Top York Half-day Tours

Puzzle fans need look no further than this immersive York treasure hunt murder mystery, set in 1491, that’s sent to your phone (over the Telegram app) as a series of riddles. Discover classic sights and quirky delights as you unravel each cryptic clue, unlock the path to the next location—and bring the criminal to justice. You’ll cover around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers), with two optional pub breaks en route.

See the historic city of York from a different perspective during a 45-minute or 1-hour cruise on the Ouse River. Relax during a leisurely sail, accompanied by commentary that details the history and culture of York, and enjoy unobstructed views of landmarks such as Clifford’s Tower and the York Museum and Gardens. Choose from several departure times to suit your schedule.

The Ghost Hunt of York offers an evening, walking ghost tour of York`s haunted locations. Whatever the weather and always on time, the Victorian guide with his frock coat, top hat and Gladstone bag manifests at the strike of half past seven at the bottom of Shambles, England's most famous mediaeval street. Ringing his death bell he gathers the awaiting ghost hunters and leads on to York`s darker side. The Ghost Hunt presents classic York ghost stories in a captivating style, no tardy tales of tedium but intelligent, energetic accounts from a guide with a predilection for fun and entertainment, illustrating the narrative with props and illusion. It is a journey that takes your emotions from horror to hilarity. The ghostly guide puts the crowd up to practical jokes and comic re-enactment in hysterical moments of audience participation.

Delve into the dark recesses of York’s history on this evening ghost bus tour. With your spooky local guide, visit notorious local haunts of restless spirits, and pass eerie sites such as York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, and the grave of Dick Turpin, infamous highwayman and murderer. Throughout the tour, hear anecdotes and fascinating facts about York’s grisly past, and make key stops for a closer look at the city’s most haunted buildings. 

Combine two activities in one—a leisurely river cruise, plus traditional afternoon tea—on this sightseeing tour. Board the Captain James Cook in central York, and wend your way down the River Ouse. As you go, admire the city’s scenic riverbanks while also indulging in finger sandwiches, scones and pastries, plus tea and coffee (upgrade to add a prosecco accompaniment to your afternoon tea). You’ll also see the opulent Bishopthorpe Palace, home to the Archbishop of York.

Skip the standard group tours and enjoy an alternative history of York during this award-winning, immersive guided tour of the city. Pass by top attractions—such as the Shambles and Jorvik Viking Centre—as you listen to your guide tell tales of witches, queens, and murderers that you wouldn’t hear on most other tours.

See a spookier side to York without the worry of getting lost during this guided ghost walk around the streets and snickelways (alleys) of the medieval city. Listen to your guide tell tales of York’s tragic past that you wouldn’t otherwise hear, ask questions along the way to learn more, and enjoy an atypical introduction to the city.

Take the helm of your own boat and explore the river that brought the Vikings to the beautiful City of York by hiring a self-drive boat. They are fantastic fun, safe and easy to drive. Suitable for up to 6 passengers.

Uncover the medieval marvels of historic York on a bespoke walking tour with a private guide. Learn about York’s rich history as you walk around the centuries-old walls, pose for photos with a backdrop of the city or visit the wall museums (not included). Your private tour is yours to customize as you please, so you could also pay a visit to York Castle, stroll down the atmospheric The Shambles or take a peek inside the magnificent York Minster.

Go on a tasting tour of York—and venture behind-the-scenes at the city’s top breweries—on this lively, small-group tour. Following pickup from a central meeting point, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus to three local breweries. At each stop, meet the brewers, learn more about how beer is made, and enjoy a variety of brews at each stop. Snacks and bottled water are also provided.

The tour is back for 2021! It is especially aimed at those who are looking to have an enjoyable, entertaining walking tour combined with a focus on capturing the magic of the beautiful city of York for your memories & social media posts. The tour lasts 3 hours and takes you off the beaten track into areas that visitors often miss. You will learn some history and experience some wonderful sights and you will make a connection with the city that will stay with you. I believe in creating intimate experiences & moments that stay with you. The maximum group size I normally work with is limited to 10. However, in line with Government guidelines this is reduced to 5 for now. Small groups mean everyone stays involved & engaged & you can ask as many questions as you like. It also means there is always someone to help you to create your images with tips on how to capture the perfect shot or to take shots of you against some stunning backdrops that will get plenty of reaction on social media.

This is a great pick for travelers interested in discovering some of the best independent eateries in York. Save time scrolling through restaurant reviews, and learn about the local food scene from a guide instead. The tour visits five independent food venues for tastings and passes by famous landmarks such as the York Minster along the way.

Tours in a Dish will take you deep into the heart of York's culinary scene on the Hidden Gems Foodie Tour. From locally sourced produce to food from distant lands, you are sure to find it a perfect experience to satisfy your appetite for unique, delicious and authentic adventures.

With rich Roman and Viking history, and beautiful architecture, York is widely considered among England’s must-see cities—but exploring independently means you may miss its hidden secrets. On this tour, follow your private guide through historic York and find out what makes the city special. Explore top attractions like Clifford's Tower, the Jorvik Viking Centre, the Roman walls, and St Mary’s Abbey, and enjoy sweeping views along the River Ouse.

If you want to know where all the cool stuff to look at in York is, no fuss, easy, then this App is made for you. Travel isn't A to B it's all the colourful bits in between, the nooks and crannies, the secrets. This limited guide puts you in the driving seat, you open our map and see what you want to see ultra easy and with a 48 hour window an absolute bargain. Gunpowder York Witch - She was hanged alongside two men on Monday 20 March 1809. After her execution, her body was put on public display in Leeds and strips of her skin were tanned into leather and sold as magic charms to ward off evil spirits. Dick Turpin - Highwayman. A Plague House - With the ghost of a child peering out the window. (By appointment only) Alleyways that lead to magical views If you want an easy, stress free, meander through the city with our map to guide and look too whenever, then you my friend are a true traveler. “Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.” John Lennon.