Haunted history awaits as York St John University’s King’s Manor hosts ghostly cultural trail

York St John University’s historic King’s Manor is set to become a haunting highlight as York’s much-loved Ghosts in the Gardens trail returns from Saturday 19 September to Sunday 1 November. More than 70 ghostly sculptures will appear in gardens, on balconies, along the city walls and in some of the city centre’s most unexpected corners. 

Now in its sixth year, Ghosts in the Gardens has grown into a much-loved part of York’s cultural calendar from York BID and this year’s trail is the biggest yet. Ten brand-new ghosts will join some familiar faces from York’s past. Made by local creatives Unconventional Design, the ethereal wire mesh sculptures offer a snapshot of history, bringing many of York’s fascinating people, creatures and stories back to life. 

For the first time, King's Manor will host some of the characters as part of the Ghosts in the Gardens trail, showcasing the surroundings of the University's newest teaching and events space. Built in the 15th century, King's Manor is one of York's most historically significant medieval buildings, located on Exhibition Square just a few hundred metres from York St John University's Lord Mayor's Walk campus. 

From Wednesday 4 to Sunday 8 November, King’s Manor will be one of the venues for 5 nights of the popular Ghosts After Dark evening event. This ticketed tour will  showcase all 70 ghosts in York Museum Gardens, the Library Lawn and King's Manor for atmospheric nights of storytelling, light, smoke and sound. 

Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School and Professor of Tourism Geographies said: 

“We are delighted to be working with York BID to invite residents and visitors to the grounds of King’s Manor as part of the Ghosts in the Gardens and Ghosts After Dark events. King’s Manor is steeped in history and provides the ideal backdrop for this unique celebration of York’s ghostly past.  

"This is a fantastic opportunity for people to explore a new historic part of the University that they may not usually have the chance to experience, while taking in the atmosphere of the beautiful grounds after dark." 

Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, added:  

“With more than 70 ghosts appearing across 32 locations, this is our biggest trail yet, and the addition of the University’s historic King’s Manor as a new venue makes it a real jewel in the crown of our Ghosts After Dark event. From gardens and balconies to the city walls and some of York’s most surprising corners, there will be plenty to discover." 

Ghosts in the Gardens is a free trail open to all. Ghosts After Dark is a ticketed event delivered by York BID and York Museums Trust. Find out more and book tickets via the York BID website.

Read about King's Manor.