Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate: York’s Quirkiest Street with a Mysterious Name
Discover York’s shortest street with the longest name, steeped in medieval mystery and quirky charm beside the iconic Shambles.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate in York is famed as one of the city’s shortest streets and for its unusual name, first recorded in 1505 as Whitnourwhatnourgate. The name likely means “neither one thing nor the other” or “what a street!” and the street’s history is linked to medieval York’s urban fabric near the former St Crux Church. Today, it remains a charming narrow alley adjacent to the historic Shambles, offering visitors a glimpse into York’s layered past and quirky local character.
A brief summary to Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
- 23 Shambles, York, YO1 7LZ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the nearby Shambles to experience York’s best-preserved medieval street alongside Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate.
- Look for the plaque on the stone wall near the street sign to learn about the street’s intriguing history.
- Take photos of the quirky street sign—its unusual name makes for a memorable souvenir.
- Explore the remnants of St Crux Church nearby, including the Parish Room with its historic monuments.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s city bus services to the city center, stopping near St Helen’s Square, about a 10-minute walk from Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£4 one way.
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Train
From York Railway Station, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk to Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate through the historic city center. Alternatively, take a local taxi for about £5-£8.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking is ideal. The street is in a pedestrian-friendly area with cobbled surfaces; allow 10-15 minutes from central landmarks like York Minster.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign 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 Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
The Origins of an Unusual Name
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate’s name was first documented in 1505 as Whitnourwhatnourgate, a phrase believed to mean “neither one thing nor the other” or humorously, “what a street!” The name has evolved over centuries, appearing as Whitney Whatneygate and alternatively as Salvey Rents or Salvegate in 17th- and 18th-century records. Despite popular tales, the name likely has no direct connection to whipping dogs or vagrants, but some legends suggest the street was once the site of a medieval whipping post, adding to its mystique.Medieval Context and Urban Changes
This tiny street is nestled near the historic Shambles and Colliergate, in an area once dominated by the large medieval St Crux Church. The church was demolished in 1887, but remnants such as a Perpendicular window and monuments survive in the adjacent St Crux Parish Room. No. 23 Shambles incorporates part of the church’s north wall, linking the street physically to York’s medieval ecclesiastical heritage. The alley was widened around 1750 by removing houses built against the church, changing its original narrow layout.Architectural and Street Character
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate is a narrow, cobbled alley typical of York’s medieval street design, repaved with York stone in 1984 through efforts by the York Civic Trust. The street’s intimate scale and historic paving convey the atmosphere of a traditional York lane, contrasting with the wider Stonebow road built in the 1950s nearby, which altered the character of this part of the city. Its proximity to the Shambles, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval streets, enhances its appeal as a quaint, historic passage.Local Legends and Cultural Significance
The street’s curious name and tiny size have inspired many stories, including theories about medieval punishments and public spectacles. According to old laws, unruly wives could be subject to a controlled beating here, a practice surrounded by folklore rather than confirmed fact. The street’s name and history have also inspired cultural works, including a novel by York author Martyn Clayton. Its playful name and mysterious past make it a favorite quirky landmark for visitors exploring York’s medieval heart.Present-Day Experience
Today, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate is a brief but memorable stop for visitors wandering York’s historic center. The street sign itself is a popular photo opportunity, and a nearby plaque provides historical context. While the street is short and has no shops or attractions of its own, its charm lies in its name, its connection to York’s layered history, and its proximity to the bustling Shambles. It offers a moment of reflection on the city’s medieval urban life and the stories that survive in its narrow lanes.Preservation and Community Efforts
The repaving of the alley with York stone in 1984, supported by the York Civic Trust, reflects local efforts to preserve the authentic character of York’s historic streets. The street remains an example of the city’s commitment to maintaining its medieval heritage amidst modern changes. Its continued recognition and the curiosity it sparks contribute to York’s rich tapestry of historic sites and cultural narratives.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Crux
0.0 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.
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.
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.
Parliament St
0.1 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The Stonebow
0.1 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Ouse Bridge
0.3 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
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.
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 Bloody Tour of York
0.4 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.4 km
Visit Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress in York, and experience England's rich heritage and stunning views from this iconic landmark.
York City Walls
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
York Mansion House
0.4 km
Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
The Norman House
0.4 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.4 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.0 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.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.0 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
28 Shambles
0.0 km
Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
0.0 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.
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.
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.
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.
The York Vikings
0.1 km
Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
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 Potions Cauldron
0.1 km
Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
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.
GR8escape York
0.1 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.1 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
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.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.1 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Pavement Vaults
0.1 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
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.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
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.
Wine Stories
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
The Blue Barbakan
0.2 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
The Cut & Craft York
0.2 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
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.
Bab Tooma York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Lucia Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Gallery
0.0 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.1 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
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.
The Medieval Scribe
0.1 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
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.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Expressions
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.2 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Paper Doll
0.2 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Fenwick York
0.2 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Blue Bell
0.0 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.0 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
0.1 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 Fossgate Social
0.1 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pivní York
0.1 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.
Social 8 Lounge
0.2 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.3 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.3 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
BlueBox
0.3 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
0.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.0 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
34.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.7 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
35.0 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
35.0 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
35.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.2 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
- Quirky
- Historic
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
