The York Witches and History Walking Tour

Discover the wicked history of York as you explore the secrets of the Shambles on a witchcraft-themed walking tour. Join your character guide and listen to the legends and folklore of York’s medieval old town.

Join a characterful witch guide to discover York’s history and reveal the secrets of the Shambles on this spellbinding walking tour,. Watch out on the cobbles as you lend your ear to terrible tales of the witches of Yorkshire. Tread lightly as you walk through York Minster, Petergate and Stonegate – the very grounds on which these mysterious and sometimes sinister events occurred. Hear historical tales and legends that focus on witchcraft. Explore Shambles and discover the unpleasant past of this now picturesque street.

Meet your guide by the sign on this puzzling little street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate, the smallest street with possibly the longest name in York. It is said the name means ‘What a street’. Then, view the remains of the St Crux Church, originally the largest medieval parish church in York. Continue to King’s Square, where you learn more about the area and hear the tale of the magical tree with a witchy connection.

Your tour then continues through the old quarter of York, the Minster Quarter, where you pass the lively shopping area of York. Stroll through Low Petergate and High Petergate and listen to the fascinating and wicked stories of the past.

Then, marvel at the grandeur of one of the world’s most magnificent and iconic cathedrals, York Minster. Right opposite, see the St. Michael Le Belfrey Church and hear more spooky and witchery tales.

Enjoy the sights of the architecture of medieval buildings and gorgeous Georgian townhouses in Stonegate, one of York’s most historical roads. Explore the alleys, ginnels and snickets of the city and walk through York’s longest snickelway; narrow alleys in the streets of York. Feel the chills in the air in the hidden courtyard of Barley Hall.

Back to where it all began, this spellbinding old town walking tour lets you discover the wicked history of medieval York!