Skip to content 
Family-Friendly Tours, Magic & Entertainment, Children’s Activities
Wizard Walk of York | Award ‑ Winning Family Walking Tour on York’s Historic Shambles
Family-friendly magic tours, kids’ activities, wand kits, birthday events, school groups & accessible fun.
- Shambles, York YO1 8BL
- Mon-Sat -09:00-06:00
- 5.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆(460+)
Welcome to the Wizard Walk of York
Nestled in the heart of York’s world‑famous medieval Shambles, the Wizard Walk of York is not just another tourist attraction – it’s an experience that has captured the hearts of families from across the globe. Founded by husband‑and‑wife duo Dan and Bev Wood, this is York’s ONLY walking tour created especially for families with children.
Led by the charismatic wizard guides Phoenix the Red or Viridian the Green, the tour is a wonderfully whimsical “wand‑er” through the city’s enchanting streets, alleys, and snickelways. Packed with jaw‑dropping magic tricks, groan‑worthy dad jokes, prop comedy, slapstick, storytelling, and even origami, it offers a spellbinding alternative to York’s many ghost walks – no spooky ghosts, no scary stories – just FUN over frights.
In 2025, the Wizard Walk of York was named #1 Best Family Attraction in the World in the TripAdvisor Best of the Best Awards, topping a list based on feedback from more than eight million attractions. It has also won Best Tour for four consecutive years (2023–2026) at the Little Vikings Awards for Kids, Experience of the Year (2025 and 2026) at the Visit York Awards, and Independent Business of the Year 2026.
What They Sell & Services
What to Expect – A Truly Magical Experience
The Magic
Throughout the 75 minute walk, the Wizard performs a series of clever magical tricks – from magical jelly beans and surprising object reveals to misbehaving wands and mischievous props. But what sets it apart is how he involves the children in the magic. Kids join the fun with their own wands, repeat silly incantations, and become mini apprentice wizards for the tour.
The Comedy
Health & Safety
- Full Public Liability Insurance
- Risk assessment provided
- Children must remain behind the guide
- Allergy checks for chocolate frogs
No smoking policy - Covid-safe guidelines followed
The Route
The tour leads you through some of York’s most spellbinding sights, including:
- The iconic Shambles (Europe’s most picturesque street)
- Whip‑Ma‑Whop‑Ma Gate (the oldest street name in York)
- Mad Alice Lane
- York Minster(adorned with gargoyles, grotesques and peculiar creatures)
- William’s College
- Bedern Hall and the backstreets of Bedern
- Saint Andrewgate
Prices & Tickets
Ticket Type | Price (approx.) |
Adults | £11–£13 |
Children (ages 3+) | £11–£13 |
Under 3s | Free (but still need a ticket for group size) |
Opening Times & Availability
The Wizard Walk runs most days, with additional times during school holidays and weekends. Booking ahead is essential – tours can get booked up quickly during busy periods like half‑term and summer holidays.
Day | Typical Availability |
Monday – Sunday | Selected times (usually late morning and early afternoon) |
School Holidays | Additional tour times added |
Exact times vary by season. Check the official website for up‑to‑date schedules.
What Our Customers Say
We’re proud to have earned a 4.9/5 rating from over 900 reviews on Viator and 5.0/5 from over 428 Google reviews. Here’s what families are saying:
“Good fun and entertaining, well planned, funny for adults and kids, the Wizard managed the group/crowds really well, my eight year old granddaughter loved it!”
— Diane_S, Viator (★★★★★)
“Absolutely brilliant walk. Very entertaining and funny for both the adults and children. Kids loved it and it was their favourite part of the trip!”
— Melissa_D, Viator (★★★★★)
“My children were so excited and engaged. A unique, special and fun way to spend an evening in the beautiful city of York!”
— York Mumbler
“We went on the Wizard Walk of York today and had a fantastic time. The Wizard was absolutely brilliant — full of humour, quick wit, and clever tricks that kept both the children and adults thoroughly entertained.”
— Anonymous, Google (★★★★★)
“My 6 year old found it hilarious and was talking about it for the rest of the day and reciting the jokes. His mum and I also really enjoyed it. A genuinely funny and entertaining walk with good magic.”
— lindastuart, TripAdvisor (★★★★★)
“I will come back to York only to do this tour again – absolutely magical. Thank you for the wonderful experience, you are doing amazing work!”
— Recent reviewer
FAQs
Is the Wizard Walk suitable for Harry Potter fans?
What age is the tour best for?
How long does the tour last?
Can I buy a wand on the day?
Is there parking nearby?
More Stories for You
Traditional barber shop on Lemon Street, Truro. Men’s haircuts, skin fades, beard trims, hot towel shaves & children’s cuts. Walk‑ins welcome. Open 7 days. Book online.
Blend 71 is a small, independent cafe at 71 Lemon Street, Truro. We serve freshly made ciabatta sandwiches (including the famous Festive Chicken Club), Monmouth coffee, homemade cakes, and breakfast options. Open weekdays only. Takeaway available. Dog friendly.
Discover Kernow Churros in Truro, serving vegan churros, hot doughnuts, and delicious toppings at Truro Farmers’ Market on Lemon Quay.
Subscribe My Newsletter
Make sure you’re always up to date with fresh content.
Every new post will reach you without delay.
