Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate Street, York
Historic Victorian Gothic Revival bridge over the River Ouse, blending York’s past with scenic riverside charm and modern social spaces.
Skeldergate Bridge is a historic Victorian iron bridge in York, opened in 1881 and designed in Gothic Revival style. It spans the River Ouse, linking the York Castle area with Bishophill, and offers scenic views of the river and riverside architecture. Originally a toll bridge, it has been toll-free since 1914 and features a distinctive tower building that once housed bridge machinery and now serves as a bar. The bridge is a Grade II listed structure, cherished for its architectural charm and riverside setting.
A brief summary to Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
- York, YO23 1JF, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the tower building on the bridge, now a bar, to enjoy unique views and a historic atmosphere.
- Explore the adjacent Tower Gardens via the stairs down from the bridge for peaceful riverside walks.
- Check local flood conditions before visiting, as River Ouse flooding can restrict access to riverside paths.
- Enjoy refreshments at nearby cafes like Dyls located at the east end of the bridge.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from York city center to stops near Skeldergate Bridge, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and a single ticket costs around £2-£3. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays and public holidays.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from York railway station to Skeldergate Bridge takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available at the station and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street.
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Walking
From York city center, it is a pleasant 20-25 minute walk to Skeldergate Bridge along mostly flat, paved paths. The route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, passing through historic streets and riverside areas.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St 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 Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
Architectural Heritage and Design
Skeldergate Bridge, completed in 1881, stands as a fine example of Victorian engineering and Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by civil engineer George Gordon Page, the iron bridge features characteristic Gothic details, including crenellations and a distinctive tower-like structure that once housed the machinery for its opening mechanism. Though the bridge was last opened in 1975 and its winding machinery removed, the tower remains a notable feature, now repurposed as a bar, blending history with contemporary use.Historical Significance and Evolution
The bridge was constructed to replace a ferry crossing heavily used by York residents, with Parliament passing the York (Skeldergate Bridge) Improvement Act in 1875 to authorize its building. Originally a toll bridge, it was declared toll-free on April 1, 1914, an event celebrated by the local community. The bridge has withstood numerous floods over the years, a testament to its robust construction and enduring presence in York’s urban landscape. It is a Grade II listed structure, recognized for its cultural and architectural importance.Riverside Setting and Scenic Views
Spanning the River Ouse, Skeldergate Bridge offers picturesque views of the waterway and the charming riverside buildings, including the old Bonding Warehouse and historic brick terraced houses. Visitors can descend stairs near the bridge to explore Tower Gardens on the east shore, enjoying tranquil riverside walks and immersing themselves in the area's heritage. The bridge’s location provides a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere, especially appealing for leisurely strolls and photography.Modern Use and Visitor Experience
Today, the bridge serves as a vital pedestrian and vehicular crossing, free to use and well-integrated into York’s cityscape. The tower building’s transformation into a bar adds a unique social dimension, inviting visitors to experience history alongside modern hospitality. Nearby eateries, such as Dyls at the east end, complement the visit with refreshment options. Flooding of the River Ouse can occasionally restrict access to riverside paths, so visitors are advised to check local conditions.Connection to York’s Broader Heritage
Skeldergate Bridge is part of a network of historic bridges crossing the River Ouse, each contributing to York’s rich architectural tapestry. It links the York Castle area with Bishophill, facilitating movement and offering a tangible link to the city’s industrial and social past. The bridge’s blue paint and name have endured through multiple reconstructions, symbolizing continuity amid change.Exploring the Surroundings
The bridge’s proximity to other landmarks makes it a perfect stop on a walking tour of York’s historic core. The adjacent Tower Gardens provide green space for relaxation, while the riverside paths invite exploration. The bridge’s vantage points are ideal for capturing York’s skyline and waterfront, especially during sunrise and sunset, enhancing its appeal for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ouse Bridge
0.4 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
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.
Historic England - York Office
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Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
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.
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 Stonebow
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A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Pikeing Well
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Discover Pikeing Well, an 18th-century riverside grotto in York blending medieval stonework and Viking artistry along the historic New Walk promenade.
GR8escape York
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Experience the thrill of adventure at GR8escape York, the ultimate escape room destination for fun, teamwork, and unforgettable memories in the heart of York.
Roman Bath
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Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
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Explore the depths of history at DIG in York, where archaeology comes alive through interactive exhibits and hands-on adventures for all ages.
York's Chocolate Story
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Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
York Mansion House
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Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
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A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Walmgate Bar
0.7 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skeldergate Bridge
0.0 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Baile Hill
0.1 km
Explore Baile Hill, York’s serene Norman motte and bailey castle site with rich history and stunning views of York Minster.
Tower Gardens
0.1 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.2 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
York Army Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.3 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
York Castle Museum
0.3 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.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.3 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Fairfax House
0.3 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
The York Dungeon
0.3 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
St Mary's Church
0.4 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.4 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
Dick Turpins grave
0.4 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.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.4 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.4 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
Essential places to dine
The Olive Tree
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Rustique Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Corner Grill House
0.3 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Melton's Restaurant
0.4 km
An intimate York gem offering inventive Modern British tasting menus with expert wine pairings in a warm, unpretentious setting.
Ate O'Clock
0.5 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.5 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Pavement Vaults
0.5 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.5 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
0.5 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
Kapadokya
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
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.
The Whippet Inn
0.5 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
Cosy Club
0.5 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Fenwick York
0.3 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
York Souvenir's
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Greybear
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
Expressions
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.5 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Hidden Treasures
0.6 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Gift Gallery
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.6 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.6 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
0.7 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.7 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.1 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Plonkers
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Tank & Paddle York
0.4 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
The Three Tuns
0.4 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.
Jalou York
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Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Social 8 Lounge
0.5 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Fossgate Social
0.5 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
0.5 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 Hop York
0.5 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
0.5 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.6 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
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
0.6 km
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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
