28 Shambles, York
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
A historic building nestled in the heart of York's most famous medieval street. Located at 28 Shambles, this address sits within one of Europe's best-preserved medieval shopping streets, known for its timber-framed architecture dating back to the 14th century. The building is part of a vibrant destination filled with independent shops, cafes, and attractions that blend historical charm with contemporary experiences. Whether you're exploring the street's rich butchering heritage or discovering its modern appeal as a cultural hotspot, 28 Shambles offers direct access to York's most iconic and atmospheric location.
A brief summary to 28 Shambles
- 28 Shambles, York, YO1 7LX, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to experience the street with fewer crowds. Peak times occur mid-morning through mid-afternoon, particularly during school holidays and summer months.
- Look up frequently to appreciate the architectural details of the timber-framed buildings, including original wooden beams, jettied floors, and the meat hooks still visible on many shopfronts.
- Explore the independent shops and boutiques for unique, locally-made gifts and crafts rather than mass-produced souvenirs. Many retailers stock handmade items unavailable elsewhere.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the cobbled street can be uneven and slippery in wet weather. The narrow street and crowds require careful footing.
- Allow time to visit nearby attractions including York Minster, York's Chocolate Story, and historic pubs like Ye Olde Starre Inne, all within easy walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from York Railway Station
From York Railway Station, walk approximately 15–20 minutes through the city centre. Head north from the station toward the medieval city walls, passing through the bustling shopping district. Follow signs toward York Minster, which will guide you into the historic core. The Shambles is located just east of the Minster. The route is entirely on paved streets with good pedestrian infrastructure and clear directional signage throughout.
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Bus from York city centre
Multiple local bus routes serve the York city centre area with stops near the Shambles. Journey times from the station are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and route. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50. The nearest bus stops are on Parliament Street or Coney Street, both within 2–3 minutes' walk of the Shambles.
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Taxi or ride-share from York Railway Station
Taxis and ride-share services operate from York Railway Station. Journey time to the Shambles is typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8–£15. Parking near the Shambles is extremely limited due to the narrow medieval street and pedestrian-only zones, making taxi or ride-share more practical than driving.
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Park-and-ride from York periphery
York operates several park-and-ride facilities on the city outskirts with regular shuttle bus services into the city centre. Journey times from park-and-ride sites to the Shambles area are typically 15–25 minutes. This option is cost-effective for visitors arriving by car, with parking fees around £5–£7 and bus fares approximately £2–£3 per person. Services run frequently throughout the day.
28 Shambles location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about 28 Shambles
A Window into Medieval York's Trading Heart
28 Shambles occupies a prime position on York's most celebrated historic street, a location that has served as a commercial and social hub for nearly a thousand years. Originally known as the Great Flesh Shambles, this street earned its name from the Anglo-Saxon word for the shelves where butchers displayed their wares. The building at number 28 stands as part of a remarkable continuum of medieval commerce, where the architecture itself tells the story of York's evolution from a Roman settlement through the medieval period and into the modern era. The street was deliberately designed narrow to keep meat out of direct sunlight, and the distinctive overhanging timber-framed buildings create a natural canopy effect that has become the street's defining visual characteristic. These projecting upper storeys served practical purposes: they protected goods displayed in merchants' stalls below from rain and provided additional living space without requiring additional street frontage. Walking past 28 Shambles, you can still observe the original meat hooks and display shelves that remain visible on many shopfronts, remnants of the street's butchering past.Architectural Heritage and Restoration
The buildings along the Shambles, including those surrounding 28, represent an extraordinary collection of medieval and Elizabethan architecture. Many structures date from the 14th to 15th centuries, featuring original wooden beams, sloping floors, and uneven walls that reflect the organic growth and settling of centuries-old timber construction. The street contains 27 listed buildings, including 10 Grade II* and 17 Grade II listings, making it one of the most comprehensively protected historic streets in Britain. During the 1950s, York City Council undertook extensive restoration work on many properties, some of which has been reconsidered as overly interventionist by modern heritage standards. However, these efforts preserved the street's essential character and ensured its survival as a living, functioning commercial space rather than a museum piece. The restoration work, while controversial in retrospect, allowed the Shambles to transition from a declining area into the thriving destination it is today.Contemporary Life on an Ancient Street
28 Shambles exists at the intersection of deep history and vibrant present-day commerce. The street now hosts independent shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that attract visitors from around the world. The famous Shambles Kitchen, known for its smoked meats and artisanal sandwiches, sits nearby, along with numerous gift shops, bakeries, and specialty retailers. The street operates as a seven-day-a-week market with a food court offering diverse street food options, creating an atmosphere that blends medieval authenticity with contemporary consumer experience. The location has gained particular prominence in recent years due to its resemblance to Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series, though the street was not actually featured in the films. This cultural association has drawn millions of fans to explore the area, and several themed shops have opened to capitalize on this connection, including The Potion Cauldron and The Shop That Must Not be Named, which have become viral sensations on social media.Strategic Position Within York's Historic Core
28 Shambles provides immediate access to York's most significant attractions. York Minster, one of the world's grandest cathedrals dating back to the 7th century, stands just minutes away. The nearby York's Chocolate Story museum, historic pubs like Ye Olde Starre Inne (claiming to date from the 15th century), and numerous other heritage sites create a concentrated zone of historical significance. The street's location within York's medieval city walls makes it a natural focal point for any visitor exploring the city's Roman, medieval, and Georgian heritage.The Shambles as Living History
What distinguishes 28 Shambles from a preserved historical site is its continued vitality as a functioning commercial and social space. The street remains remarkably unchanged in its fundamental layout and character, yet it has successfully adapted to contemporary use. Visitors experience not a frozen moment in time but rather a genuine medieval street that has evolved continuously over nine centuries. The raised pavements that once channeled butchers' waste now guide modern shoppers; the overhanging buildings that once provided shelter for medieval traders now create an intimate, atmospheric environment for contemporary commerce and tourism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Crux
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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
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Ghost Hunt of York
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Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The Stonebow
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A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Ouse Bridge
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Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Sundial Column
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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.
St Anthonys Garden
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Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
St Denys's Church, York
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Explore the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of St Denys's Church in York, a must-visit Anglican church and tourist attraction.
Clifford's Tower, York
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Visit Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress in York, and experience England's rich heritage and stunning views from this iconic landmark.
The Bloody Tour of York
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Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
St Michael Le Belfrey
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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
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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
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
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Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
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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
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A modest yet powerful shrine in York’s Shambles honoring Saint Margaret Clitherow, the courageous Catholic martyr known as the Pearl of York.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
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Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
The Potions Academy
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Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
Shambles
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Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
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Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
Shambles Market
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Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
The York Vikings
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Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
The Potions Cauldron
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Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
11 Shambles
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Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
GR8escape York
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Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
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Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
York's Chocolate Story
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Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
King's Sq
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King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Essential places to dine
Marzano Italian & Grill
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Pavement Vaults
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Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Valhalla York
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Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Cosy Club
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Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Ate O'Clock
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Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Wine Stories
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Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
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A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
The Blue Barbakan
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Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
The Cut & Craft York
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Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Wildwood
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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
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Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Las Iguanas - York
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Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Lucia Restaurant
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Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
La Vecchia Scuola
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Gallery
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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
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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.
Take One Gifts
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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.
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.
Sterling Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
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Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Paper Doll
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Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Dog & Bone Vintage
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Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Fenwick York
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Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Golden Fleece York
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York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Blue Bell
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York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
The Hop York
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A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Pivní York
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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
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Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Fossgate Social
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A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Three Tuns
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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
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York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Victor J's
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Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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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
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York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
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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 York Riverside
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Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
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York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
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York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
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Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Popworld York
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York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
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York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
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York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
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York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
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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
34.1 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.
PRYZM
35.2 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Entertaining
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
- TikTok-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
