Gods and monsters to send shivers down the spine – The Dark Saga Tours at JORVIK Viking Centre

For two nights only, JORVIK’s resident Skald – a Viking storyteller – will guide visitors around the recreated streets of Viking-age York, with regular stops to hear some of the stories that would have kept even the bravest Viking warriors awake at night.  Gods, curses, dark magic and even the undead feature in an abridged version of traditional Icelandic sagas written especially for the evening.

“By day, Viking-age Coppergate is a noisy, bustling place where everyone feels welcome, but when the lights dim and the background noise makes way for unsettling silence, this is the perfect setting for our Skald to share the Viking version of campfire urban legends,” explains Mark Jackson, interim head of operations for the popular attraction.  “Walking around the streets and houses is a treat at any time of year, but as it is Halloween, our Skald has a few tricks up the sleeve of his tunic to set the pulses racing of even the hardiest of souls.  Vikings knew very well how to instil fear…”

Many of the stories are set in a Viking settlement not dissimilar to 9^th century Jorvik, so the houses and backyards, combined with the smells of tallow, burnt wood and rotting flesh, create the ultimate immersive setting for these tales. 

“Unlike other Halloween tours, we can promise clement weather as our tours all take place indoors, beneath the pavement of modern Coppergate – but that won’t stop chills running up and down your spine,” adds Mark.

Each tour lasts around an hour, with intrepid visitors taken around in small groups.  The event is open to people aged 16 and over (it is unsuitable for children), with tickets priced at £25 per person.  Tours leave at 30 minute intervals between 7.00pm and 9.00pm on Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 October.  Booking is essential as demand is expected to be high.  Please visit jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk to book tickets.