Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
Your welcoming gateway to York’s history, culture, and attractions, offering expert advice, tickets, and unique local gifts.
Located at 21 Parliament Street in the heart of York, the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop is your essential gateway to exploring this historic city. Open daily, it offers expert local advice, free maps and brochures, tickets for attractions and events, and a charming shop filled with York-themed gifts and souvenirs. Friendly staff and volunteers provide tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.
A brief summary to Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
- 21 Parliament St, York, YO1 8SG, GB
- +441904909487
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get personalized advice from knowledgeable staff.
- Pick up a free York Mini Guide and maps to help plan your sightseeing route efficiently.
- Purchase the Visit York Pass here for discounted access to multiple attractions and convenient entry.
- Browse the gift shop for authentic York souvenirs and local crafts, with discounts available for cardholders.
- Use the centre’s wheelchair accessibility and clear signage for a comfortable visit.
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
From York Railway Station, take any city bus heading towards the city centre; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes. A single ticket costs approximately £2.50. The stop near Parliament Street is a short walk to the centre.
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Taxi
A taxi from York Railway Station to the Visit York Information Centre takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £5 to £8. Taxis are readily available outside the station.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from York Railway Station, it takes about 20-25 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is wheelchair accessible and passes through scenic parts of the city centre.
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Car
Driving to the centre is possible, but parking in central York is limited and can be expensive. Nearby public car parks such as Marygate Car Park are about a 10-minute walk away, with hourly rates around £2-£3. Be aware of pedestrian zones restricting vehicle access on Parliament Street.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop 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 Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
A Central Hub for York Exploration
Situated in the vibrant core of York at 21 Parliament Street, the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop serves as the city’s primary resource for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in York’s rich heritage and lively culture. Its prime location places you just a short walk from iconic landmarks such as York Minster, making it an ideal starting point for your adventures.Expert Guidance and Comprehensive Resources
Inside, a team of knowledgeable tourism experts and dedicated volunteers offer personalized assistance to visitors. Whether you’re looking for the best local attractions, dining experiences, or upcoming events, they provide insightful recommendations tailored to your interests. The centre stocks hundreds of free brochures, detailed maps, and leaflets covering York and its surroundings, empowering you to plan your itinerary with confidence.Tickets and Passes for Seamless Access
Beyond information, the centre acts as a ticketing point for numerous local attractions and events. You can purchase entry tickets, bus passes, and the official Visit York Pass here, which offers added value and convenience for sightseeing. This service helps visitors avoid queues and ensures access to popular sites, enhancing the overall experience.A Delightful Shopping Experience
The gift shop within the centre features a curated selection of York-themed merchandise, including souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia. It’s a perfect place to find unique keepsakes or gifts that capture the spirit of York. Visitors with a valid York Card or Visit York Perk’s Card can enjoy a 10% discount on selected products.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
The centre is wheelchair accessible with clear signage throughout, welcoming families, solo travelers, and groups alike. It operates seven days a week with convenient opening hours, including a lunch break from 12:30 to 13:00. The friendly atmosphere and helpful staff make it a comfortable place to gather information or simply rest during your explorations.Connecting You with York’s Vibrant Culture
More than just an information point, the centre embodies York’s warm hospitality and cultural richness. It encourages visitors to discover hidden gems, historic sites, and local events, fostering a deeper connection with the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore further, the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop is an indispensable resource for a memorable York experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament St
0.1 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.2 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.
Ouse Bridge
0.2 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
The Norman House
0.2 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Roman Column
0.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Fairfax House
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Fairfax House, a premier Georgian mansion and museum in the heart of York.
Black window cat
0.3 km
Victorian architectural gem showcasing French Renaissance design and meticulous Victorian craftsmanship in historic York.
Bedern Hall
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
York Oratory
0.3 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
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 Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.3 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.
The Stonebow
0.3 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yorkshire Wheel
0.0 km
Experience York’s historic skyline from a unique panoramic Ferris wheel in the heart of the city’s vibrant St Sampson’s Square.
Roman Bath
0.1 km
Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
Shambles Market
0.1 km
Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
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 York Cat Trail
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic streets through a whimsical trail of cat statues blending folklore, art, and city heritage.
The Potions Academy
0.1 km
Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
Coney St
0.1 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.1 km
A modest yet powerful shrine in York’s Shambles honoring Saint Margaret Clitherow, the courageous Catholic martyr known as the Pearl of York.
The Potions Cauldron
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
The York Vikings
0.1 km
Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
York's Chocolate Story
0.1 km
Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
Shambles
0.1 km
Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
11 Shambles
0.1 km
Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Shambles and discover The Shop That Must Not Be Named, a magical Harry Potter emporium filled with wizarding wonders and immersive charm.
28 Shambles
0.1 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Essential places to dine
Wine Stories
0.0 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
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.
Valhalla York
0.1 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Las Iguanas - York
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Turtle Bay York
0.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.1 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Ate O'Clock
0.1 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.1 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Lucia Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Wildwood
0.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Pavement Vaults
0.2 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cello by Collectables
0.1 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
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.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Take One Gifts
0.1 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.1 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Gift Gallery
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Pandora
0.2 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.2 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
York Souvenir's
0.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Rookscroft
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Pivní York
0.1 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
0.1 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Social 8 Lounge
0.1 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.1 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Golden Fleece York
0.2 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 Punch Bowl
0.2 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
The Three Tuns
0.2 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.
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.
The Blue Bell
0.2 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Evil Eye
0.2 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.1 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
0.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.4 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.4 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.4 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.5 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.0 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 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
34.9 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
34.9 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
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.1 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly