Exhibition Square, York: Historic Heart of Culture and Connectivity
Exhibition Square: York’s vibrant historic hub linking art, culture, and city exploration in the heart of the city.
Exhibition Square in York is a vibrant public space steeped in history and culture, located opposite Bootham Bar and adjacent to key landmarks like York Art Gallery and King's Manor. It serves as a bustling hub for visitors, hosting the start point for popular hop-on hop-off bus tours and offering scenic fountains and statues, including a tribute to local artist William Etty. Its central location makes it a gateway to York’s rich heritage and artistic treasures.
A brief summary to Exhibition Square
- York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the York Art Gallery located on the western side of the square to experience world-class art collections and ceramic exhibits.
- Use Exhibition Square as the starting point for the City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tours to explore York’s main attractions.
- Enjoy the fountains and the statue of William Etty for great photo opportunities and a moment of relaxation.
- Take advantage of nearby bus stops and park and ride services for easy and eco-friendly access to the square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Several bus stops are located directly outside Exhibition Square, serviced by frequent city buses connecting to York’s main train station and other key locations. Typical travel time from York Railway Station is 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 per journey.
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Park and Ride
York’s Park and Ride services offer convenient access to the city centre, with stops near Exhibition Square. Travel time from parking sites ranges from 15 to 25 minutes. Park and Ride tickets typically cost £3-£5 per person for a return trip.
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Walking
Exhibition Square is a 15-20 minute walk from York Railway Station via mostly flat, paved streets suitable for all mobility levels. The route passes through scenic parts of the city centre.
Exhibition Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Exhibition Square
A Central Meeting Place in Historic York
Exhibition Square is a prominent open space nestled in the heart of York, England. Positioned directly opposite Bootham Bar, one of the ancient gateways into the city, the square acts as a welcoming threshold into York’s historic core. It is bounded by King's Manor to the south, a building with deep academic and architectural significance, now housing York University's archaeological unit. The square itself is a lively public area, inviting locals and tourists alike to gather, relax, and soak in the atmosphere of this storied city.Artistic and Cultural Significance
The western side of Exhibition Square is dominated by the York Art Gallery, a cultural landmark that underwent a major £8 million transformation and reopened in 2015. The gallery showcases a remarkable collection of Italian Old Masters, contemporary commissions, and an extensive ceramic art collection, including the innovative Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA). Visitors to the square can admire the statue of William Etty, a celebrated local artist, alongside decorative fountains that contribute to the square’s aesthetic appeal.Gateway to York’s Attractions and Tours
Exhibition Square serves as the starting point for the City Sightseeing York hop-on hop-off bus tours, making it a strategic location for exploring the wider city. This convenient access point allows visitors to embark on guided tours that reveal York’s rich history, from its Roman roots to its medieval architecture. The square’s proximity to other attractions such as York Minster and the Shambles enhances its role as a central hub for cultural exploration.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The square exudes a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, blending historical charm with contemporary urban life. Its open layout and seating areas provide a comfortable space for rest and people-watching. The sound of water from the fountains and the sight of the historic buildings surrounding the square create a sensory experience that connects visitors to York’s past and present.Accessibility and Practical Information
Exhibition Square is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus stops located directly outside the York Art Gallery. The city’s park and ride services also facilitate convenient access for those arriving by car, helping to reduce traffic congestion in the city centre. The square’s flat terrain and central location make it suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.Community and Events
Throughout the year, Exhibition Square often hosts events and serves as a meeting point for various cultural activities in York. Its role as a public space extends beyond tourism, acting as a communal area where locals gather for markets, performances, and celebrations, thereby enriching the social fabric of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bootham Bar
0.0 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.1 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Anglian Tower
0.1 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
The Norman House
0.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.2 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
0.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Medieval Walls
0.3 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Sundial Column
0.4 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The York Cat Trail
0.4 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
York's Chocolate Story
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Bedern Hall
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Monk Bar
0.5 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
William Etty
0.0 km
A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
Association Of Voluntary Guides Meeting Place
0.0 km
Starting point for free, expert-led walking tours revealing York’s rich history and vibrant culture every day except Christmas.
York Art Gallery
0.0 km
Discover centuries of British art and vibrant contemporary exhibitions in York’s historic and beautifully restored art gallery.
Invisible Cities - Walking Tours York
0.0 km
Alternative walking tours of York led by local guides with lived experience of homelessness, blending history, personal stories, and social impact.
King's Manor - University of York
0.1 km
A historic Tudor and Stuart manor in York city centre, blending royal heritage with academic excellence since the 15th century.
York City Sightseeing
0.1 km
Discover York’s 2,000 years of history aboard an open-top bus with live guides, hop-on hop-off freedom, and multilingual commentary.
Petergate House
0.1 km
Explore Petergate House, a stunning historical landmark in York, where rich heritage meets architectural beauty, perfect for every tourist's journey.
York Theatre Royal
0.1 km
Discover York Theatre Royal, a historic gem blending medieval roots with Victorian Gothic and modernist design, alive with over 270 years of theatrical heritage.
Hole In The Wall
0.1 km
Experience the charm of Hole In The Wall in York, a historic pub offering local ales, traditional British dishes, and a warm atmosphere.
York Oratory
0.1 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of York’s Catholic community, rich in history, art, and enduring faith.
The Red House Antique Centre
0.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in York’s historic Red House, where over 60 dealers offer unique finds for every budget.
York Explore Library and Archive
0.1 km
York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.1 km
Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
Mountain Goat Tours - York
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
The Ghost Trail Of York
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted snickelways on a thrilling, family-friendly ghost walk beneath the gothic grandeur of York Minster.
Essential places to dine
Brew & Brownie
0.2 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.2 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.2 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
The Star Inn The City
0.2 km
Modern British dining with seasonal Yorkshire flavors in a historic riverside setting overlooking the River Ouse.
The Botanist York
0.2 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Côte York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.3 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Fat Hippo York
0.3 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British dining with modern flair in York’s historic St Helen’s Square, blending classic dishes, stylish ambiance, and theatrical desserts.
Forest
0.3 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Los Moros
0.3 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowhome
0.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
The Imaginarium
0.2 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.2 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.2 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
0.3 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
0.3 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Fairer World
0.3 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Paper Doll
0.3 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.4 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Pandora
0.4 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eagle & Child
0.1 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.2 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
0.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.4 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Revolution York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
The Maltings
0.4 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Vudu Lounge
0.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.4 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.5 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.0 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
34.8 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Key Club
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.0 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly