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The Shambles York | Everything you need to know

Everything you need to know about The Shambles York

The Shambles in York is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, famous for its cobbled pavements, charming buildings, and historical significance. As one of the best things to do in York, it’s also a prime location for Harry Potter fans in which J K Rowling inspired the franchise on.

This guide covers everything you need to know about The Shambles, from its rich history and market to the best food spots, shopping, and sights.

The Shambles York — *Image: Shambles, York by @yorkshirepostcards via Instagram*

What are The Shambles in York?

Formally known as Great Flesh Shambles, The Shambles in York has a rich history, dating back to 1086. The street was mainly occupied by butchers, who proudly hung their meat off beams and hooks outside their shops.

If you look closely the next time you visit, some of these hooks are still visible today on shop fronts.

The Shambles Market in York — *Image: Shambles Market by @shamblesmarketyork via Instagram*

Things to do down Shambles Street

There’s something for everyone at The Shambles, regardless of your age or interests. Whether you’re a Harry Potter super-fan wishing to visit diagon alley, foodie fanatic or just appreciate old architecture – you will love wandering up and down this curious street.

There’s even a market that runs 7 days a week, selling everything you could ever imagine, complete with its own food court filled with innumerable street food delights.

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Potions Cauldron exterior shot with staff — *Image: The Potions Cauldron via Facebook*

There’s plenty of magic in store down The Shambles

The Shambles in York is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a special gift you won’t find anywhere else.

The Potion Cauldron is another magical gift shop full of weird and wonderful drink concoctions such as their Spellbound Butterscotch Beer.

Close by, you can also pick up your own ghost to take home from York’s famous ghost merchant or visit a gift shop where it’s Christmas every day.

You can also find many traditional sweet shops on The Shambles. From chocolatiers to fudge shops, visit a traditional sweet shop still serving old-school hard-boiled favourite. It’s the perfect excuse to step back in time.

Street food sandwiches from independent trader — *Image: Sandwiches from @shambleskitchen via Instagram*

What to eat when visiting The Shambles

Famous for its show-stopping sandwiches, the Shambles Kitchen is a must-visit eatery that sits right in the thick of the action. Famous for its sparkler-loaded Guy Fawkes barbacoa butties, all meats here are lovingly smoked for hours on site.

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For restaurants, some of the best haunts include The Rise Restaurant situated within the 5-star Grand Hotel or places such as Roots known for their extravagant tasting menus. If tea and cake are more your thing, make sure to try a traditional cream or afternoon tea at the charming hidden gem of No.1 Guesthouse.

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For a grab-and-go option, consider a freshly baked pie from the Shambles Sausage & Pie Company.

If street food is what you’re looking for, then head over to The Shambles Market to sample different cuisines from a range of vendors.

York Minster Cathedral exterior — *Image: York Minster by @yorkminsterofficial via Instagram*

York attractions, right by The Shambles

Once you’ve explored The Shambles, why not see the rest of what York has to offer? Just a few minutes walk away lies York Minster, one of the grandest cathedrals in the world dating back to the 7th Century and classed as one of the city’s must-see attractions.

Explore inside the minster and climb the central tower to enjoy unrivalled panoramic views of the city. Also round the corner is York’s Chocolate Story, a museum dedicated to uncovering the story of chocolate. You’ll never tire of things to do in York.

Fat Badger York restaurant entrance

There are also many cosy pubs and mouthwatering restaurants to visit nearby, with some of the best pubs in York include spots like The Fat Badger or grade II listed spot, The Golden Slipper.

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