The Imaginarium: York’s Victorian Curiosity Emporium
Discover York’s magical Victorian curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries to brighten your life.
The Imaginarium in York is a uniquely enchanting lifestyle store styled as a Victorian curiosity shop. It offers a carefully curated collection of unusual, affordable luxuries including art, vintage-inspired homewares, and distinctive gifts sourced from innovative artists and makers. Located at 6 Blake Street, this magical emporium invites visitors to escape the ordinary and explore a world of wonder and creativity.
A brief summary to The Imaginarium
- 6 Blake St, York, YO1 8QG, GB
- +441904466642
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more time to explore the unique collections.
- Check out the exclusive art prints and vintage-inspired homewares for truly one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through York’s historic city center to enjoy the charming surroundings.
- Look out for seasonal and limited-edition items that showcase local artists’ creativity.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Imaginarium location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Imaginarium
A Victorian-Inspired Wonderland of Curiosities
Step into The Imaginarium and find yourself immersed in a world reminiscent of a Victorian curiosity shop, where every corner reveals something unusual and captivating. The store’s aesthetic blends vintage charm with a touch of magical whimsy, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Its interior design invites exploration, with shelves and displays filled with eclectic treasures that spark imagination and delight.Curated Treasures from Innovative Artists
The Imaginarium prides itself on offering a diverse range of products sourced from some of the best and most innovative artists and makers. From unique prints and exquisite art pieces to vintage-inspired homewares, each item is thoughtfully chosen to bring character and charm to your living space. The store emphasizes quality and creativity, ensuring that visitors find gifts and home accessories that stand out from the ordinary.An Affordable Luxury Experience
Despite its boutique feel, The Imaginarium focuses on affordability, making luxurious and distinctive items accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re searching for a special gift or a unique addition to your home, the store offers a range of price points to suit many budgets. This balance of quality and value enhances its appeal as a must-visit destination for shoppers seeking something truly special.Location and Atmosphere in Historic York
Situated on Blake Street in the heart of York, The Imaginarium benefits from the city’s rich historic backdrop. The surrounding area is known for its charming streets and vibrant cultural scene, making the store a perfect stop for those exploring York’s heritage. Its quirky and magical vibe provides a refreshing contrast to the traditional cityscape, inviting visitors to linger and discover.A Hub for Unique Gifts and Homewares
The Imaginarium is more than just a shop; it’s a lifestyle emporium that celebrates creativity and individuality. Its collection includes marvellous creations and vintage-inspired items that add a sense of wonder to everyday life. The store’s commitment to offering exclusive pieces means many products are not found elsewhere, making it a treasure trove for collectors and gift seekers alike.Community and Creative Spirit
Beyond its products, The Imaginarium fosters a connection with local and regional artists, supporting the creative community in York. This relationship enriches the store’s offerings and ensures a constantly evolving selection that reflects contemporary trends while honoring traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can enjoy the sense of discovery that comes from engaging with a space dedicated to artistic expression and unique design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
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.
Anglian Tower
0.1 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
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.
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.
Roman Column
0.2 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
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.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
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.
St Olave's Church York
0.3 km
Explore St Olave's Church in York, a stunning Anglican heritage site with rich history, exquisite architecture, and peaceful ambiance, perfect for tourists.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.3 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Parliament St
0.3 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
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.
Shambles Market
0.3 km
Discover York’s vibrant Shambles Market, where historic charm meets artisan crafts and global street food in a lively covered marketplace.
Unmissable attractions to see
Huntfun York
0.0 km
Explore York’s historic heart through a captivating, family-friendly treasure hunt filled with cryptic clues and hidden gems.
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.
Stonegate
0.1 km
Discover Stonegate, York’s historic street where Roman roots meet medieval charm and vibrant cultural heritage in the city’s heart.
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.
York Oratory
0.1 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of York’s Catholic community, rich in history, art, and enduring faith.
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.
Black window cat
0.1 km
Explore Black Window Cat in York, a vibrant tourist attraction blending art, culture, and community in a historic setting.
Locked in Games York
0.1 km
Solve puzzles, beat the clock and escape in York’s clever escape room centre near the museum gardens.
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.
York Armoury
0.1 km
Discover authentic historical arms, armour, and movie swords in York’s premier specialist gift shop on atmospheric Stonegate.
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.
York Theatre Royal
0.1 km
Discover York Theatre Royal, a historic gem blending medieval roots with Victorian Gothic and modernist design, alive with over 270 years of theatrical heritage.
York Explore Library and Archive
0.1 km
York’s central library and city archives in a striking 1920s building, with books, study spaces, a café and regular free community events.
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.
Essential places to dine
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.
The Botanist York
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.1 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
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.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.1 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.2 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
The Star Inn The City
0.2 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Las Iguanas - York
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Los Moros
0.2 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Côte York
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Imaginarium
0.0 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.0 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.1 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.
Shared Earth
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
0.2 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
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.
York Minster Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
SOCTOPUS
0.2 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
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
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Barghest
0.3 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
0.1 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
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.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Lendal Cellars
0.1 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Evil Eye
0.1 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
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
0.2 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Dusk
0.2 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Vudu Lounge
0.2 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
The Maltings
0.3 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.2 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
0.3 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.3 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
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Kuda
0.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.4 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
34.5 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
34.8 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
34.8 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
34.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.0 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly