York Dungeon: Get ready for the fright of your life!
York Dungeon: Get ready for the fright of your life!
Do you dare to go down to the York dungeons?
To really understand all of York’s fascinating and bloody history, you have to take a trip to the dungeons in York, one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Using interactive exhibitions, realistic re-enactments and scary props, the York Dungeon shows you what life was like hundreds of years ago, complete with Vikings, serial killers and ghosts. The whole experience lasts for 75 minutes with ten live shows recreating some of the most gruesome periods in history. See York’s stories come to life right in front of your eyes… If you dare!
The Vengeance of the Vikings
The brand new show for 2016 takes you through the history of the Vikings and details the 866AD Viking invasion of the ancient city of Eoforwic and the barbaric methods used by Ivar the Boneless. You’ll also meet the infamous Snore Short Sword, a fearless Viking Warrior who’s unfortunately not the brightest tool in the shed. However, what he lacks in brains he makes up for in brawn – he’ll introduce you to some of the most hair-raising tortures: viper pits, whipping and the gruesome blood eagle execution.
The Plague Doctor
Fast forward a few years and you’ll find yourself in 1551, where the deadly Bubonic Plague has spread through Europe and come to York. Make an appointment then step into the doctor’s office where you’ll literally see, smell and feel the effects of the plague. It’s a graphic depiction of the death and illness that swept the country. Come face to face with leeches and see gory operations performed on members of the audience by the doctor’s assistant. You’ll need a strong stomach for this one!
The Golden Fleece
This show is all about the ghosts of York. The Golden Fleece is a real life pub in York that’s as famous as the most haunted place in town. Here, meet the landlord who’ll recount the intriguing story of the two Williams. You might even see (or feel) the presence of a ghoulish guest. Guaranteed to make your hairs stand up on end!
Guy Fawkes
This show is dedicated to York local Guy Fawkes, Britain’s most notorious traitor. Learn all about the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 and find out what happened to Fawkes after he was caught. There’s also a mirrored labyrinth which you’ll need to find your way out of to continue…
The Torturer
One of the more disturbing parts of the York Dungeon is the Torturer, where you find out all about the horrific methods used to torture criminals, traitors and heretics. Whether you’re innocent or guilty, the Torturer has some rather special (and painful) ways of making you confess – discover the Choppy Chopper, the Tongue Tearer and the Torture Chair. You yourself may even be singled out for witchcraft by the vindictive Witch Pricker and see convicted witch Isabella Billington waiting to be burnt alive at the stake. You’ll also find out first-hand about the 15th century executions and watch an all-too realistic beheading by the early Halifax Gibbet decapitating machine.
Meet the Judge
Be transported to the courthouse and watch a fascinating trial where anyone can find themselves charged with a felony, whether it’s for treason or dancing naked in the dark! Boo your favourite criminals and watch them head to their execution. The York Dungeon is located right next to the current York Crown Court, which was once the 18th century courthouse. The actors are dressed in real costumes from the time so you’ll really feel like you’re living in the moment. Here’s hoping you’re not guilty as charged!
