city walking tour of York

York , United Kingdom

Gunpowder, Treason & Plot - A city walking tour of York

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About this experience

Gunpowder, Plot and Treason
A Walking Tour Through York’s Darkest Legends

Step into the shadows of York’s bloodstained past.
From the birthplace of Guy Fawkes to the final cries at Clifford’s Tower, Gunpowder, Plot and Treason unearths the city’s most chilling tales of rebellion, betrayal, and forgotten heroes. Follow in the footsteps of criminals, martyrs, and monarchs — and discover the dark heartbeat that still echoes through York’s ancient streets.

History is written by the victors — but on this tour, you’ll hear the whispers of those who dared to defy them.

Available options

Gunpowder, Treason & Plot - A city walking tour of York

What's included

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Detailed itinerary

Guy Fawkes Inn — Birthplace of Treason

Our story of treachery begins at the Guy Fawkes Inn, birthplace of York’s most infamous figure.

Beneath ancient beams and flickering candlelight, you’ll step into the world of secret plots and deadly conspiracies.

Here, we trace Guy Fawkes’ path from a boy of York to the architect of one of England’s most daring acts of rebellion — the Gunpowder Plot.

Dark secrets and whispered betrayals await, as we delve into the heart of a scheme that could have changed the course of history forever.

King’s Manor — Power, Politics, and Betrayal

At King’s Manor, the story of York darkens further. Once the seat of royal power under Henry VIII, these walls bore witness to the brutal realities of rebellion and control.

Discover how the King's iron grip on the North was forged — and how York’s citizens navigated a world where loyalty was a matter of life or death.

The Last Drop Inn — A Final Toast to the Damned

The night grows darker as we arrive at the chilling Last Drop Inn, a place forever linked to York’s bloodstained past.

At the Last Drop Inn, the condemned of York took their final drink before facing execution. Their crimes, their desperate bargains, their final moments — all haunt these ancient walls.

We remember their forgotten stories, and a time when death was just a heartbeat away.

The Shrine of Margaret Clitherow — A Silent Sacrifice

At the Shrine of Margaret Clitherow, we find the story of a woman who defied the crown and paid with her life.

Her death — brutal and unjust — echoes through York’s dark past, a reminder of the courage it takes to stand against tyranny.

The Blue Boar — York’s Highwayman Haunt

Our path twists into legend and infamy as we reach The Blue Boar, a place where the ghost of York’s most notorious highwayman, Dick Turpin, still seems to linger.

Beneath the legend lies a darker truth of violence, betrayal, and death.

Stop 6

Clifford’s Tower — Where Rebellion Fell

At Clifford’s Tower, York’s brutal past is written in stone and blood. From Robert Aske’s doomed uprising to Roger Clifford’s tragic fall, this is a place where rebels died and kings tightened their grip on power.
Their ghosts linger still.

(This part of the tour will take place outside of Clifford's Tower, so no admission fee is necessary).

What's not included

Dinner

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Come on into The Guy Fawkes Inn on High Petergate at 7pm. If you're early tell a member of staff that you're there for the tour, and they will take care of you until the tour begins. I'll be in the bar area, hopefully recognisable from my yellow coat and my pictures from this listing.

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