The York Ghost Merchants — the world's only shop dedicated entirely to selling "ghosts," and the most enchanting must-visit destination on York's Shambles. Founded in 2019 by Angus McArthur and David Bloodworth at 6 The Shambles, the shop occupies a building originally constructed in 1780, with oak-panelled walls and antique display cabinets recreating the 18th-century Georgian style. Inside, candlelight flickers as over 600 handmade terracotta ghosts smile from the walls — each one completely unique in expression and texture. From the £9 Little Ghost to the limited edition Black Box collectibles, every ghost carries the thousand-year-old legend of York as "Europe's Most Haunted City" — locals believe they absorb bad luck and protect their owners. A half-day in-depth tour covers the flagship store, the ghost selection ritual, and treasure hunting at The Dispensary branch.
From the candlelit mystery window to the ritualistic dark red velvet box — step into York's most magical ghost world
Queue early at 6 The Shambles (arrive by 9:45am recommended), enter at 10am as the black-cloaked staff usher you into the candlelit 18th-century shop. Among over 600 handmade ghosts lining the walls, touch with your hands and feel with your heart to find the one that "calls to you" — each ghost has a unique expression and texture, cool to the touch like ceramic. Once chosen, place it on the mini stage on the wall for a keepsake photo, and the staff will carefully package it in a travel box printed with The Shambles shop illustration, lined with dark red velvet, with a peephole on the lid that reads "Boo!" If you dislike queuing, walk 5 minutes to The Dispensary branch in St Anthony's Garden, where you can browse 500 ghosts amidst birdsong and greenery — a quieter atmosphere with shorter waits.
A 3-minute walk from The Shambles, York's legendary century-old tearoom, world-famous for its three-tier silver stand of scones with clotted cream. Queen Elizabeth herself once enjoyed afternoon tea here. Average cost £18-£28.
A cosy traditional pub on The Shambles, serving signature Butterbeer with rich caramel flavour — perfectly matching the Harry Potter atmosphere. Just a 1-minute walk away. Average cost £10-£18.
A hidden York food treasure, a 5-minute walk from The Shambles. Signature Basque cheesecake with a dense, smooth texture — the classic "legendary" and "summer fruit" flavours are most popular. Around £6 per slice.
The birthplace of Guy Fawkes, planner of the Gunpowder Plot. Enjoy the signature steak and kidney pie with dark beer gravy in the stone cellar pub, steeped in historical gravitas. A 2-minute walk from The Shambles. Average cost £15-£25.