York is a shopping heaven with high end fashion, independent boutiques and historic markets. Visitors can meander through York’s streets, visit unique shops and get designer bargains just a short drive away. Here’s a guide to the best shops in York.
York’s Historic Shopping Streets
York’s streets are full of boutiques, gift shops and vintage stores that are the city. Stonegate is one of the most beautiful streets and is home to Kathe Wohlfahrt, traditional Christmas decorations and crafts. The street also has jewellery and antique shops for unique gifts.
The Shambles was once a street of butchers’ shops but is now a hub of art, books and handcrafted goods. It’s also a popular spot with Harry Potter fans as it resembles Diagon Alley. You’ll find shops selling brooms, potions and wizarding merchandise.
Key Places to Visit:
- The Shambles – historic shopping and Diagon Alley
- Stonegate – boutiques, gifts and antique shops
Browse Yorkshire.com Retail Listings in York
Castle Howard
Castle Howard Estate Limited, Castle Howard, York, North Yorkshire, YO60 7DA
Langlands Garden Centre – York
York Road (a1079), Shiptonthorpe, York, East Riding Of Yorkshire, YO43 3PN
Weird Fish Clothing & Outdoors – York
36 Stonegate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 8AS
Vangarde Shopping Park
Management Suite, Vangarde Way, York, North Yorkshire, YO32 9AE
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York
St Nicholas Avenue, Fulford, York, North Yorkshire, YO19 4TA
York Gin Company
York Gin Shop, Sir Thomas Herbert’s House, 12 Pavement, York, YO1 9UP
High Street Shopping on Parliament Street and Coney Street
For high street brands, Parliament Street, Davygate and Coney Street have all the big names. You’ll find Marks & Spencer and Fenwick in this area with clothing, accessories and beauty products.
Coppergate, inside the city walls on the site of a Viking settlement, is another shopping hub. You’ll find Primark for the bargain hunters and Space NK and Fenwick for the luxury lovers.
Key Highlights:
- Parliament Street – high street names like M&S and Primark
- Coppergate – bargain and luxury shopping on a historic site
High End Boutiques and Independent Shops
York has a thriving independent shopping scene with over 200 unique shops selling local produce, crafts and one off gifts. Fossgate and Bishopthorpe Road are the places to find artisan crafts, vintage toys and specialist shops.
Whether you’re looking for a teddy bear, retro computer games or local Yorkshire gin, York’s independent shops have something for everyone. These shops are great for finding a perfect gift and experiencing York’s independent business culture.
Popular Spots:
- Fossgate and Bishopthorpe Road – indie shopping hubs
- According to McGee for art and Rise and Shine Living for homeware
Designer Deals at York Designer Outlet
For designer brands at discounted prices, York Designer Outlet is just 10 minutes from the city. With over 120 famous name stores you can save up to 60% on Armani, Lacoste and Timberland. Perfect for luxury at a fraction of the cost.
Easy parking and car access makes this a must visit for anyone who wants to treat themselves to high end fashion without the hefty price tag.
Must-Visit Stores:
- Armani, Lacoste, Timberland for clothing and accessories
Family Fun and Specialist Shops
York’s specialist shops have model railways, historic armor replicas. The Monk Bar Model Shop is a collector’s favourite with a wide range of model trains, toys and accessories. York’s history is also on show in shops selling local crafts, armor and medieval memorabilia.
Shops like Monk Bar allow families to see historic artefacts and find gifts for children and adults.
Family Friendly:
- Monk Bar Model Shop – model railways and toy collectibles
- Shops with medieval armor and historic crafts
Eat and Drink While You Shop
York’s shopping streets are full of cafes and restaurants so you can take a break from shopping and try some local produce. Many of these eateries are located in the city centre shops so you can dine in or out.
The Shambles Market food court is a must visit for street food and live entertainment while you’re at the market. From artisan cafes to local Yorkshire treats, you can dine and relax while soaking up the city atmosphere.
Dining Highlights:
- Shambles Market food court for street food
- Artisan cafes for local flavours and Yorkshire treats
Find the Best of York’s Shopping
Whether you’re meandering through the narrow streets, visiting independent boutiques or hunting for designer deals at York Designer Outlet, York has a shopping experience like no other. From medieval streets to high street brands, you’ll find history, local crafts and luxury brands.
Independent boutiques, gift shops and designer brands. York has it all.
This has it all. History, variety, local. York. Shopping.
Discover More: York & North Yorkshire.