Parliament Street, York
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Parliament Street is York's premier shopping thoroughfare and historic marketplace, stretching from St Sampson's Square to the junction of Pavement and Coppergate in the heart of the medieval city. Originally a densely built area, it was transformed in the 1830s into a purpose-built market street lined with elegant four-storey Victorian buildings. Today, this largely pedestrianised street combines heritage architecture with contemporary retail, hosting high-street shops, local vendors, and seasonal festivals while serving as a gateway to iconic nearby attractions like The Shambles and York Minster.
A brief summary to Parliament St
- York, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Weekends and Saturday afternoons can become extremely busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—Parliament Street is best explored on foot, and you'll want to wander into nearby lanes and adjacent attractions like The Shambles and Shambles Market.
- Stop at the Visit York Visitor Information Centre at 21 Parliament Street for free maps, brochures, and local advice from tourism experts. They're open seven days a week.
- Browse market stalls for unique local crafts and souvenirs at budget-friendly prices—a great way to find authentic York gifts without premium retail markups.
- Check the street's event calendar for seasonal festivals and temporary markets that add extra vibrancy beyond the regular retail and permanent market vendors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from York Station
York Railway Station is approximately 820 metres (0.5 miles) south of Parliament Street. Walking takes 10–15 minutes through the city centre. Follow signs toward the city centre from the station exit, heading north through the medieval streets. No parking concerns as the station has its own facilities. Trains run regularly throughout the day from major UK cities including London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
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Local Bus Services
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre with stops near Parliament Street. Journey times from York suburbs typically range from 15–30 minutes depending on origin. Buses run throughout the day with reduced evening and Sunday services. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50 GBP. The city centre is well-served by local operators with frequent service during peak hours.
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Multi-Storey Car Parks
Direct parking on Parliament Street is extremely limited. The nearest multi-storey car parks are Fossgate Car Park and Shambles Car Park, both within 2–3 minutes' walk. Typical parking costs range from £1.50–£2.50 GBP per hour, with all-day rates around £8–£12 GBP. These facilities are well-signposted from main approach roads and offer reliable access year-round.
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Walking from York Minster
York Minster is approximately 5–10 minutes' walk north of Parliament Street through charming medieval streets. The route is entirely pedestrianised and well-marked. No elevation changes or difficult terrain. This walk provides an excellent introduction to York's historic core and passes numerous other attractions and cafés.
Parliament St location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Parliament St
A Street Born from Market Ambition
Parliament Street emerged from a practical need to solve urban congestion. By the early 19th century, York's existing markets at Pavement and St Sampson's Square had become hopelessly overcrowded, unable to accommodate the city's growing commercial activity. Rather than merely enlarging these cramped spaces, York's city corporation made an ambitious decision: to demolish the densely packed buildings that occupied the site and create an entirely new, broad thoroughfare that would serve as a unified marketplace. Beginning in February 1834, demolition commenced, and by 1840 the street had been fully laid out and developed. The Parliament Street Market officially opened in 1836, immediately becoming the city's principal marketplace, with Saturday established as the main market day. For over a century, it thrived as the commercial heart of York until 1955, when the market relocated to what is now Shambles Market.Victorian Architecture and Listed Heritage
The buildings that line Parliament Street represent a cohesive Victorian vision, mostly constructed as four-storey structures with shops occupying the ground floor and residential or office space above. Many of these buildings retain listed status, including the distinctive Barclays Bank building erected in 1901, and numerous numbered properties on both the west and east sides of the street. While some blocks have been entirely rebuilt to meet modern commercial needs, the street maintains a strong sense of architectural continuity and heritage character. The scale and uniformity of these buildings create a distinctive urban canyon effect, framing the street as a purposeful commercial space rather than an organic medieval alley.Transformation to Pedestrian Hub
The 1980s marked a pivotal modernisation of Parliament Street. A 1989 redesign competition led to the street being largely pedestrianised, with a single carriageway retained on one side to allow limited vehicle access. This transformation repositioned Parliament Street as a walkable, people-focused environment rather than a traffic-dominated thoroughfare. The pedestrianisation has proven successful in creating an inviting atmosphere for shoppers and visitors, allowing the street to reclaim its identity as a gathering place and marketplace.Contemporary Retail and Market Life
Today, Parliament Street hosts a diverse mix of high-street retail outlets, anchored by a substantial branch of Marks & Spencer alongside independent shops and market stalls. The street continues to function as a marketplace, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local crafts and souvenirs. Beyond shopping, Parliament Street serves as a venue for cultural events, temporary markets, and seasonal festivals, maintaining its historical role as a civic gathering space while adapting to contemporary urban life. The street's central location makes it a natural hub for both locals and visitors navigating York's historic core.Gateway to York's Medieval Quarter
Parliament Street's significance extends beyond its own boundaries. From its southern end, the street connects directly to some of York's most iconic attractions. Jubbergate leads eastward to Shambles Market, while the street itself opens onto Pavement and High Ousegate, providing easy access to The Shambles—York's most famous medieval street with its distinctive overhanging timber-framed buildings. York Minster, the city's magnificent cathedral, lies just a short walk away, as does the Jorvik Viking Centre. This strategic positioning makes Parliament Street an essential waypoint for anyone exploring York's medieval heritage and understanding the city's layered history from Roman times through the Victorian era.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament St
0.0 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
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.
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.
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
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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
0.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Norman House
0.3 km
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.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.4 km
Visit Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress in York, and experience England's rich heritage and stunning views from this iconic landmark.
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.
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 Bloody Tour of York
0.4 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.4 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.
York Minster
0.4 km
Discover the grandeur of York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral steeped in history and architectural brilliance, perfect for visitors seeking cultural immersion.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
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.
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.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.1 km
Your welcoming gateway to York’s history, culture, and attractions, offering expert advice, tickets, and unique local gifts.
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.
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.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
The York Vikings
0.1 km
Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
The Potions Cauldron
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
11 Shambles
0.1 km
Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
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.
Yorkshire Wheel
0.1 km
Experience York’s historic skyline from a unique panoramic Ferris wheel in the heart of the city’s vibrant St Sampson’s Square.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.1 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.
Roman Bath
0.1 km
Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
Essential places to dine
Wine Stories
0.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Ate O'Clock
0.1 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Pavement Vaults
0.1 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Valhalla York
0.1 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
0.1 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
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.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Wildwood
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Turtle Bay York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Lucia Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.2 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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.
Gift Gallery
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Take One Gifts
0.1 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.1 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
0.1 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
The Medieval Scribe
0.1 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.2 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Pandora
0.2 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Paper Doll
0.2 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
York Souvenir's
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Social 8 Lounge
0.1 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Pivní York
0.1 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.
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 Three Tuns
0.1 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.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.1 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.1 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
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.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.2 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.2 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.2 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.
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.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.2 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
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.
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
34.1 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.
PRYZM
35.1 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
