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A mini guide to
The Shambles and Stonegate: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Go early for the Shambles
The Shambles is narrow and feels crowded when busy. Early morning or late in the day usually leaves more space.
Follow the snickelways
Side passages such as Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate link the main streets. Wandering off the main routes shows more of the old street plan.
Look up
Many buildings on the Shambles and Stonegate lean out over the street, so the upper floors are worth a look.
Check attraction pages
Barley Hall and York's Chocolate Story are small attractions with their own opening arrangements. Check their websites before you plan a visit.
Eating
The lanes around Stonegate, Grape Lane and Swinegate are packed with places to eat. Busy times such as weekends are easier with a table booked.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is The Shambles and Stonegate?
The Shambles and Stonegate is in York, England. The Shambles, Stonegate and the narrow lanes of the old city centre. Nearby stops and stations include York station, Park & Ride.
How long do I need in The Shambles and Stonegate?
A couple of hours to half a day. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include The Shambles, Shambles Market, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: York station (LNER, Grand Central, TransPennine Express and others); Park & Ride (Six council sites). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 20 places to eat and drink in and around The Shambles and Stonegate, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 5 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is The Shambles and Stonegate accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in The Shambles and Stonegate
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Stonegate
Pedestrian street of shops and old buildings leading from St Helen's Square towards the Minster.
Coney Street
Pedestrian shopping street running parallel to the River Ouse.
The Shambles
Narrow medieval street of overhanging timber-framed buildings, once lined with butchers' shops.
York
More areas to explore
Castle, Fossgate and Walmgate
Clifford's Tower, the Castle Museum and the streets along the Foss
Open the mini guide →
Micklegate and Bishopthorpe Road
Micklegate Bar, the pubs of Micklegate and the shops of Bishopthorpe Road
Open the mini guide →
Station and Museum Gardens
The National Railway Museum, the station and the Museum Gardens
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- Pavement: habiloid, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Stonegate: Doug Olson, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Coney Street: Keith Laverack, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- The Shambles: Vincej at en.wikipedia, Public domain, source
- Castle, Fossgate and Walmgate: Steven Fruitsmaak, Public domain, source
- Micklegate and Bishopthorpe Road: Tim Green, CC BY 2.0, source
- Station and Museum Gardens: Tim Green from Bradford, CC BY 2.0, source
- Minster Quarter: Chris Gorringe, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring York