Exhibition Square

A Square Born from Victorian Ambition

Exhibition Square emerged from the success of York's 1866 Art and Industrial Exhibition, held on nearby Bootham. The exhibition proved so popular that the city decided to create a permanent cultural space. In 1879, the square was formally established on cleared land that had previously housed a plant nursery and several older buildings. The profits from the original exhibition were reinvested into constructing permanent structures devoted to art and industry, transforming this corner of York into one of the city's most distinctive public spaces. The square's northern boundary features part of the original exhibition hall, which was later converted into the York Art Gallery. This architectural legacy remains visible today, with the gallery's distinctive Victorian structure anchoring the western side of the square.

Architectural Character and Historic Setting

Exhibition Square is bounded by remarkable historic buildings that reflect York's layered past. To the south stands King's Manor, now home to York University's archaeological unit, its 18th-century railings (originally created for York Mansion House in 1726) still framing the space. To the north-east, visitors encounter remnants of St Mary's Abbey's boundary wall, including Bootham Tower and Queen Margaret's Arch, which connect the square to York's medieval defences. Directly across from the square stands Bootham Bar, one of the four principal medieval gateways through York's ancient city walls. The square itself was pedestrianised in 1971, eliminating vehicular traffic and creating a tranquil urban environment. A fountain was subsequently added in front of the William Etty statue, enhancing the plaza's appeal as a place for contemplation and social gathering.

Cultural and Civic Significance

Exhibition Square functions as York's primary cultural and civic hub. The York Art Gallery, occupying the western portion, hosts rotating exhibitions and permanent collections spanning centuries of artistic achievement. The square serves as the official starting point for hop-on-hop-off bus tours operated by City Sightseeing, and walking tours led by the Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York also commence here. This dual role—as both a cultural venue and a departure point for city exploration—makes the square essential to understanding York's contemporary identity.

The William Etty Monument

At the heart of the square stands a statue honouring William Etty, a celebrated local artist born in York in 1787. Designed by sculptor G. W. Milburn and installed in 1911, the monument celebrates Etty's significant contributions to 19th-century British art. The statue has become an iconic focal point within the square, drawing visitors and serving as a meeting point for those exploring the city.

Connectivity and Urban Integration

Exhibition Square's location at the intersection of Museum Street and Bootham places it within walking distance of York's major attractions. The square sits just five minutes from York Minster and connects seamlessly with the York Museum Gardens through the newly developed Artists' Garden—a two-acre contemporary art space created during the York Art Gallery's £8 million development. This garden, situated within the original abbey walls at the gallery's rear, links the square to the broader museum precinct and represents a modern addition to the square's historic fabric.