Coffee Yard: A Historic Snickelway in York's Medieval Heart
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Nestled in the historic city of York, Coffee Yard is a charming and ancient snickelway connecting Stonegate and Swinegate. This narrow passageway is steeped in medieval history and offers visitors a glimpse into York’s rich architectural heritage. Adjacent to notable landmarks like Barley Hall, Coffee Yard invites exploration of its quaint atmosphere and the stories embedded in its cobbled stones.
A brief summary to Coffee yard
- Coffee Yard, York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and soft natural light for photography.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Barley Hall, located just off Coffee Yard, for a deeper dive into medieval York.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the yard’s cobblestones can be uneven and slippery when wet.
- Explore the nearby cafes to sample local treats and enjoy a break immersed in York’s historic ambiance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s city bus services to the city center; from there, Coffee Yard is a 5-10 minute walk. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on the route and ticket type.
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Walking
From York Railway Station, walking to Coffee Yard takes approximately 20 minutes via flat, paved streets suitable for most mobility levels.
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Taxi
Taxis from York Railway Station to Coffee Yard typically take 5-10 minutes, costing around £6-£10 depending on traffic.
Coffee yard 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 Coffee yard
A Medieval Passageway Preserved in Time
Coffee Yard is one of York’s many snickelways—small, narrow lanes that weave through the city’s historic core. These snickelways are remnants of medieval urban design, and Coffee Yard exemplifies this with its intimate scale and atmospheric setting. The yard serves as a pedestrian thoroughfare linking the bustling streets of Stonegate and Swinegate, two of York’s most storied roads.Architectural and Historical Significance
The area surrounding Coffee Yard is rich with heritage, most notably the nearby Barley Hall, a restored medieval townhouse that showcases York’s past grandeur. Coffee Yard itself is lined with historic buildings featuring exposed timber frames and traditional stonework, reflecting the city’s architectural evolution over centuries. Walking through this yard offers a tangible connection to York’s medieval residents and their daily lives.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Coffee Yard experience a quiet, almost secretive ambiance, a stark contrast to the lively main streets nearby. The narrowness of the yard, combined with cobblestones and historic facades, creates a cozy and evocative environment. It is a favored spot for those interested in history, photography, or simply soaking in York’s unique character away from the crowds.Cultural and Culinary Nearby Attractions
Coffee Yard’s location places it near several cultural points of interest, including the Guildhall and the famed Barley Hall museum. The area also hosts quaint cafes and eateries where visitors can enjoy local fare, including the Barley Hall Coffee Shop. This blend of history and hospitality enriches the visitor experience, making Coffee Yard a gateway to both York’s past and its vibrant present.Preservation and Community Value
As part of York’s preserved medieval network, Coffee Yard benefits from conservation efforts that maintain its historic fabric and pedestrian-friendly nature. It remains a cherished community space, valued for its authenticity and contribution to York’s cultural landscape. This preservation ensures that Coffee Yard continues to tell the story of York’s urban heritage for future generations.Exploring Beyond the Yard
Explorers often use Coffee Yard as a starting point to delve deeper into York’s historic streets and landmarks. Its proximity to other snickelways and heritage sites makes it an ideal spot for walking tours focused on medieval architecture and city history. The yard’s understated charm complements the grandeur of nearby attractions, offering a balanced and immersive experience of York’s historic environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Norman House
0.1 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Roman Column
0.1 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
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.
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.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.2 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Sundial Column
0.2 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 Ghost Merchants
0.2 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
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.
Parliament St
0.2 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Anglian Tower
0.3 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Bootham Bar
0.3 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
28 Shambles
0.3 km
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.3 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that unveils the city's enchanting history and captivating tales.
Multangular Tower
0.3 km
Discover the historical Multangular Tower in York, a remarkable relic of Roman architecture nestled within the tranquil York Museum Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Barley Hall
0.0 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
York Armoury
0.0 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.0 km
Experience York’s eerie history and ghostly tales with a witty, immersive night tour led by charismatic guides in atmospheric city streets.
The Antiques Centre York
0.0 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
Stonegate
0.1 km
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.1 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Peregrine Falcon Mural in York, a vibrant piece of street art that captures the city's rich culture and artistic spirit.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.1 km
York’s largest Tudor parish church, rich in history, vibrant worship, and the baptism site of Guy Fawkes.
The York Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Discover York’s haunted history through an atmospheric evening walk filled with ghostly tales and historic intrigue around Davygate.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Explore York’s eerie streets on a captivating ghost walk blending history, hauntings, and theatrical storytelling for all ages.
Roman Bath
0.1 km
Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
Constantine the Great
0.1 km
Bronze statue of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great at York Minster, marking his historic proclamation as emperor in AD 306.
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.
Mountain Goat Tours - York
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of York with Mountain Goat Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in this historic city.
Mannion & Co
0.1 km
A cosy York bistro famed for artisan brunch, deli boards, and a hidden courtyard in the city’s historic heart.
Grand Yorkshire - Day Trips and Tours
0.1 km
Exclusive small-group day tours from York featuring vintage steam train rides and immersive journeys through Yorkshire’s scenic countryside and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Los Moros
0.0 km
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)
0.0 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.0 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
The Botanist York
0.0 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
0.1 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Lucia Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Las Iguanas - York
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Fat Hippo York
0.1 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
0.1 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.1 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.1 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.0 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
0.0 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
Paper Doll
0.1 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
The Cat Gallery
0.1 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
0.1 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.1 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
York Minster Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
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 Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.1 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
The Imaginarium
0.1 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
Pandora
0.1 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.2 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Barghest
0.2 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Evil Eye
0.0 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.1 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.1 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
0.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Punch Bowl
0.1 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.1 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
Pivní York
0.2 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.
Lendal Cellars
0.2 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Eagle & Child
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
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.
Revolution York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
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.
Flares - York
0.4 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Kuda
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 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)
1.2 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.6 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
34.7 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
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Scenic
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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