Don’t be afraid for there are lots of things to do in York, Europe’s most haunted city, besides hunting for ghosts.
York, England | UK
Imagine walking through Diagon Alley, the cobbled lane with crooked shopfronts where Harry Potter and his mates go shopping for all things magical because that is what it feels like to explore York’s medieval city centre! York is encircled by a magnificent 13th-century wall within which is a spiderweb of lanes and alleyways dating back to medieval times. This labyrinthine maze of cobbled lanes and timber-framed buildings gives the city an aura of magic and suspense which is multiplied many times by York’s reputation as one of Europe’s most haunted cities. York’s haunted pubs and inns are visited by paranormal investigators from across the world!
Our last trip before York was to two of Scotland’s most stunning islands, the Isle of Rum and the Isle of Canna, and we were looking for a city break. We are glad we chose York for we were truly enchanted and spent hours exploring the winding lanes and marvelling at the historic buildings! There seemed to be something magical at every corner. It was fun to watch visitors enjoying Harry Potter tours– we spotted tour guides dressed as witches and wizards, complete with flowing robes and pointy hats– and ghost tours. We heard numerous ghost stories, stopped at many haunted pubs, and had an amazing weekend! It was wonderful ambling through the alleys as the bells tolled at the Minster and echoed all across town. We stopped at bakeries and cafes for refreshments and stuffed our faces with enormous sandwiches and traditional pies. If you love shopping, you will have the best time in York for the city is full of independent shops selling anything from potions to ghosts, and antique books to local crafts.
Don’t worry if magic and spirits are not your thing. The awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the world’s most stunning Gothic cathedrals, stands at the heart of York and you can take a tour to learn more about its history, architecture, and religious significance. York’s many museums and buildings will take you back in time for York’s history dates back to the Romans and you can peel back the layers from Romans to Normans to Anglo-Saxons, and modern times as York has successfully retained its pre-industrial era legacy.
Things to do in York
- How to Reach York
- Where to Stay in York
- Things to do in York
- Visit York Minster
- Explore the Medieval City of York
- Tour the Shambles aka Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley
- Visit the Shambles Market
- Join a Walking Tour to learn About York’s History
- Walk the City Walls of York
- Join a Ghost Tour in York
- Marvel at Treasurer’s House
- Take in the Grand Halls of Fairfax House
- See the Ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey in York
- Go on a Pub Crawl in York
- Visit the Historic Barley Hall
- Visit the Guild Hall and the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall
- Learn York’s History at Yorkshire Museum
- Go on the York Cat Trail
- Buy Some Ghosts at York Ghost Merchants
- See Some Art at the York Art Gallery
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How to Reach York
York is one of the most important cities in northern England and therefore well-connected by bus and train routes. The Edinburgh to London east coast mainline goes through York. There are direct connections to Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Scarborough, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, and other locations.
HOW TO SAVE ON A TRIP TO YORK? If you are travelling on a budget and/or would like to save some pounds, you must get the York City Pass! The pass covers York’s main attractions such as Yorkshire Museum, Barley Hall, City Cruises, etc. plus discounts on taxi fares, ghost walks, and other activities.
Where to Stay in York
York is choc-a-bloc with hotels, guesthouses, and traditional inns. If you are looking for a unique place to stay in York, here are our recommendations:
🏕️ YHA York | We stayed at YHA York. Located a 20-minute walk from the city centre, the YHA offers dorms and ensuite private rooms at very reasonable rates and is very popular with guests. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen, a drying room, laundry services, and a lovely cafe and bar where you can order food and drinks. Like all YHAs, a breakfast buffet is available for guests. Their sprawling garden is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine on a summer’s day.
Hocus Pocus Tiny Hotel | Located in the heart of the city, next to the famous Shambles, is one of the best places to stay in York: the Hocus Pocus Tiny Hotel. They are a magic-themed hotel located in a 17th-century building. They also have magic- and witchcraft-themed events that guests can participate in!
Trembling Madness Apartments | If you want to stay in a haunted house in York, book a stay at Trembling Madness Apartments. There are two self-catering apartments here: The Chamber, a timber-framed medieval structure of unknown history, where previous guests have reported ghostly sightings, and The Old Gallery which is supposedly not very haunted!
Golden Fleece Inn | Want to stay in a medieval inn that is also a beloved haunt of ghostly spirits? Book a stay at the atmospheric 16th-century Golden Fleece Inn, one of York’s oldest inns and also one of its most haunted inns– the pub is said to have 15 resident ghosts! On your stay in one of the four bedrooms, you may see Lady Alice Peckett, the wife of a former mayor of York, floating up and down the staircase. Or, you stumble into One-Eyed Jack, who seems to favour the downstairs pub in his old red coat.
Dean Court Hotel | Look no further than Dean Court Hotel if you want to spend a night partying with the supernatural. Among the most well-known ghosts at this hotel is the ‘Mad Maid’ who carries out her cleaning duties. Ask for room 36, if you are a brave soul, for guests staying in this room have reported poltergeist-like activities such as slamming doors and the unnerving sensation of an unseen hand pushing down on their chests
Things to do in York
There are lots and lots of fantastic things to do in York.
Visit York Minster
York Minster, formally known as the “Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York,” is one of the grandest Gothic cathedrals in the world and among the largest in Northern Europe. Its construction spans several centuries, showcasing Early English, Decorated, and Perpendicular Gothic styles. The Minster houses a vast collection of medieval stained glass, including the renowned Great East Window, the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the UK, depicting biblical scenes. Another notable window is the Five Sisters Window, the world’s largest expanse of grisaille glass. The intricate stone carvings, soaring arches, and majestic towers reflect architectural evolution from the 13th to the 15th centuries. We spent close to 3 hours here and loved every moment ooh-ing and aah-ing at the grand architecture and the stunning stained glasses. For a few extra pounds, you can also climb the Minster’s Tower for a breathtaking view of York City and the surrounding countryside.
In the Minster’s Undercroft Museum, we saw remnants of the Roman city. There is lots to learn about York’s history from Roman soldiers to Viking connections, and view archaeological finds in modern chambers beneath the cathedral. The Undercroft Museum showcases two millennia of York’s history through digital displays and previously unseen artefacts from the cathedral’s collection.
Explore the Medieval City of York
York’s picturesque old city is full of treasures. The old city centre is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and vibrant shopping. The Shambles, a well-preserved medieval street, features timber-framed buildings from the 14th century, now housing quaint shops and cafes. The York Minster dominates the skyline with its Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass. The Bar Walls offer a unique perspective on York’s medieval past, providing stunning city views. Shopping in York is delightful, with high-street favourites and independent stores. Stonegate and Swinegate feature medieval and Georgian architecture, while Parliament Street and Coney Street host well-known retail chains.
GO DOWN A SNICKLEWAY: York’s lanes and alleys, known locally as “snickelways,” are a captivating maze that transports you back in time. These narrow, winding passages are lined with charming, timber-framed buildings that lean precariously over cobblestone paths. Each turn reveals a new surprise: a hidden courtyard, a quaint tea room, or a centuries-old pub. The air is filled with the scent of fresh pastries from nearby bakeries and the distant chime of church bells. As you wander, you’ll encounter vibrant street performers, antique shops brimming with curiosities, and historic plaques that whisper tales of York’s storied past. The snickelways are not just thoroughfares but living museums, where every brick and beam tells a story. Whether bathed in the golden glow of a summer evening or shrouded in the mist of a winter morning, York’s lanes and alleys offer an enchanting journey through history.
Tour the Shambles aka Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley
One of the top things to do in York is to visit the Shambles. Mentioned in the Domesday Book as the street of the butchers of York, Shambles is considered the oldest street in the city. It is considered by many to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, the crooked street where Harry Potter goes to get all his magical supplies and is therefore a top spot on any UK Harry Potter itinerary. The Shambles, indeed, has the same magical atmosphere! Crooked buildings featuring cantilever first-floor ‘jetty’ which overhangs the ground floor stand on both sides of this narrow street. In some places, the buildings are so close that you could shake hands with your neighbour or share a charcuterie board! We had a fabulous time window-shopping as this cobbled street is lined with interesting shops such as York Ghost Merchants, Monk Chocolatiers, Shambles Kitchen, The Shop that Must Not be Named, The Society of Alchemists, and numerous others. In front of some shops, you can still see the medieval meat hooks and display counters.
TIP: The Shambles is York’s most popular tourist attraction and it gets as crowded as it gets during Durga Puja in Calcutta! If you want to skip the crowds, visit before 8 AM. If you want to visit a particular shop, check the timings and consider visiting when it opens.
Visit the Shambles Market
If you know us, you know we love visiting markets be it the gorgeous arcades of Newcastle or the open-air markets of Belgrade. Located right next to the Shambles is Shambles Market where you can shop for beautiful, locally-made arts and crafts, and hyperlocal produce. The Shambles is one of the best places to eat in York. There are several food trucks here and you can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines from British to Mexican and we loved spending some time in the sun, nibbling on delicious food. Seat yourself at one of the teal picnic benches under the umbrellas and enjoy your lunch! In summer, Shambles Market is open on all days of the week but there are more stalls on the weekend.
WHERE TO EAT IN THE SHAMBLES: You must get some pies from Shambles Sausage & Pie Company for they are some of the best pies we have ever tasted! If you want to try the York Eggs, go early for these massive bacon-wrapped scotch eggs sell out in the blink of an eye. Don’t forget the memorable baked items at Bluebird. We can’t wait to go back and savour another one of their Bengali Five-spice Roll and Earl Grey Tea Cakes!
Endure the queues and don’t miss the impeccable sandwiches at Shambles Kitchen. Next, make your way into Shambles Market where you must try the fare at Los Moros, Smokehouse Burritos, Nana Noodle Bar, and KREP.
Join a Walking Tour to learn About York’s History
There are various walking tours in York but we recommend the one led by the Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York. The 2 hours walking tour is led by locals and takes you to some of York’s main historical sites. It offers a fascinating glimpse into its past, with timelines ranging from Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Medieval, Viking, Norman, Victorian, and more. Explore Eboracum, the ancient Roman fortress established in AD 71. Key highlights include the Multangular Tower, a remarkable example of Roman military architecture, and the Roman Column near York Minster. Walk along the City Walls, originally built by the Romans, and discover the remains of Roman baths and mosaics. Knowledgeable guides bring history to life, sharing stories of Roman emperors and soldiers who once walked these streets. These tours provide a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience York’s rich Roman heritage.
Walk the City Walls of York
Walking over York City walls offers a unique glimpse into history. These ancient fortifications, dating back to Roman times, provide stunning views of the city, including landmarks like York Minster and Clifford’s Tower. The walls feature four main gates: Bootham Bar, Monk Bar, Walmgate Bar, and Micklegate Bar, each with its own historical significance. As you stroll along the well-preserved paths, you’ll feel connected to centuries of heritage, making it a memorable and enriching experience.
Join a Ghost Tour in York
York’s ghost tours offer a spine-chilling journey through one of Europe’s most haunted cities. While there are countless ghost tours in York, these are some of the more popular ones. The Ghost Hunt of York takes you through eerie alleys and haunted sites, sharing tales of phantoms and paranormal activity. The Ghost Bus Tours provide a theatrical experience aboard a vintage bus, exploring York’s dark history. The Original Ghost Walk of York, established in 1973, promises authentic storytelling and encounters with the supernatural. Each tour reveals the city’s hidden, ghostly past, making for an unforgettable experience. Make sure you book using your York City Pass!
Marvel at Treasurer’s House
Treasurer’s House, near York Minster, showcases period furniture, glass, and china. Once home to the Minster’s treasurers, it’s now a National Trust property. You can go on guided tours (free if you have a National Trust Membership) to learn about the history of the house and see its antique furniture and paintings.
YORK’S MOST FAMOUS GHOST SIGHTING: Treasurer’s house is also the location of York’s most famous ghost sighting. In 1953, Harry Martindale, a young apprentice heating engineer, had a terrifying encounter while working in the cellar of Treasurer’s House. He witnessed a procession of Roman soldiers, appearing as ghostly figures, marching through the cellar wall. The soldier walked through the cellar and disappeared into the opposite wall. Following behind the soldier came another soldier, riding a horse. Following along behind them came more soldiers, two abreast, 20 in total. Every soldier that walked through was only visible from the knees up as they were walking on the original Roman ground level, a little below the level of the cellar floor. Despite the extraordinary nature of the event, his story was initially dismissed. However, excavations revealing that Treasurer’s House is located on top of one of the major roads in Eboracum, the via Decumana, gave credibility to Martindale’s account.
Take in the Grand Halls of Fairfax House
If you love historic houses, you will love Fairfax House. It is located on Castlegate and is a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse that once served as the winter home for Viscount Fairfax and his daughter, Anne. Designed by architect John Carr, the house features stunning stucco ceilings and period furnishings. It houses the Noel Terry collection, which includes Chippendale furniture, clocks, paintings, and decorative arts. Visitors can explore the tastes and lifestyles of York’s 18th-century gentry and enjoy various special events and exhibitions throughout the year. Fairfax House offers a captivating experience, showcasing the grandeur of York’s historical past.
See the Ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey in York
Founded in 1088, St. Mary’s Abbey was once one of Northern England’s wealthiest abbeys. Dismantled during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s, its remains now lie in the serene York Museum Gardens. You can explore the picturesque ruins, including the surviving nave, crossing, and medieval Hospitium. The gardens also house the Yorkshire Museum, enhancing the historical experience. Walking among the ancient stones, you’ll feel a deep connection to York’s rich ecclesiastical past, making it a truly enriching visit.
Go on a Pub Crawl in York
Going on a pub crawl is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in York! Locals say there are 365 pubs in York, one for each day of the year! Some are historic, some are haunted while others are modern and trendy, and no matter what type of pub you like the most, there’s always an opportunity for a pub crawl in York. Some of the pubs we visited in York were Guy Fawkes Inn, famed as the birthplace of Guy Fawkes, Ye Old Starre Inne and The Old White Swan, two of York’s oldest pubs, Pivni which is housed in a Tudoresque building and has a fine collection of whisky, Valhalla which is a Viking-themed pub serving craft beers and an excellent selection of mead, and The Fat Badger, a modern pub. We recommend all of them!
TIP: If you love a good Sunday roast, York’s pubs are some of the best places to try some. Ye Olde Starre Inne, Whippet Inn, and Chopping Block at Walmgate Ale House are the top favourites.
Visit the Historic Barley Hall
Barley Hall, a restored medieval townhouse in York, was built around 1360 by Nostell Priory monks. It later became home to William Snawsell, a goldsmith and former Mayor of York. Rediscovered in the 1980s, it was restored by the York Archaeological Trust and reopened as a museum. Visitors can explore its Great Hall, high ceilings, and timber frames, experiencing medieval life. The hall hosts exhibitions, medieval feasts, and themed tours, offering an immersive glimpse into York’s history and architecture. Thanks to a glass wall, you can see glimpses of a hall inside Barley Hall from Coffee Yard.
Visit the Guild Hall and the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall
Exploring the Guild Hall and the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall in York provides a captivating look into the city’s historical tapestry. The Guild Hall, a Grade I and II listed building along the River Ouse, doubles as a conference and events venue, as well as a workspace and business hub. Its remarkable architecture and historical importance make it a must-visit for those interested in York’s civic heritage. The Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, one of the world’s finest medieval guild halls, is nestled in beautiful gardens in the city centre. This 14th-century timber-framed building originally served York’s merchants for business, charity, and worship. Today, it operates as a museum, wedding venue, and hospitality space, displaying rare artefacts such as a medieval evidence chest and records dating back to the 13th century, and celebrating York’s entrepreneurial legacy.
Learn York’s History at Yorkshire Museum
Visiting the Yorkshire Museum in York offers a comprehensive journey through the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the medieval era. The museum features five permanent collections covering biology, geology, archaeology, numismatics, and astronomy. Highlights include a genuine Roman mosaic floor, the medieval shrine of St. William, and exhibits showcasing ancient fossils and artefacts. The museum’s interactive galleries provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages, with displays that bring history to life. Special exhibitions and educational programs further enrich the visit, offering deeper insights into York’s past.
Go on the York Cat Trail
The York Cat Trail is a fun self-guided walk in York, featuring over 20 cat sculptures on buildings. These statues, originally meant to ward off pests and bring good luck, celebrate York’s historical connection with cats. In medieval times, cat statues were placed on buildings to ward off rats and mice, as well as to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits. The trail starts at York Glass on the Shambles where you can pick up a map (or, download it online). The trail offers a fun way to explore York’s history and architecture through charming cat statues.
Buy Some Ghosts at York Ghost Merchants
Over the years, York Ghost Merchants have gained a cult following thanks to their popular ghost souvenirs, testaments to York’s fame as Europe’s most haunted city. All ghosts are locally handcrafted by “ghostmakers” in a workshop in York. Their three-storey shop in the Shambles has people queueing as early as 6 am to get their hands on rare and limited edition “ghosts”! Because the shop is like a cabinet of curiosities, visitors often take a long time to browse the vast collection and pick a ghost. This means even a short 10-person queue can have an hour-long wait time! If you would like a ghost but don’t have time to brave the queue, head to their little shop at the Dispensary.
See Some Art at the York Art Gallery
Visiting York Art Gallery offers a rich cultural experience with its diverse collection of over 1,000 paintings, including works by Italian masters, French impressionists, and modern British artists like L.S. Lowry and David Hockney. The museum’s Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA) showcases an extensive collection of British studio ceramics.
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