St Lawrence Parish Church, York
Discover York’s historic St Lawrence Parish Church, a serene blend of medieval roots and Victorian architectural grandeur on Lawrence Street.
St Lawrence Parish Church in York is a historic Church of England parish church with origins dating back to the 12th century. The current Victorian building was constructed between 1881 and 1883, featuring a tower and spire added in 1893. Located on Lawrence Street, it stands as a significant religious and architectural landmark in York, blending medieval heritage with Victorian design.
A brief summary to St Lawrence Parish Church, York
- New, Lawrence St, York, YO10 3WP, GB
- +441904632434
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and to enjoy the tranquil churchyard.
- Check the church’s website or contact ahead for service times if you wish to attend worship or special events.
- Bring a camera to capture the Victorian stained glass and intricate woodwork inside the church.
- Explore the surrounding Lawrence Street area to appreciate the historic urban context of the church.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York City Council buses 4 or 10 from the city center to Lawrence Street; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, with tickets costing around £2-£3. Note that bus stops are a short walk from the church.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from York city center to St Lawrence Parish Church typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares around £6-£10. Taxis are readily available and provide a convenient option for visitors with mobility needs.
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Walking
From York city center, walking to the church takes about 20-25 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for most visitors and offers an opportunity to enjoy the historic cityscape en route.
St Lawrence Parish Church, York 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 St Lawrence Parish Church, York
Ancient Origins and Architectural Evolution
St Lawrence Parish Church traces its roots to the 12th century, with the original church established around 1150. While much of the medieval structure has been replaced, the church retains elements that reflect its long history, including 13th-century arcades. The present building is predominantly Victorian, constructed between 1881 and 1883, with the tower and spire added later in 1893. This blend of medieval and Victorian architecture showcases the church’s evolution through centuries of York’s religious and community life.Victorian Design and Features
The Victorian era reconstruction gave St Lawrence Parish Church much of its current character. The church’s design reflects typical 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture, emphasizing verticality and ornate stonework. The tower, a prominent feature added in 1893, rises above the surrounding buildings and serves as a visible landmark in the Lawrence Street area. Inside, the church retains traditional Church of England elements, including stained glass windows and carved woodwork, which contribute to its spiritual ambiance.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Lawrence Street in York, the church is set within a peaceful churchyard that adds to its tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding area combines residential and historic urban elements, providing a quiet enclave amid the city’s bustle. The churchyard and nearby streets invite visitors to explore the heritage of York beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, offering a glimpse into the city’s ecclesiastical history and community traditions.Community Role and Heritage Significance
St Lawrence Parish Church remains an active place of worship within the Church of England, serving the local community with regular services and events. Its historical significance as a site of continuous Christian worship for over eight centuries underscores its cultural importance. The church also contributes to York’s rich tapestry of heritage buildings, representing the architectural and spiritual developments from medieval times through the Victorian period.Architectural Details and Artistic Elements
The church’s interior features include finely crafted woodwork, traditional pews, and decorative stained glass that illustrate biblical scenes and saints. The tower’s spire, added in the late 19th century, is a notable example of Victorian craftsmanship, designed to complement the church’s overall aesthetic. These elements collectively create a solemn yet inspiring environment for worshippers and visitors alike.Visiting Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to St Lawrence Parish Church can appreciate both its historical depth and serene setting. The church’s peaceful atmosphere invites reflection and offers a quiet retreat within York’s historic core. The combination of ancient roots and Victorian revival architecture makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in ecclesiastical history, architecture, and the enduring legacy of York’s religious communities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walmgate Bar
0.2 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.
The Stonebow
0.8 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.9 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.
Parliament St
1.0 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The York Ghost Merchants
1.0 km
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
1.0 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
1.0 km
Discover York's haunted past with The Original Ghost Walk, a captivating evening tour that unveils chilling tales and captivating history.
Ouse Bridge
1.0 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
York City Walls
1.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
Bedern Hall
1.1 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Roman Bath
1.1 km
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
1.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
The York Cat Trail
1.1 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
1.1 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Rose & Crown
0.1 km
Traditional charm and hearty British fare just steps from York’s historic centre, with cozy rooms and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
York Barbican
0.4 km
York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
Fishergate Bar
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
Walmgate
0.5 km
Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
Dick Turpins grave
0.5 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.
Red Tower
0.5 km
Explore York’s only brick medieval watchtower, now a vibrant community hub blending history, culture, and social spirit.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.5 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
St Denys's Church, York
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
York Castle Museum
0.6 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.
Brew York
0.6 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.8 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.8 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Tower Gardens
0.8 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Fairfax House
0.8 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.8 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Essential places to dine
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.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.6 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
0.7 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
The Olive Tree
0.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Rustique Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Arras
0.9 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Pavement Vaults
0.9 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Ate O'Clock
0.9 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Corner Grill House
1.0 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Valhalla York
1.0 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Wine Stories
1.0 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Expressions
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Fenwick York
0.8 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.8 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Gift Gallery
0.9 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
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
1.0 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
1.0 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
York Souvenir's
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Sterling Souvenirs
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
1.0 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
1.1 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
1.1 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.8 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
The Fossgate Social
0.8 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.8 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
0.9 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.9 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 Three Tuns
0.9 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.
Social 8 Lounge
0.9 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Plonkers
0.9 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
0.9 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
1.0 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Pivní York
1.0 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.
Vudu Lounge
1.1 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Tank & Paddle York
1.1 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Victor J's
1.1 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
1.1 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.2 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Kuda
0.9 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
1.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
1.2 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Flares - York
1.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.3 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.3 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Club Salvation
1.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.3 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.5 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.0 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
35.3 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
35.3 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
35.5 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.5 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- 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
