Monk Bar Model Shop
A family-run model shop in York since 1963, packed with trains, kits, diecast, slot cars, and jigsaws – a true Aladdin’s cave for hobbyists.
Tucked beside York’s historic Monk Bar gate, this family-run model shop has been a haven for hobbyists since 1963. Packed floor to ceiling, it offers an extensive range of model railways, plastic kits, diecast vehicles, slot cars, paints, tools, and jigsaws. Knowledgeable, friendly staff who are model makers themselves make it easy to find exactly what you need, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out. A true Aladdin’s cave for model enthusiasts, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves trains, planes, tanks, or detailed kit building.
A brief summary to Monk Bar Model Shop
- 2 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LQ, GB
- +441904659423
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit mid-week if possible; weekends can be busier, especially when York’s tourist numbers are high.
- Bring a list of specific parts or kits if you’re looking for something obscure – the staff are excellent at tracking down hard-to-find items.
- If you’re new to modelling, don’t hesitate to ask for advice; the staff are model makers themselves and happy to help beginners choose suitable kits and tools.
- Check the shop’s website before visiting if you’re travelling a long way; it gives a good sense of the range and also details their mail-order service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Monk Bar Model Shop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Monk Bar Model Shop
A Model Maker’s Aladdin’s Cave
Nestled beside the ancient Monk Bar gate in York’s city centre, Monk Bar Model Shop feels like stepping into a meticulously organized treasure trove. Since opening in 1963, this family-owned independent shop has grown into one of the region’s most respected destinations for model railway and kit-building enthusiasts. The compact, split-level space is densely packed with shelves and cabinets overflowing with everything from Hornby and OO/N gauge trains to Airfix-style plastic kits, diecast aircraft and military vehicles, slot cars, and scenic accessories. Whether you’re building a detailed diorama, expanding a railway layout, or simply browsing for inspiration, the sheer depth of stock rewards close inspection.What You’ll Find on the Shelves
Railway modellers are particularly well served, with a strong focus on OO and N gauge, plus a good selection of narrow gauge and accessories. Alongside the trains, there’s a wide range of plastic kits for aircraft, ships, tanks, and figures, plus paints, glues, tools, and weathering products. The shop also stocks a popular range of jigsaws from well-known brands, making it appealing even to those who enjoy puzzles as much as scale modelling. Diecast collectors will find cars, planes, and military vehicles, while slot car fans can pick up track sections, controllers, and replacement parts. The stock is curated to cater to both beginners and experienced hobbyists, with an emphasis on quality brands and hard-to-find items.Knowledgeable, Hands-On Staff
The shop’s reputation rests as much on its people as its products. The staff are genuine model makers and hobbyists themselves, which means they can offer practical, informed advice on everything from kit selection and painting techniques to track planning and electrical setups. They’re happy to help track down obscure parts or recommend suitable products for a specific project, but also respect the desire to browse at your own pace. This balance of expertise and unobtrusive service makes the shop welcoming whether you’re making a major purchase or just popping in to look around.A York Institution for Hobbyists
Occupying a historic building right next to the city walls, Monk Bar Model Shop has become a fixture on many visitors’ York itineraries, especially those with an interest in trains or detailed crafts. Its longevity and loyal customer base speak to its role as more than just a retail space – it’s a hub for the local and visiting modelling community. The shop also offers a comprehensive mail-order service, extending its reach beyond those who can visit in person, but there’s something special about seeing the shelves in person and chatting with the staff face to face.Planning Your Visit
The shop is open Monday to Saturday, with hours that suit both casual browsers and serious shoppers. It’s easy to combine a visit with a walk along York’s city walls or a stroll through the historic Goodramgate area. The compact size means you can see everything in a single visit, but the depth of stock often tempts people to linger, examining kits, comparing locomotives, or planning their next project. There’s no need to be an expert to enjoy the shop; even those with a passing interest in trains, planes, or detailed crafts will find something fascinating on the shelves.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sundial Column
0.1 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 Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.2 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
0.2 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
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Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
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.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
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.
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.
11 Shambles
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Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
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Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
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Experience the charm and history of Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, a unique treasure in the heart of York, England.
The Stonebow
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A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
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.
Bootham Bar
0.4 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.4 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that unveils the city's enchanting history and captivating tales.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Golden Slipper
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Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
City Wall Walk
0.1 km
Walk atop nearly 2,000 years of history on York’s most complete medieval city walls, offering panoramic views and timeless stories at every step.
York City Walls
0.1 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
York City Walls
0.1 km
Explore England’s longest medieval town walls, offering stunning panoramic views and a journey through York’s rich 2,000-year history.
The Bloody Tour of York
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York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
The Bloody Tour of York
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Discover York’s gruesome past on a 90-minute immersive walking tour with Mad Alice, blending history, ghosts, and humor in an award-winning experience.
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.1 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
Bedern Hall
0.1 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.1 km
Discover a historic townhouse behind York Minster, where lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and centuries of stories await.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.1 km
Explore the lavish historic townhouse and award-winning gardens behind York Minster, filled with antiques, art, and stories from centuries past.
Snickleway Inn
0.2 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
Minster Yard
0.2 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Chapter House
0.2 km
Medieval masterpiece where timber vaults defy gravity and Parliament once convened in octagonal splendor.
York Minster
0.2 km
Explore the awe-inspiring York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral, a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality.
York Minster
0.2 km
Explore York Minster, a breathtaking Gothic cathedral famed for its medieval stained glass, soaring architecture, and rich 1,000-year Christian heritage.
Essential places to dine
Little Italy
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Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
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Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
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.
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.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Côte York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Wildwood
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Guy Fawkes Inn
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Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Arras
0.3 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Los Moros
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Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
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.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.0 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cleggs
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Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Village Shop
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Discover York’s historic charm through unique antiques and vintage treasures at the welcoming Village Shop on Goodramgate.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 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
0.1 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
SOCTOPUS
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Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
York Minster Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Cat Gallery
0.3 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Shared Earth
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Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Rookscroft
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Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Sterling Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Paper Doll
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Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
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Discover the Royal Oak, a charming pub in York offering exquisite local ales, hearty dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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Discover the elegant charm of Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro in York, where exquisite wines meet delectable cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Evil Eye
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A quirky, cozy cocktail bar on York’s historic Stonegate, blending inventive drinks with lively weekly events and a welcoming vibe.
Vudu Lounge
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
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Experience the charm of Ye Olde Starre Inne, a historic pub in York offering traditional British cuisine and fine ales in a cozy atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Pivní York
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Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Victor J's
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Eagle & Child
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Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
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York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Punch Bowl
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A quirky, cosy historic pub on York's Stonegate offering hearty food, real ales, and a lively local atmosphere.
The Blue Bell
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York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
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A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Golden Fleece York
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Discover the Golden Fleece, a historic pub in York offering traditional fare, local ales, and ghostly tales in a cozy atmosphere.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
