Tap into your inner Sherlock, call on your accountant friend and brush up on your general York knowledge. This Race Across The World Experience will turn the medieval streets of Leeds’ neighbouring city into your very own game board. The beloved BBC show is brought to life, on a slightly smaller scale, so you can step into the shoes of frantic contestants who’ve graced the screen and see how you’d fare in the real thing.
In less than an hour’s journey from Leeds, you will find yourself adventuring through the city, solving mind-bending puzzles, gazing up at landmarks, managing your virtual budget and unlocking surprises to reach the checkpoints – ultimately striving to be the fastest to slap your hand on that glorious guestbook. Knowing York, you might even have your own ghostly encounter along the way.
18 May 2026 10:00 + more dates
What can I expect at The Race Across The World Experience in York?
The BBC’s hit show Race Across The World has left us all gripped – and occasionally groaning – as teams race through unknown territory with nothing but their wits and a small budget. This official live experience takes that much-loved concept and rolls with it, but with a few more local twists.
First off, this is strictly a foot race, so you won’t need to navigate public transport or splash out on taxis once you start. Second, it will take approximately two to three hours, so I’m afraid there’s no luxury hotel waiting for you at the finish line, but you can always pop into one of the centuries-old pubs for a celebratory pint and debrief. Third, you can race how you wish, so it can either be an easygoing, fun way to explore York or a high-stakes, adrenaline-charged battle to snatch victory from the hands of your friends in a rival team – up to you.
Along the way, you will encounter a series of escape room-reminiscent codes and puzzles which you will need to decipher before you can progress to the next step. These clues can also be the key to shortcuts and surprises, so be wise – or willing to sacrifice a few precious pennies from your virtual budget. There are three checkpoints in total, with a chance to stop at each for a breather, time to implement a new plan of action and a bevvie, if you fancy. If it helps, the experience also offers exclusive discounts at these venues.
Whether you are looking to climb the leaderboard as an elite urban explorer or simply want to discover some of the city’s most unique and secret spots, the Race Across The World Experience is an exciting day out that all ages can enjoy. Plus, it could even be a chance for any of you locals to show off your encyclopaedic knowledge of the city.
Race Across the World: The Experience York
18 May 2026 10:00 + more dates
