Coppergate Shopping Centre, York
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
A Fusion of History and Modern Retail
Coppergate Shopping Centre sits at the heart of York’s historic core, uniquely positioned within the city’s ancient walls. This open-air centre harmoniously blends the charm of York’s medieval streets with contemporary shopping, offering visitors an immersive experience where history meets modernity. The centre’s architecture and layout respect the heritage surroundings while providing a welcoming, vibrant space for retail and leisure.Diverse Shopping and Cultural Attractions
The centre hosts a broad spectrum of retail options, from popular high street names like Fenwick, Primark, and Clarks to quirky independent shops such as Flying Tiger Copenhagen and specialty stores like The Whisky Shop. Coppergate is also renowned for its shoe shops and jewellery outlets, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets. Beyond shopping, the centre is home to cultural highlights including the famous JORVIK Viking Centre, The Hole in Wand Wizard Golf, and immersive art galleries, enriching the visitor experience with history and entertainment.Dining and Social Spaces
Coppergate offers a variety of dining options to suit every palate. Visitors can enjoy casual coffee at Caffè Nero, indulge in artisan gelato at Scoops, or savor meals at restaurants like Café 21 and street food vendors offering pizza and Greek cuisine. The centre’s open-air design encourages a relaxed atmosphere where shoppers and diners mingle, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind.Events and Community Engagement
The outdoor areas of Coppergate are lively venues for events throughout the year. From music performances and theatre productions to York’s festive St Nicholas Fayre Christmas market, the centre plays an active role in the city’s cultural calendar. These events enhance the centre’s appeal as a community hub beyond just shopping.Accessibility and Convenience
Coppergate Shopping Centre is easily accessible on foot from York Station and other city centre locations. It features an on-site multi-storey car park and is well served by public transport. Opening hours vary by store but generally run from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, with some extended hours on weekends. Public toilets are available nearby, though some facilities may have limited accessibility.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Coppergate enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant ambience, combining the buzz of a busy shopping centre with the charm of historic York. The mix of modern retail, cultural attractions, and dining options creates a multifaceted experience. Photographers and culture enthusiasts find inspiration in the juxtaposition of contemporary shopfronts against ancient architecture, while shoppers appreciate the variety and quality of retail offerings.Local tips
- Visit weekday mornings for a quieter shopping experience with fewer crowds.
- Explore the JORVIK Viking Centre within Coppergate to dive into York’s Viking heritage.
- Check individual store opening hours before visiting, as they can vary within the centre.
- Enjoy a meal or coffee at Café 21 or one of the street food vendors to recharge during your visit.
- Look out for seasonal events like the St Nicholas Fayre Christmas market hosted in the outdoor areas.
A brief summary to Coppergate Shopping Centre
- 12 Coppergate Walk, York, YO1 9WY, GB
- +441904627160
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From York Railway Station, take a 15 to 20-minute walk through the city centre to Coppergate Shopping Centre. Alternatively, several local bus routes stop near the centre, with frequent services running every 10 to 20 minutes. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Car
Coppergate Shopping Centre has an on-site multi-storey car park accessible from Piccadilly, operated by City of York Council. Parking rates vary but expect approximately £2 to £3 per hour. Nearby Castle Car Park offers additional parking options within a short walking distance.
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Walking
If you are staying in York city centre, Coppergate is easily reachable on foot within 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your location. The terrain is flat and suitable for all mobility levels, though some cobbled streets nearby may require care.
Attractions Nearby to Coppergate Shopping Centre
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Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
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JORVIK Viking Centre
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Ghost keeper - Meeting point
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Parish of All Saints, Pavement
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Parish of All Saints, Pavement
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St Mary's Church
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The York Dungeon
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The York Dungeon
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Fairfax House
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Fairfax House
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The Spurriergate Centre
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Merchant Adventurers' Hall
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York Gift Center
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The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
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York Army Museum