York Dungeon Printable Guide

York Dungeon Visitor Guide

Overview

The York Dungeon is a thrilling, interactive experience that takes you on a journey through 2,000 years of the city's murky past. With live actors, theatrical storytelling, special effects, and realistic sets, it’s a blend of history, horror, and humor that offers a unique way to learn about the darker side of York's history.

Location and Contact Information

• Address: 12 Clifford Street, York, YO1 9RD, United Kingdom

• Phone: +44 1904 632599

• Website: York Dungeon

Opening Hours

The York Dungeon's opening hours may vary throughout the year, but typically it operates:

• Monday to Friday: 10:30 am - 4:00 pm

• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Note: Always check their website or call ahead for up-to-date hours, as they may change for special events or holidays.

How to Get There

• By Train: York Train Station is about a 10-minute walk from the Dungeon.

• By Bus: Several local buses stop nearby, including services that drop off at Clifford Street.

• By Car: There is no on-site parking, but nearby parking facilities include the Castle Car Park and St. George’s Field Car Park.

Ticket Information

• Standard Tickets: These can be purchased online or at the door. It's recommended to buy in advance for guaranteed entry and to save money.

• Combination Tickets: You can often save money by purchasing combination tickets with other attractions, such as the York Pass.

• Prices:

  • Adults (16+): Usually around £15-£20 online

  • Children (5-15): Usually around £10-£15 online

  • Family tickets and discounts for students, seniors, and groups are also available.

Note: Children under 5 years old are not allowed due to the potentially frightening nature of the attraction.

The Experience: What to Expect

The experience is designed to be interactive, with visitors taken through different themed rooms, each representing a dark period in York's history. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Viking Invasion: Step into York's Viking history and witness a terrifying encounter with an ancient Viking warrior.

2. The Torturer: Learn about the gruesome methods of medieval torture as the Dungeon’s Torturer shows you some "instruments of pain" with a dark sense of humor.

3. The Plague Doctor: Experience the horror of the Bubonic Plague and meet the Plague Doctor, who will explain the grim reality of the epidemic in the 14th century.

4. The Great Fire of York: Discover the story behind the fire that devastated the city in 1190 and meet characters who lived through it.

5. The Courtroom: Be prepared to be put on trial! You might find yourself accused of outrageous crimes in a historic courtroom.

6. The Witch Hunt: Join the Witch Pricker and face the terror of being accused of witchcraft. This section recreates the fear and superstition of the time.

7. Guy Fawkes: Learn about York's most infamous traitor, Guy Fawkes, and his role in the Gunpowder Plot.

The entire experience lasts about 75 minutes and is designed for small groups, making it an intimate and engaging adventure.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair Access: York Dungeon is fully wheelchair accessible. However, only one wheelchair user is allowed in the Dungeon at any given time, so it's advised to pre-book.

• Assistance Dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome but may find the experience unsettling due to loud noises and dark spaces.

• Visual and Audio Effects: The Dungeon features strobe lighting, fog effects, sudden loud noises, and darkness, which might not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.

Tips for a Great Visit

1. Arrive Early: The York Dungeon can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early ensures a smoother experience.

2. Pre-book Tickets: Pre-booking online not only saves money but also helps you avoid long queues.

3. Suitable Age: The Dungeon is best suited for children aged 8 and above due to the spooky content and intensity.

4. Prepare for a Scare: This is not your average historical tour! Expect jump scares, dark humor, and engaging performances.

5. Dress Comfortably: The experience involves standing, walking, and moving through dark, narrow spaces. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Gift Shop and Souvenirs

At the end of the tour, you’ll exit through the Dungeon’s gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs such as themed t-shirts, mugs, keychains, and more.

Special Events and Seasonal Shows

The York Dungeon often hosts special events, especially during Halloween, Christmas, and other holidays. These limited-time shows offer unique twists on the usual experience, adding to the thrill.

Is the York Dungeon for You?

• Perfect for: History enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, families with older children, and anyone who enjoys theatrical storytelling.

• Not recommended for: Young children, those with a nervous disposition, or people with certain health conditions that could be aggravated by the special effects used.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I take photos inside the Dungeon?

  • No, photography and videography are not allowed during the tour to maintain the atmosphere and prevent disruption.

• Is there a cloakroom?

  • No cloakroom facilities are available, so travel light if possible.

• Is there a café or refreshments?

  • There are no dining facilities in the Dungeon itself, but plenty of cafes and restaurants are nearby.

Enjoy your visit to the York Dungeon! It’s an unforgettable, spine-chilling journey through history that will leave you both entertained and a little bit spooked.