York Art Gallery: A Historic Hub of British and International Art
Discover centuries of British and international art in York’s beautifully restored gallery with world-class ceramics and vibrant exhibitions.
York Art Gallery, located in Exhibition Square, York, is a premier cultural destination housing over 1,000 paintings, 5,000 ceramics, and thousands of drawings and decorative objects spanning from the 14th century to contemporary art. The gallery features rotating exhibitions, the renowned Centre of Ceramic Art, and an outdoor Artist’s Garden, all set within a beautifully renovated historic building blending Victorian and modern design.
A brief summary to York Art Gallery
- Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EW, GB
- +441904687687
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan at least two hours to explore the permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, and the Centre of Ceramic Art.
- Visit the Artist’s Garden for a peaceful outdoor art experience with views of York’s historic city walls.
- Check the gallery’s website for current exhibitions and book timed tickets to avoid queues.
- Use the gallery’s accessible entrances and facilities if mobility assistance is needed; wheelchairs can be booked in advance.
- Enjoy refreshments at the onsite cafe, Sketch, featuring seasonal and locally sourced dishes.
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
Frequent local buses run from York city center to Exhibition Square, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Services operate daily with fares around £2-£4. Buses are wheelchair accessible but can be busy during peak hours.
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Walking
From York city center, the gallery is a 10-15 minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The route passes historic landmarks and is well signposted.
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Taxi
Taxis from York railway station to York Art Gallery take about 5-10 minutes, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are available 24/7 and can accommodate wheelchair users upon request.
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Train
York railway station is about 1.5 km from the gallery. From the station, you can take a taxi or a short bus ride. The station offers frequent connections to major UK cities.
York Art Gallery 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 York Art Gallery
A Legacy of Artistic Heritage in York
York Art Gallery stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural fabric, originally established to host the Yorkshire Fine Art and Industrial Exhibition of 1879. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major repository of British and international art, with collections that span more than six centuries. The gallery’s permanent collection includes over 1,000 paintings, 17,000 drawings, watercolours, and prints, alongside 3,000 decorative objects mainly from Yorkshire, China, and Korea. This extensive collection offers visitors a comprehensive journey through art history, from medieval masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works.Architectural Harmony and Modern Exhibition Spaces
The gallery’s architecture artfully combines its Victorian origins with modern renovations, creating light-filled exhibition spaces that enhance the viewing experience. The thoughtful design allows artworks to be displayed in optimal conditions, with spacious galleries that accommodate both permanent collections and dynamic temporary exhibitions. The mezzanine level houses the Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA), a world-class collection of British studio ceramics, celebrated for its depth and quality.Diverse Exhibitions and Engaging Visitor Experiences
York Art Gallery hosts a vibrant program of temporary exhibitions that change regularly, showcasing national and international artists and exploring diverse themes. Recent and upcoming exhibitions highlight everything from Yorkshire sculptor Harold Gosney’s mixed media works to contemporary explorations of light and sound. The gallery also offers The Studio, an interactive space encouraging creativity among visitors of all ages through workshops and hands-on activities.The Artist’s Garden and Outdoor Spaces
At the rear of the gallery lies the Artist’s Garden, an outdoor exhibition space within York Museum Gardens. This tranquil setting features sculptural installations and seasonal plantings, including the Edible Wood, blending art with nature. The garden provides a scenic and relaxing environment, complementing the indoor galleries and offering panoramic views of York’s historic city walls and landmarks.Accessibility, Amenities, and Visitor Services
The gallery prioritizes accessibility with wheelchair access, accessible toilets, and services for hearing-impaired visitors, including online video guides. Facilities include a cafe serving seasonal, locally sourced food, seating areas indoors and outdoors, and locker storage for small bags. The welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for families, solo visitors, and art enthusiasts alike.York Art Gallery’s Cultural Significance and Community Role
As a cultural cornerstone in York, the gallery actively engages with the community through events, life drawing sessions, and art wellbeing programs. Its commitment to preserving and promoting art heritage while fostering contemporary artistic expression makes it a vital institution for both locals and visitors. The gallery’s location in Exhibition Square places it at the heart of York’s historic center, making it a must-visit for those seeking a deep and enriching art experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bootham Bar
0.1 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)
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
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.
York's Chocolate Story
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Monk Bar
0.5 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
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.
York City Sightseeing
0.0 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.
Exhibition Square
0.0 km
A historic and vibrant cultural square in York, blending art, architecture, and community in the city’s heart.
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.
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.
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 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.
York Oratory
0.2 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of York’s Catholic community, rich in history, art, and enduring faith.
York Explore Library and Archive
0.2 km
York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
The Red House Antique Centre
0.2 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.
Yorkshire Museum
0.2 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
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.
The Star Inn The City
0.3 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.3 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
0.3 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.
Roots York
0.3 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
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.
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.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
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
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
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
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
0.3 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.3 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Fairer World
0.3 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
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.
Paper Doll
0.4 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
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.5 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)
1.6 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly