St Lawrence Parish Church, York
A historic York church with a medieval tower and peaceful churchyard, blending centuries of worship in a quiet corner of the city.
St Lawrence Parish Church in York is a historic Church of England church whose original medieval building once stood on this site, now home to a Victorian-era church built in the 1880s. Only the old church’s striking tower remains as a standalone monument in a peaceful churchyard just outside York’s city walls. The site blends centuries of worship, architecture, and community life, offering a quiet retreat from the city bustle. Visitors can explore the church interior, admire the Norman-style tower, and wander among ancient gravestones in a green, leafy setting.
A brief summary to St Lawrence Parish Church, York
- New, Lawrence St, York, YO10 3WP, GB
- +441904632434
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the churchyard to see the old Norman tower and carved doorway; it’s the most distinctive surviving feature of the original medieval church.
- Check the church’s website or noticeboard for service times and any special events, concerts, or open days when the interior is accessible.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the city walls or through nearby Museum Gardens for a fuller sense of York’s historic layers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from York city centre
From York Minster, walk east along Goodramgate and then south on Lawrence Street; the church and its tower are clearly visible on the left after about 10–15 minutes on level, paved paths suitable for all visitors.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serve stops within a 5–10 minute walk of the church; check current timetables for services to stops near the city walls or the city centre, then follow signs or maps to Lawrence Street.
St Lawrence Parish Church, York location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St Lawrence Parish Church, York
A Place of Worship Through the Centuries
St Lawrence Parish Church stands on ground steeped in centuries of Christian worship. The original church here dates back to at least the 12th century, serving the local community for hundreds of years within York’s historic fabric. That medieval church was eventually demolished, but its most distinctive feature – a sturdy Norman tower with a carved doorway – was preserved and re-erected nearby as a standalone monument. Today’s church building is a Victorian creation, consecrated in the 1880s, reflecting the architectural tastes and religious life of 19th-century York. This layered history makes the site a quiet but powerful reminder of how faith, community, and the city itself have evolved over time.The Tower and Churchyard
The most striking feature for many visitors is the old church tower, now standing apart in the churchyard. Its Norman doorway, with carvings of foliage and grotesque faces, speaks of medieval craftsmanship and the symbolic threshold between the everyday world and sacred space. The tower once formed part of a larger medieval church, and its survival as a freestanding structure gives it a unique, almost sentinel-like presence among modern houses. The surrounding churchyard is a green oasis, dotted with old gravestones and mature trees, offering a peaceful place for quiet reflection or a brief pause during a walk through the city.Inside the Victorian Church
The current St Lawrence Parish Church is a fine example of Victorian ecclesiastical architecture, built to serve the spiritual needs of a growing parish in the late 19th century. Inside, the atmosphere is one of calm and order, with traditional church furnishings, stained glass, and a layout designed for worship and community gatherings. The interior reflects the values of its time – dignity, order, and a sense of continuity with the past – while remaining a living place of regular services, music, and local events. Visitors are often struck by the contrast between the ancient tower outside and the more recent, yet still historic, church building.A Quiet Corner of York
Located just outside the old city walls on Lawrence Street, St Lawrence Parish Church occupies a relatively quiet corner of York, away from the main tourist thoroughfares. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a more contemplative experience of the city’s heritage. The churchyard and tower are easily accessible on foot from the city centre, and the site fits well into a broader exploration of York’s many churches and historic buildings. Whether attending a service, admiring the architecture, or simply sitting quietly among the gravestones, visitors connect with a different, more intimate side of York’s long history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walmgate Bar
0.2 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
The Stonebow
0.8 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.9 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.
Parliament St
1.0 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The York Ghost Merchants
1.0 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
1.0 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
1.0 km
Discover York's haunted past with The Original Ghost Walk, a captivating evening tour that unveils chilling tales and captivating history.
Ouse Bridge
1.0 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
York City Walls
1.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
Bedern Hall
1.1 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Roman Bath
1.1 km
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
1.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
The York Cat Trail
1.1 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
1.1 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Rose & Crown
0.1 km
Traditional charm and hearty British fare just steps from York’s historic centre, with cozy rooms and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
York Barbican
0.4 km
York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
Fishergate Bar
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
Walmgate
0.5 km
Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
Dick Turpins grave
0.5 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
Red Tower
0.5 km
Explore York’s only brick medieval watchtower, now a vibrant community hub blending history, culture, and social spirit.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.5 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
St Denys's Church, York
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
York Castle Museum
0.6 km
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, where historic prison walls and a vibrant Victorian street bring York’s rich past vividly to life.
Brew York
0.6 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.8 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.8 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Tower Gardens
0.8 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Fairfax House
0.8 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.8 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Essential places to dine
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.6 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.
The Blue Barbakan
0.7 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
The Olive Tree
0.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Rustique Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Arras
0.9 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Pavement Vaults
0.9 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Ate O'Clock
0.9 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Corner Grill House
1.0 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Valhalla York
1.0 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Wine Stories
1.0 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Expressions
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Fenwick York
0.8 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.8 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Gift Gallery
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
1.0 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
1.0 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
York Souvenir's
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Sterling Souvenirs
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
1.1 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
1.1 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.8 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
The Fossgate Social
0.8 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.8 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
0.9 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.9 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
0.9 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.
Social 8 Lounge
0.9 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Plonkers
0.9 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.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.9 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
1.0 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Pivní York
1.0 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
1.1 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Tank & Paddle York
1.1 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Victor J's
1.1 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
1.1 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
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.2 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Kuda
0.9 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
1.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
1.2 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
1.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.3 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.3 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Club Salvation
1.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.3 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.5 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.0 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
35.3 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
35.3 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
35.5 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.5 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
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
- Business Friendly
