St Anthony's Garden: A Tranquil Historic Oasis in York
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
St Anthony's Garden in York offers a peaceful retreat nestled beside historic city walls and medieval architecture. Designed with heraldic patterns and sensory plantings, this hidden garden features seasonal blooms, mature trees, and sculptures that invite quiet contemplation. It is a cherished green space blending nature, history, and art, ideal for relaxation and reflection in the heart of York.
A brief summary to St Anthonys Garden
- York, York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the garden’s sensory plants and seasonal blooms.
- Look for the sandstone shield at the entrance symbolizing the Guild of St Anthony.
- Explore the nearby York Ghost Merchants’ Dispensary located within the garden for a unique local cultural experience.
- Take time to sit on one of the dedicated benches and absorb the peaceful atmosphere under mature trees.
- Check for seasonal events like the Ghosts In The Gardens sculpture trail held in autumn.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the York Park & Ride service from the city outskirts, which stops near Peaseholme Green. The journey typically takes 15–25 minutes, with buses running every 10–20 minutes. A single ticket costs around £3.50 GBP. The garden is a short walk from the bus stop, accessible via flat, paved paths.
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Walking
From York city center, a 15–20 minute walk along flat, pedestrian-friendly streets leads to St Anthony’s Garden. The route passes historic landmarks and is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering an accessible and pleasant approach.
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Taxi
Local taxis and ride-hailing services provide a direct route to St Anthony’s Garden from anywhere in York. Travel time ranges from 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range between £5 and £10 GBP.
St Anthonys Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about St Anthonys Garden
A Garden Rooted in York’s Medieval Heritage
St Anthony's Garden is intimately connected to the medieval St Anthony’s Hall, reflecting York’s rich history. When the York Conservation Trust took over the hall in 2008, they revitalized the adjoining garden, transforming it from an unkempt space into a carefully designed sanctuary. The garden’s layout is inspired by heraldic patterns, symbolizing the Guild of St Anthony, and features a large sandstone shield at the entrance that ties the garden to its historic roots.Design and Sensory Experience
The garden’s design, created by Annette Parkes and students from Bishop Burton College, emphasizes a sensory experience. Visitors encounter tactile plants like lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina), aromatic herbs such as thyme and lavender, and shimmering grasses that catch the light. A wavy iron sculpture mimics the grasses’ movement, adding height and structure while allowing views through to the surrounding architecture. This blend of textures, scents, and visual elements creates a peaceful, immersive environment.Flora and Seasonal Interest
St Anthony's Garden is planted to provide year-round interest. Evergreen architectural ferns and specimen trees populate the sloped areas, while ground-hugging plants like gentians, primroses, and epimedium form a lush carpet beneath dappled shade. Seasonal highlights include the bell-shaped Christmas rose, which adds charm in winter months. The garden’s planting scheme supports a tranquil atmosphere that changes subtly with the seasons.A Quiet Haven Amidst York’s City Walls
Located near Peaseholme Green and overlooked by York’s ancient city walls, the garden offers a serene escape from the bustling city center. It is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike seeking quiet moments, whether for reading, contemplation, or casual conversation. The garden also hosts unique local businesses such as the York Ghost Merchants' Dispensary and the Thin Ice Press, adding cultural interest to the space.Artistic and Community Connections
St Anthony's Garden is not only a horticultural gem but also a cultural venue. It has been the setting for York’s “Ghosts In The Gardens” sculpture trail, featuring ghostly wire-mesh figures that evoke the city’s layered history and folklore. The garden’s benches are dedicated to former trustees and caretakers, reflecting the community’s ongoing stewardship and connection to the space.Award-Winning Conservation and Accessibility
The garden won the 2009 York Design Award for Conservation/Re-use, New Build, and Open Space/Public Realm, recognizing its successful transformation and sensitive design. It is fully accessible during daylight hours, maintained year-round to preserve its beauty and welcoming atmosphere. St Anthony's Garden stands as a hidden idyll combining heritage, nature, and art in the heart of York.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Stonebow
0.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Sundial Column
0.3 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
0.3 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
St Crux
0.3 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.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Roman Column
0.4 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.4 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.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.5 km
Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
The Norman House
0.5 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.5 km
Explore the thrilling Viking heritage at JORVIK Viking Centre in York, where history meets adventure through interactive exhibits and captivating stories.
Walmgate
0.5 km
Explore Walmgate, a historic street in York, blending medieval charm with vibrant shops and delightful eateries in the heart of England.
St Mary's Church
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting St Mary's Church in York, a historic site blending medieval architecture and cultural heritage in a serene setting.
Foss Fairy Trail
0.5 km
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Fairfax House
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Fairfax House, a premier Georgian mansion and museum in the heart of York.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.0 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
Peasholme Grn
0.1 km
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
The Black Swan
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
York
0.1 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
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.
York City Walls
0.2 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.2 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
Bedern Hall
0.2 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
The Golden Slipper
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
Snickleway Inn
0.3 km
Step into York’s 15th-century Snickleway Inn, a historic pub famed for its cosy charm and ghostly legends.
Monk Bar
0.3 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
GR8escape York
0.3 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.3 km
Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
King's Sq
0.3 km
King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.3 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval church, a tranquil sanctuary with rare box pews, stunning stained glass, and rich stories of history and love.
Essential places to dine
Arras
0.0 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Little Italy
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Bab Tooma York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
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.
Valhalla York
0.4 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.4 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Forest
0.4 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
0.4 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.3 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Cleggs
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.3 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Barghest
0.3 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Take One Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Gift Gallery
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.4 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
0.3 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
The Hop York
0.3 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
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Fossgate Social
0.3 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pivní York
0.4 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.
Golden Fleece York
0.4 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Vudu Lounge
0.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
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.
Evil Eye
0.5 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Three Tuns
0.5 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.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.5 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
