All Saints' Church, Pavement: A Medieval Beacon in the Heart of York
Discover York’s medieval gem with its iconic lantern tower, historic stained glass, and rich heritage at All Saints' Church, Pavement.
All Saints' Church, Pavement, located on High Ousegate in York, is a historic Anglican church with origins dating back to the 10th century. Rebuilt mainly in the 14th century, it features a distinctive octagonal lantern tower that once guided travelers. The church houses remarkable medieval stained glass, a 17th-century pulpit used by John Wesley, and memorial windows honoring the Royal Dragoon Guards. It stands as a vibrant link between York’s medieval past and present.
A brief summary to Parish of All Saints, Pavement
- High Ousegate, York, YO1 8RZ, GB
- +447388510894
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings to experience the beautiful sunlight through the stained glass windows.
- Take time to admire the 14th-century west window depicting the Passion and Resurrection of Christ.
- Look for the historic hexagonal oak pulpit used by John Wesley, a highlight of the church interior.
- Explore the surrounding Pavement area to appreciate York’s medieval market history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services to the city center, with stops near High Ousegate. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk on mostly flat urban terrain. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically between £2 and £4.
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Walking
If staying within York city center, walking to All Saints' Church is easy and pleasant, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your start point. The route follows paved streets and is wheelchair accessible.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in York and can reach the church within 5-15 minutes from most central locations. Typical fares range from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Parish of All Saints, Pavement
Ancient Roots and Architectural Evolution
All Saints' Church, Pavement, stands on a site with Christian worship dating back to the 10th century, possibly linked to a Norse Christian community. The present building was largely rebuilt in the 14th century on a rectangular plan, replacing earlier structures. Its octagonal lantern tower, added around 1400 and rebuilt in 1837, is one of the finest in England and historically served as a beacon to guide travelers through the surrounding wild lands. Over centuries, the church underwent several modifications, including the demolition of the original chancel in 1782 to accommodate York’s expanding market and restorations in the 19th century that preserved its medieval character.Stained Glass and Artistic Heritage
The church is renowned for its stained glass windows, notably the unique 14th-century west window depicting scenes from the Passion and Resurrection of Christ. This window was salvaged and reassembled from the nearby redundant St Saviour’s Church, reflecting the care taken to preserve York’s ecclesiastical art. Victorian stained glass by Charles Eamer Kempe adorns the central east window, while modern additions include memorial windows honoring the Royal Dragoon Guards and commemorating recent military service. These vibrant artworks fill the church interior with colored light, enhancing its spiritual and historical ambiance.Historical Significance and Memorials
All Saints' Pavement is the Guild Church of York and serves as the regimental church for the Royal Dragoon Guards, linking it closely to the city’s military heritage. Among its notable features is a finely crafted hexagonal oak pulpit dating from around 1634, famously used by John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. The church also preserves a pre-conquest Anglo-Danish child’s grave cover from the early 10th century, underscoring its long-standing historical significance. The church’s setting on Pavement, one of York’s oldest organized open spaces, situates it at the heart of the city’s medieval commercial and social life.Community Role and Worship Tradition
Today, All Saints' Church remains an active place of worship within the Church of England, offering services from the Book of Common Prayer. It continues to serve both the local community and ex-service associations in York, maintaining its role as a spiritual and cultural hub. The church’s location on a busy street reflects its enduring presence amid the evolving urban landscape, linking York’s rich past with its contemporary life.Architectural Features and Visitor Experience
Visitors to All Saints' Pavement can admire the church’s medieval stonework, restored pinnacles, and the striking lantern tower that dominates the skyline. Inside, the interplay of historic and modern stained glass, the ornate pulpit with its decorative sounding board, and the carved wooden pew shields offer a rich visual and historical experience. The church’s compact size and central location make it an accessible and rewarding stop for those exploring York’s heritage.Connection to York’s Historic Market District
Situated on Pavement, a street historically known as Marketshire, the church is surrounded by layers of York’s commercial history. Pavement was one of the city’s main market areas from Anglo-Scandinavian times, with archaeological finds revealing deep Roman and medieval deposits. The street’s name reflects its early paving, maintained for centuries to support market activities. All Saints' Church has witnessed these transformations, standing as a silent witness to York’s bustling medieval marketplace and civic life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament St
0.1 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
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Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
The York Ghost Merchants
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
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Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Ouse Bridge
0.2 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
The Stonebow
0.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Roman Column
0.4 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Bedern Hall
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Michael Le Belfrey
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Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Sundial Column
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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.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
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Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
St Anthonys Garden
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Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Skeldergate Bridge
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Discover the stunning Skeldergate Bridge in York, where modern design meets historic charm, offering breathtaking views of the River Ouse and city skyline.
Locked in Games York
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of escaping at Locked in Games York, a top-rated escape room center perfect for families, friends, and adventurers!
Unmissable attractions to see
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.1 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.1 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.1 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
St Mary's Church
0.1 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
28 Shambles
0.1 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.1 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Shambles and discover The Shop That Must Not Be Named, a magical Harry Potter emporium filled with wizarding wonders and immersive charm.
Shambles Market
0.1 km
Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
The Spurriergate Centre
0.1 km
A historic 12th-century church transformed into a vibrant community café and Christian centre in the heart of York.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.1 km
A modest yet powerful shrine in York’s Shambles honoring Saint Margaret Clitherow, the courageous Catholic martyr known as the Pearl of York.
The Potions Academy
0.1 km
Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
Shambles
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
Essential places to dine
Ate O'Clock
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Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Pavement Vaults
0.0 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Rustique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.2 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Corner Grill House
0.2 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Valhalla York
0.2 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
The Cut & Craft York
0.2 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - York
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.3 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Gift Gallery
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.1 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Fenwick York
0.2 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
York Souvenir's
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Take One Gifts
0.2 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.2 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
0.2 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Expressions
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Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Social 8 Lounge
0.0 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Three Tuns
0.0 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Golden Fleece York
0.1 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Blue Bell
0.1 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
0.1 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.1 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
The Fossgate Social
0.2 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pivní York
0.2 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Plonkers
0.2 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.2 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.3 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.
Popworld York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.0 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.4 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.
Disco Stu's
34.9 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 Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.9 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
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.
Wire
35.1 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
