Stonegate: York’s Historic Thoroughfare of Timeless Charm
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
Stonegate is one of York’s most iconic and historically rich streets, tracing its origins to Roman times. Renowned for its medieval timber-framed buildings, listed architecture, and vibrant past as a hub for goldsmiths, printers, and bookshops, Stonegate blends deep heritage with a lively pedestrian atmosphere in the heart of York’s city centre.
A brief summary to Stonegate
- York, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Ye Olde Starre Inne for a taste of York’s oldest pub atmosphere, dating back to the 15th century.
- Explore Coffee Yard off Stonegate to uncover the historic site of early printing and publishing in York.
- Look for the Norman House remains behind Nos. 48-50 to glimpse rare 12th-century stone architecture.
- Admire the timber-framed buildings with their distinctive jettied upper floors and historic architectural details.
- Experience the street as a pedestrian to fully appreciate its lively atmosphere and historic character.
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 the number 12 or 13 bus from York Railway Station to the city centre; journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. From the city centre stop, Stonegate is a short 5-minute walk. Single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Walking
From York Railway Station, a scenic 25-minute walk along the historic city streets leads to Stonegate. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, passing landmarks such as the city walls and Museum Gardens.
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Taxi
A taxi from York Railway Station to Stonegate typically takes 7-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10 GBP. Taxis are readily available at the station.
Stonegate 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 Stonegate
Ancient Origins Beneath Modern Stone
Stonegate follows the line of the Roman via praetoria, a principal road of the fortress of Eboracum, connecting the main gate near St Helen's Square to the Roman headquarters beneath York Minster. This ancient route, paved with large granite-like stones, laid the foundation for Stonegate’s enduring importance. The street’s name, first recorded around 1118, likely refers to its unique stone paving or to the stone transported along it for the Norman construction of York Minster.A Medieval and Ecclesiastical Centre
By the medieval period, Stonegate was a bustling street within the Liberty of St Peter’s, closely linked to York Minster. Many buildings belonged to the church or housed trades supporting ecclesiastical functions. Goldsmiths and glass painters flourished here from the 15th century, while from the 16th century the street gained renown for its printers and bookshops. It also served as a key route for civic processions between the Guildhall and the Minster and hosted performances of York’s historic Mystery Plays.Architectural Heritage and Notable Buildings
Stonegate is lined with many listed buildings showcasing architectural styles from the 14th to 17th centuries. Highlights include Ye Olde Starre Inne, dating back to the 15th century and reputedly York’s oldest continuously operating pub, and the Norman House, a rare 12th-century stone building discovered behind Nos. 48-50. The street’s timber-framed houses often feature jettied upper floors and ornate details such as bressumer beams. The York Medical Society Rooms at No. 23 reveal a layered history with a hidden garden and Victorian-era decorative elements.A Street of Trades and Traditions
Historically, Stonegate hosted a diverse range of trades including goldsmiths, glaziers, hosiers, saddlers, apothecaries, tailors, artists, and antique dealers. John Todd’s famous 18th-century library and bookshop was located here, reflecting the street’s longstanding literary connections. The presence of printers is symbolized by the Red Devil sign outside No. 33, pointing to Coffee Yard, once home to the eccentric publisher Thomas Gent.Modern-Day Experience and Atmosphere
Today, Stonegate is a pedestrian-friendly street that remains a focal point for visitors exploring York’s rich heritage. Its charming mix of medieval architecture, boutique shops, cafes, and pubs creates a vibrant yet historic atmosphere. The street’s layout, with narrow yards and snickleways leading off, invites exploration and discovery, making it a quintessential York experience.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Stonegate’s enduring legacy is reflected in its continuous use as a major thoroughfare for over two millennia. From Roman legions to medieval guilds and modern tourists, the street has been a stage for York’s evolving story. Its buildings and layout preserve layers of history, while its role in civic and cultural life underscores its importance as a living monument to the city’s past and present.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.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Anglian Tower
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
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.
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.
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.
Parliament St
0.3 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.3 km
Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Yorkshire Museum
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of Yorkshire at the Yorkshire Museum, where ancient artifacts and beautiful gardens await every visitor.
Barker Tower
0.3 km
A 14th-century river tower where medieval tolls, ferries, and York's leather trade converged.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Armoury
0.0 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
Coffee yard
0.1 km
Discover the quiet charm and medieval heritage of Coffee Yard, a historic snickelway nestled in the heart of York’s old city.
Barley Hall
0.1 km
Step into Barley Hall, York’s beautifully restored medieval townhouse, and experience the vibrant domestic life of 14th-century England.
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.
The Antiques Centre York
0.1 km
York’s largest antiques emporium on historic Stonegate, offering diverse treasures across three floors in a vibrant community setting.
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.
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.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.1 km
Experience York’s eerie history and ghostly tales with a witty, immersive night tour led by charismatic guides in atmospheric city streets.
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.
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.
Huntfun York
0.1 km
Explore York’s historic heart through a captivating, family-friendly treasure hunt filled with cryptic clues and hidden gems.
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.
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 Red House Antique Centre
0.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in York’s historic Red House, where over 60 dealers offer unique finds for every budget.
York Mansion House
0.1 km
Explore the elegant Georgian Mansion House, a historic civic residence and cultural gem in the heart of York’s vibrant city centre.
Essential places to dine
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
0.0 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
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.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.1 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare 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.
Los Moros
0.1 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Las Iguanas - York
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.1 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined 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.
Côte York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
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.
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.
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.
Brew & Brownie
0.1 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
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
0.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
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.
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.
Shared Earth
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
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.
York Minster Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Cello by Collectables
0.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
0.2 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
The Punch Bowl
0.0 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Evil Eye
0.0 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lendal Cellars
0.1 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Dusk
0.1 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
