Ghosts After Dark
Ethereal Ghost Gathering & Live Story-Telling at Museum Gardens

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Posted on 21st August 2026

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Gathering York’s most iconic spectral residents in one breathtaking location, Ghosts After Dark returns from Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th November 2026. Delivered in partnership by York BID and York Museums Trust, this special five-night event brings together all 70 sculptures from the popular city-wide Ghosts in the Gardens trail for a grand, atmospheric finale.

Dramatically lit among ancient trees, ruined abbey walls, and hidden pathways, the wire mesh ghost figures are brought to life through dynamic lighting, rolling fog, and soundscapes. Visitors can wander through the darkened grounds, encounter live costumed storytellers sharing haunting tales of York's past, and explore a vibrant night market.

Bigger & Better for 2026 👻✨

Building on the success of its inaugural run, the 2026 experience expands far beyond previous years:

• All 70 Ghosts United: Every single wire mesh sculpture from the city-wide autumn trail will be gathered in one place for the first time.
• Expanded Historic Route: The walking trail now extends into new historic quarters, including the King’s Manor courtyard, Library Lawn, Anglian Tower, Edible Wood, Artists’ Garden, St Olave’s Churchyard, and the grounds beside York Art Gallery.
• Live Storytellers: Six costumed storytellers—supported by top local guides including Deathly Dark Tours, The Bloody Tour of York, and The York Dungeon—will share chilling local history along the path.
• Inaugural Night Market: Discover local food, hot drinks, and artisanal gifts at the event's brand-new night market.
• Interactive Installations: New lighting features, fog effects, and interactive art setups bring extra sparkle to the autumn dark.

Photo Gallery

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Plan Your Visit 📅

Essential details for booking and attending Ghosts After Dark 2026:

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Tickets & Admission

TIMED ENTRY - ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED

• Adults: £10
• Children: £2
Tickets go on sale Tuesday 25th August 2026 via theyorkbid.com.

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Dates & Opening Hours

Wednesday 4th – Sunday 8th November 2026
• Open 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM daily (timed admission slots available until 8:00 PM).
• Trail length: Allow approx. 90 minutes to complete.

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Night Market & Dining

Enjoy seasonal street food and hot drinks inside the grounds, or explore York’s fantastic city-centre restaurants and pubs before or after your slot.

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Accessibility

The majority of Museum Gardens features paved or compacted gravel paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

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Visitor Tip

Book an earlier entry slot to make an evening of it—over 70% of visitors combine their trip with dinner or drinks in historic York!

Getting There 🗺️

📍 Venue Entrance:

York Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7FR

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🚆 By Train

York Railway Station is less than a 10-minute flat walk across Lendal Bridge directly to the Museum Gardens entrance.

🚗 Driving & Parking

Nearby council car parks include Marygate Car Park (YO30 7DT) and Esplanade Car Park (YO1 6DX). York’s Park & Ride services run frequent evening routes into the city centre.