York’s much-loved ghosts will gather in York Museum Gardens once again this November, and Ghosts After Dark promises to be bigger, spookier and more atmospheric than ever.

Taking place from Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th November 2026, the event will bring all 70 sculptures from York BID’s Ghosts in the Gardens trail together in one spectacular setting. It’s a rare opportunity to explore the gardens after dark and see York’s famous ghosts illuminated among the trees, ruins and hidden corners. We went last year with our kids and loved it.

Bigger for 2026

This year, there will be 70 ghosts to discover, along with an expanded route, six live storytellers, atmospheric lighting, fog and plenty of surprises hiding in the darkness. The experience will also extend beyond the main Museum Gardens and into several fascinating historic spaces nearby, including King’s Manor courtyard and Library Lawn. Visitors will follow a route that takes in the Anglian Tower, Edible Wood, Artists’ Garden, St Olave’s Churchyard and the area beside York Art Gallery. It’s a fun way to explore York’s lesser known corners when the sun goes down.

Live storytelling and a market

Six spooktacular storytellers will be waiting along the route to bring York’s ghostly tales and haunting history to life – one of the highlights of the event. There will also be a new interactive experience for 2026, as well as the first Ghosts After Dark night market! Visitors can browse the stalls before or after exploring the trail, making it easy to turn your visit into a full autumn evening in York. If there’s one thing we know, it’s that kids find it really exciting to be outside when it’s dark, and this is the perfect excuse to push back bedtime and have a lovely evening in York together.

Is Ghosts After Dark suitable for families?

Ghosts After Dark is an atmospheric evening event, but children are welcome and tickets cost just £2. The storytelling isn’t compulsory, so you can always skip the terrible tales if they aren’t keen. The experience should take approximately 90 minutes to complete. Timed admission must be booked in advance, with entry slots available until 8pm each evening.

Ghosts After Dark 2026 – Essential info

📅 Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th November 2026
🕠 5.30pm to 9.30pm each evening
🎟️ Timed entry slots are available until 8pm
📍 York Museum Gardens and surrounding historic spaces
💷 Adults £10, children £2
🚨 Tickets on sale: Tuesday 25th August 2026

Find out more and book through the York BID website.