Little Peasants Walking Tour

The York Dungeon is running its Little Peasants walking tour from 24 to 31 October, a 60-minute family stroll through the city. It's designed as an alternative for those who might be too young or too scared for the main attraction inside the Dungeon, so it takes the same brand of humour and puts it out on the streets instead.

Leading the way are two characters: the Dungeon Jester, described as 'ever so bonkers & slightly sarcastic', and Smedley, 'our most ugliest & smelliest peasant'. They're the ones guiding you through the city, and the whole thing is interactive, so it's more of a shared experience than a lecture. Along the route, you'll pick up on York's history and its most infamous rogues, with Dick Turpin, Guy Fawkes, and Margaret Clitherow — the Pearl of York — all getting their moment. The stories they tell are a mix of toe-curling tales, ghostly landmarks, and historical facts, covering everything from Roman exploits and Viking invasions to the city's darker side of tragedy, horror, and hangings.

The tour starts at The York Dungeon on Clifford Street and winds its way across town to finish at York Minster. If you're not in a rush to head off, you've got the option to walk back to the Dungeon with the characters. It's recommended for children of all ages, provided they're happy to handle a 60-minute walk on their feet.

Tickets are £9.95 per adult and £7.95 per child, with under-3s going free. The tour runs from 24 to 31 October, so there's a good window to fit it in over the half-term break.