Are you looking for a street in York to explore that is lined with grand historic buildings, quaint stone houses or independent shops with seasonally decorated windows? If so, you have come to the right place as we asked York Press readers on Facebook where they think the prettiest streets in the city are. Here are some of the responses we received so you can make a note of where to go for your next brunch date or weekend stroll this autumn and winter. It probably goes without saying that the Shambles is up there with not only the prettiest street in York, but probably the UK.
Yet we had to include it in this round-up as the Medieval street received so many compliments from our readers. One person even said the Shambles is “magic” while another shared: “The shambles most definitely”. But have you ever wondered by the Shambles is so narrow? explained: “With its cobbled streets and overhanging buildings, it is believed to have been the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the movie adaptation of the Harry Potter series.
“Although none of the original shop-fronts have survived from medieval times, some properties still have exterior wooden shelves, reminders of when cuts of meat were served from the open windows. "The street was made narrow by design to keep the meat out of direct sunlight, but you can readily imagine the Shambles packed with people and awash with offal and discarded bones." Another street locals claim is among the prettiest in the city is the popular Stonegate which is now full of “boutique” shops.
Some people have also posted about their visit to Stonegate on , as one review reads: “Partly cobbled, this street contains lots of attractions from old inns to a Christmas shop to the best bottle shop in York to a gin emporium - all delights to be enjoyed!” Want to know a little bit more about its history? writes: “For centuries Stonegate has been a busy thoroughfare, it was a main Roman road from the River Ouse and Roman bridge to the City headquarters where the Minster now stands. “Today the beautiful buildings that line the street are a mixture of Medieval & Georgian which give the place a unique character. There are many boutique shops and often street entertainers.
” College Street in York was also recommended as one of the prettiest streets to discover by our readers. It’s most famous for being where the fascinating Grade I listed building St William’s College resides, which is named after William Fitzherbert, Archbishop of York (1143 – 1147), who was canonised in 1226, reports . College Street also provides impressive views of the back of York Minster.
One visitor on commented: “One of the atmospheric spots in York...
lovely old buildings so typical to the old town, great place to take pictures of York Minster walls, and charming artisan shop, tiny tea room, and a little are right there...
very pretty place and not crowded, which is a huge plus.” Another said College Street was “nice for a stroll”. Their review added: “All of York is nice but this area is different with a lot is cool little shops and things to look at.
Quite fun.” This Tripadvisor account also said: “What a weird and wonderful area , so full of historical places , loads to do and see. Loads of bars and restaurants , quirky shops , and York Minster is amazing , a must see while in the area.
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