Your York BID 
Ghosts After Dark
4th - 8th November 2026
Your York BID
Ghosts After Dark
4th - 8th November 2026
Experience Ghosts in the Gardens like never before!
Ghosts After Dark returns bigger than ever, with 70 unique ghostly sculptures inspired by York’s rich history lurking throughout York Museum Gardens, King’s Manor Courtyard, and Library Lawn. Meet York’s finest storytellers as they bring the city’s legendary ghosts to life, against an atmospheric background of smoke and sound.
Ghosts After Dark is brought to you by York BID and York Museums Trust.
New for 2026
Ghosts After Dark is back and bigger than ever before
With 25 new ghosts joining the trail, there are now 70 ghostly figures to discover.
For the first time, visitors can step inside the King's Manor courtyard and Library Lawn after dark.
Don't miss the exclusive Night Market, with stalls from York Ghost Merchants, JORVIK Viking Centre, The Potions Cauldron, The Poetry Pharmacy, Socktopus and Braithwaite Gallery.
Brave The Cell and encounter the accused witch in a chilling immersive experience.
Look out for an interactive artwork by artist Lou Chapelle, bringing more light and atmosphere to the night.
Meet our storytellers
Step into the heart of Viking-occupied Jorvik where Norse storytellers share legendary sagas of fearless warriors, mighty gods, and epic voyages.
Uncover the haunted history behind the Stone Mason, Saxon Monk and Nun, and Butcher with Dr Dorian Deathly of the Deathly Dark Tours.
Visit Mad Alice of the Bloody Tour of York to learn the gruesome truth behind the Executioner, Judge, Tudor Lady and Saxon Monk.
Meet The York Dungeon’s Guy Fawkes and learn about his ill-fated past.
The Wild Man of the Woods
Discover York’s wild past as the Wild Man of the Woods explores the lore behind the Falcon, Fox, Cat, and Bear.
Step into the Undercroft and discover the plague-infested streets of 1551 York.
Why York Museum Gardens?
Ghosts After Dark returns to one of York’s most atmospheric and historic locations. York Museum Gardens is where Ghosts in the Gardens first began five years ago, making it the perfect place to continue the story.
For the first time, customers can explore King’s Manor and Library Lawn after dark, home to some of York’s most significant Roman and medieval remains. With centuries of history around every corner, these iconic locations provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable after dark adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ghosts After Dark 2024 visitors said
"Absolutely brilliant event. The ghosts were great but the icing on the cake was the talks going on as well. It felt very interactive and great value for money." - Mary
"As a wheelchair user I was impressed at the overall accessibility of the gardens and ability to see almost all of the ghosts... I really enjoyed the experience and actually came twice as it was so good." - Chloe
"This event was excellent, the graveyard was my favourite part. I was impressed with how suitable it was for all age groups. I told all my friends about how good it was and I will definitely return next year it it's on." -Victoria
"Great experience and excellent use of the gardens at night. A peaceful stroll encompassing wonderful art, talking points, educational value, and sensory feedback. Different to anything York has done before. Well organised. Look forward to future events." - Stacey
"It really was an amazing experience! All of the staff were really friendly and the atmosphere was perfectly spooky!" - Lizzie
"This was an excellent event and something really different. The ghosts were superb and it was great to enjoy the museum gardens after dark." - Carol
"Four of us came to the event and had the best time, the statues were as amazing as ever however seeing them in the dark with all the effects was stunning. The story tellers were a fantastic addition to the evening and we loved listening to them all. Such a well thought out, impressive and fun evening! Please do it again next year!!" - Laura
"This was one of the best events I've been to in a long time, I have already been spreading the word. The story tellers were fantastic, and the atmosphere was absolutely spot on. The lighting, and candles were great. Thank you for all the efforts and hard work. You nailed it." - Sam
"We had such a fantastic time at Ghosts After Dark! ... The storytelling areas were a real highlight; the tales were gripping and kept both the kids and adults completely captivated. It was a perfect spooky evening, and the kids haven’t stopped talking about it since!" - Anna
Working together to keep York safe
York BID take your security seriously. We have security measures you can see and, of course, ones you can’t. We ask you to help by staying alert and trusting your instincts. Our friendly Marshals are always on hand to assist you – if something doesn’t feel right, tell them straight away, and they will do the rest. In an emergency, call 999. Let’s keep each other safe.
