Walk through York’s medieval streets from Bootham Bar to the city’s oldest inns on a self-guided audio tour that traces hauntings, history, and storied cellars. Expect cobbles, close-quarter alleys, and the chance to step inside pubs with centuries of tales.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You start at Bootham Bar—stone arch framed by walls that have watched York’s streets for eight centuries—where the air tastes like rain and the River Ouse dares you to follow the city’s darker stories. The route slips through cramped medieval lanes, past timbered façades and low cellar doors that once held secrets and now hold pints.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45–75 minutes
Fitness Level
Basic walking fitness—able to stand and walk on uneven cobbles for up to an hour; intermittent stairs.
Wildlife
History
York’s streets are built atop Roman and Viking layers; many inns trace their functions to medieval guilds and trading networks that shaped public houses as civic hubs.
Conservation
Respect historic interiors and avoid touching fragile timbers; support local conservation by buying locally and minimizing litter in narrow lanes.
Reserve your spot on the York’s Haunted Pubs: A Self-Guided Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start at Bootham Bar
Begin at the stone gateway so the app’s GPS cues align with the mapped route.
Bring solid shoes
Cobblestones and cellar steps require grippy footwear—avoid slick soles.
Carry small change or a card
If you plan to go inside pubs, many accept cards but smaller venues may prefer cash.
Use offline maps
Download the tour content and offline map beforehand to avoid signal gaps in narrow lanes.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction for cobbles and cellar steps keeps you steady on the route.
Light rain jacket
York’s weather can turn quickly; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable.
fall
Charged phone with power bank
Runs the self-guided app and GPS; extra power ensures the tour won’t cut out.
Cash and contactless card
Useful for small purchases or tipping when entering pubs that prefer cash.