Peasholme Green: York’s Historic Market and Cultural Hub
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
Peasholme Green in York is a historic open space known for its rich medieval heritage, former markets, and notable buildings like the Black Swan pub. Once the site of the All Saints Church and a bustling wool and hay market, it remains a vibrant area blending history with local culture in the heart of York.
A brief summary to Peasholme Grn
- York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Black Swan pub to experience one of York’s oldest timber-framed buildings and enjoy its historic atmosphere.
- Explore the area’s medieval market history by noting the former sites of the wool and hay markets around Peasholme Green.
- Look for architectural details such as jettied upper floors and brick extensions that reveal the area’s layered development.
- Take time to appreciate the archaeological significance of the site, including discoveries beneath the Black Swan pub.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from York city center to stops near Peasholme Green; journeys typically last 10-15 minutes with frequent departures. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays and evenings.
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Walking
From York city center, a 15-20 minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets leads to Peasholme Green. The route is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi
Local taxis from central York to Peasholme Green take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5 to £10.
Peasholme Grn 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 Peasholme Grn
Origins and Medieval Significance
Peasholme Green traces its roots back to the medieval period, originally a water meadow used for growing peas, which gave the area its name. It was the site of the Church of All Saints, first mentioned in documents from the early 12th century. This church served the community until its closure by an act of Parliament in 1586, after which it was partially demolished and the site gradually transformed. The former churchyard became integrated into Peasholme Green, which evolved into a key commercial area within York, strategically positioned with good transport links via Layerthorpe.The Market Legacy and Urban Development
From the late 16th century, Peasholme Green became synonymous with fairs and markets, particularly the wool market established by the corporation in 1708. The wool was weighed here and tolls collected, making it a bustling trade hub well into the 19th century. The hay market was relocated to the former All Saints churchyard in 1827, further cementing Peasholme Green’s role as a focal point for commerce. Over time, the area developed a diverse built environment with multiple architectural styles reflecting its evolving functions.The Black Swan: A Historic Landmark
Among Peasholme Green’s most famous landmarks is the Black Swan pub, occupying a site with origins as a 15th-century merchant’s house built for William Bowes, a prominent York figure. The building evolved through the 16th and 17th centuries, retaining timber framing and distinctive architectural features like jettied upper floors and large fireplaces. The pub is steeped in local lore, including tales of an underground passage to St Cuthbert’s Church and ghost stories. It has hosted folk music events since the late 20th century and remains a cherished cultural venue.Architectural and Archaeological Insights
Peasholme Green showcases a blend of timber-framed medieval structures alongside brick extensions from later centuries. Archaeological work near the Black Swan has revealed layers of history beneath the surface, including remnants of earlier buildings and market-related structures. The area’s streetscape reflects York’s layered history, with nearby medieval churches, historic inns, and market buildings contributing to a rich urban tapestry.Peasholme Green in York’s Urban Fabric
Today, Peasholme Green sits within York’s Central Area of Archaeological Importance, surrounded by streets that echo the city’s Viking and medieval past. Its proximity to the city walls and former posterns underscores its strategic importance. The green remains a lively space, balancing its heritage with ongoing commercial and social activities, offering visitors a tangible connection to York’s historic marketplace and community life.Continuing Cultural Relevance
Beyond its historical significance, Peasholme Green continues to be a vibrant part of York’s cultural scene. The Black Swan pub hosts annual folk festivals and music clubs, maintaining traditions that link the past with present-day community engagement. The area’s blend of history, architecture, and local stories makes it a compelling destination for those interested in York’s rich heritage and living culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Stonebow
0.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
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.
Parliament St
0.5 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Roman Column
0.5 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.5 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.
Foss Fairy Trail
0.5 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.5 km
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 Mary's Church
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting St Mary's Church in York, a historic site blending medieval architecture and cultural heritage in a serene setting.
The Norman House
0.5 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Fairfax House
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Fairfax House, a premier Georgian mansion and museum in the heart of York.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.0 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
St Anthonys Garden
0.1 km
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
York
0.1 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
The Black Swan
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.2 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
York City Walls
0.2 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.2 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
Bedern Hall
0.3 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
The Golden Slipper
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
Monk Bar
0.3 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
Snickleway Inn
0.3 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.3 km
Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
GR8escape York
0.3 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.4 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
King's Sq
0.4 km
King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Essential places to dine
Arras
0.0 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Little Italy
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Bab Tooma York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Cosy Club
0.4 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.4 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Valhalla York
0.4 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Wildwood
0.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.4 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Forest
0.4 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Cleggs
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.3 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.3 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.4 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Barghest
0.4 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Take One Gifts
0.4 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Gift Gallery
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Pandora
0.4 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
The Medieval Scribe
0.4 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Expressions
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
0.3 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
The Hop York
0.4 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 Blue Bell
0.4 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Fossgate Social
0.4 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
0.4 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Pivní York
0.4 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.
Vudu Lounge
0.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.5 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.5 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Social 8 Lounge
0.5 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
0.5 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.
Evil Eye
0.5 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.6 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
