Days Out: York Dungeon

For a spine-tingling show that will leave you quaking in your boots, head to the York Dungeon '“ the Home of Halloween '“ this half term; where you'll come face to face with the infamous Wicked Women of York.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Oct 2016, 13:59 GMT
Updated 25th Oct 2016, 17:31 GMT

Visitors will be transported back to a cool, cloudy day in York’s Square, in 1649, where the Spring Assizes are underway and 21 criminals are awaiting their fate. Nostrils are filled with the revolting smell of fire and death and reports of witchcraft are rife.

Among the 21 criminals will be stranglers, poisoners, arsonists and child murderers, but none are as disturbed as 32-year-old Isabella Billington, from Pocklington – she crucified her mother and sacrificed a calf and a cockerel before being convicted and hung as a witch.

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Senses will be on fire as the horrible history that comes alive around you as you’re put to the test by the witches, torturer, courtroom judge and even the plague doctor you meet along the way.

You’ll also be immersed in a world-first bloody Viking battle in the brand new interactive show, Vengeance of the Vikings, where you’ll learn about the tortuous techniques used on Saxons, including public blood-eagling and a viper pit.

The attraction has been completely revamped thanks to a £1million investment following last year’s devastating December floods, and now boasts new scripts, sets and state of the art special effects.

FACTFILE

Prices: Various – check website for more details

Opening Times: Daily from 10am to 5.30pm, open until 9pm on October 31

Address: York Dungeon, 12 Clifford Street, York, YO1 9RD

Car Parking: Nearby pay and display

Website: thedungeons.com/york

Telephone: 0871 423 2260

More: yorkshire.com