York , United Kingdom

York: Snickets and Stories city game

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Curious about the lesser-known stories of York? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favorite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator.
- Explore York during this interactive and fun discovery walk
- Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way
- Solve 12 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route
- See popular sights like St. Williams college and the Bootham Bar from a different angle and discover hidden local spots

This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.

Available options

York: Snickets and Stories city game

What's included

A link to the web app game (received via email). The game is played in the browser of your phone

Detailed itinerary

Learn about the art works of this 19th century painter

Find out what gave the name to this arch way

Stop 3

What is the Fairfax house? You'll learn it during this city game

a college with a history that dates back almost 400 years.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Mobile data

Available languages

Written guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Start at the York Art Gallery. When you arrive, click on the link you’ve received from Secret City Trails and start the self-guided discovery game. You can start and pause the trail anytime you want, and pick-up later to finish.

Important notes

- To play the trail, you click on the play link which you received by email from Secret City Trails
- If a trail is available in multiple languages, you will receive an English introduction mail, but you can select the language once you have started the game
- The play link is valid for 90 days starting at your activity date, so if you want to postpone your activity, you can do that without modifying your booking.
- Once you click on the play link, you can invite 4 other people to play along with you. - - Only the team captain can enter the answers.
- Once started, you have 15 days to finish the trail. So if you are tired or the weather changes, take a break and go ahead once ready to do so.
- We suggest playing the trails during daylight hours to make it easier to discover clues and directions, which often can be found in the details

About York

York is a historic city in northern England, known for its well-preserved Roman and Viking heritage. With its medieval walls, stunning Gothic cathedral, and charming cobbled streets, York offers a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.

Top Attractions

York Minster

York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years.

Historical 2-3 hours £14

The Shambles

The Shambles is a historic street in York that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe and is known for its narrow, cobbled lanes and overhanging timber-framed buildings.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free

York Castle Museum

The York Castle Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of York from the Victorian era to the present day. It is housed in a former prison and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays.

Museum 2-3 hours £15

Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum that brings the Viking Age to life through a range of interactive exhibits and displays. It is built on the site of a major Viking settlement and features a ride that takes visitors on a journey through Viking York.

Historical 1-2 hours £16.50

Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours £8.50

National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum is a museum that tells the story of Britain's railway history. It features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a collection of historic locomotives and carriages.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Yorkshire Pudding

A traditional British dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, which is baked until crispy and golden. It is often served with roast beef and gravy.

Main Course Contains gluten and eggs

Yorkshire Curry

A unique fusion of British and Indian cuisine, featuring a curry made with local ingredients such as Yorkshire lamb or pork.

Main Course May contain gluten, dairy, and nuts

Fat Rascal

A traditional Yorkshire scone made with currants, citrus peel, and spices. It is often served with clotted cream and jam.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs

Yorkshire Wontons

A modern twist on a traditional Chinese dish, featuring wontons filled with local ingredients such as Yorkshire cheese or pork.

Appetizer May contain gluten, dairy, and pork

Popular Activities

Hiking in the North York Moors Cycling along the River Ouse Kayaking on the River Ouse Spa treatments in Harrogate Picnicking in the Museum Gardens Strolling along the River Ouse Visiting York Minster Exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit York, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the weather is generally pleasant.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

York is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas
• Avoid isolated areas at night
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Leeds Bradford Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
Manchester Airport • 80 miles (129 km)

By train

York Railway Station

By bus

York Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in York is comprehensive, with frequent services to all parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The City Centre Bootham Micklegate The Groves Haxby

Day trips

Castle Howard

15 miles (24 km) • Half day

Castle Howard is a stunning stately home and gardens located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful architecture, extensive gardens, and fascinating history. The estate is home to a range of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a number of walking trails.

The North York Moors

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

The North York Moors is a beautiful national park located just outside of York. It is known for its stunning landscapes, extensive walking trails, and fascinating wildlife. The park is home to a range of attractions, including a number of historic sites, as well as a number of charming villages and towns.

Whitby

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

Whitby is a charming coastal town located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fascinating literary connections. The town is home to a range of attractions, including a number of museums, a historic abbey, and a number of charming shops and cafes.

Festivals

York Festival of Food and Drink • September York Christmas Market • December York Early Music Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit York Minster early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's historic streets and alleys, such as The Shambles and Stonegate, for a unique and charming experience
Take a guided tour of the city's medieval walls and underground chambers for a fascinating insight into its history
Visit the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history and see a range of interactive exhibits and displays
Attend a performance at the York Theatre Royal or the York Early Music Festival for a unique cultural experience