Looking for something spooky to do with the kids in York this October half term? Barley Hall is recruiting trainee ghost hunters to help track down the spirits hiding in its medieval rooms. And once the kids are tucked up in bed, there’s an adults-only evening of ghost stories too. Quick, book a babysitter!
Haunted Hall: A ghost hunt for families
From 24th to 31st October 2026, children aged six and over can explore Barley Hall as trainee ghost hunters. The story is that spirits from more than 2,000 years of York’s history are on the loose, and the paranormal investigators need some help finding them. Each session lasts around 45 minutes. It’s a fun way to explore one of York’s historic buildings during half term, especially if your children enjoy a spooky story.
Haunted Hall at a glance
- – When: 24th to 31st October 2026, with bookable slots between 10am and 3.30pm
- – Where: Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR
- – Age: 6+; children must be accompanied by an adult
- – Tickets: £15 per child and £5.50 per accompanying adult
- – Booking: Book Haunted Hall tickets
Dark Tales of Haunted Hall: An evening for grown-ups
Fancy a Halloween night out of your own? On 30th and 31st October, Edwyrdian Tales will bring ghostly encounters and local folklore to life inside Barley Hall. With stories set among the Hall’s medieval rooms and a bar available throughout, it’s a good excuse to have a grown-up night out and do something different.
Dark Tales at a glance
- – When: 30th and 31st October 2026, 7pm to 9pm
- – Where: Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR
- – Age: Adults only, 18+
- – Tickets: £20 per person
- – Booking: Book Dark Tales tickets
Barley Hall is a historic building with raised thresholds. A temporary ramp provides access to the Great Hall and Steward’s Room, but there are no accessible toilets on site. For accessibility questions, contact groups@yorkat.co.uk
