Shambles
4.5
About
Shambles (or The Shambles as it is often referred to) is a street in the city centre of York with a long and interesting past. Dating back to Medieval times it was once the street of the butcher shops. Today the Shambles is Europe's most visited street, attracting tourists, shoppers and business clients.
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- Kay9 contributionsMust visitThe Shambles has such a great atmosphere with its Harry Potter connections and shops. The historic buildings are amazing: so close together but also the small prayer room which was used when it was illegal to have catholic prayer rooms and the owner St. Margaret Clitherow was killed for her beliefs. It was the one place to find a quiet moment on a very busy and now commercialized street. The contrast was very leveling. Love the mix of shops here but for photos I would suggest getting there very early before 8am or late, after 8pm. Something for everyone here, from the young to the older age groups.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 1 October 2023
- James HArnold, Maryland962 contributionsMust Not Be Missed!What a great place to visit and gawk in all the shop windows. It is a magical place well worth exploring. Some of the Harry Potter themed shops had lines waiting to get in but most shops were very approachable if not a bit crowded.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 October 2023
- Judie and GrahamEdinburgh, United Kingdom2 contributionsMagicalEver so busy but ever so beautiful. Cobbled streets like back in my days, brings me back to my childhood. I would say maybe avoid if you are in a mobility scooter like my husband. You need to visit all the little shops.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 November 2023
- andrewjennyHervey Bay, Australia619 contributionsHeart of YorkThe Shambles are a must do when visiting York. Plenty of interesting stores to visit and a great atmosphere. Could imagine it would be hard to get through when busy as it is an area full of narrow streets however it needs to be done.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 November 2023
- Peter RDartford, United Kingdom1,302 contributionsShamblesA famous area in York dating back to Medieval times. Cobbles underfoot and a myriad of small interesting shops. It seems to have been taken over by a number of Harry Potter themed shops, but then it does look like the streets from the films. Queues everywhere which will probably only get worse once Christmas comes. Worth a visit but we didn’t stop.Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 28 November 2023
- Dream4546265714813 contributionsYOU HAVE TO GO !You are gonna love it. Impressive historic shopping area in York. Steeped in history and atmosphere. Main street caters to many Harry Potter themed shops. Potion shops , a Ghost figurine shop , Wool shops , glorious afternoon tea shops , fudge , sweets , perfume . Potions , magic , fresh produce , antiques , music , wrapped in an atmosphere you will not forget and if you join one of the many ghost & witches tours that are happening here you will find many hidden delights and unique history within the city and in every nook & cranny on these tiny streets . Exquisite.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 24 December 2023
- Sandra LYork, United Kingdom11 contributionsShambles marketAlthough the weather hasn’t been great, the stall staff were incredibly polite and friendly. There’s a wide range of different products to purchase and it is easily accessible. The prices aren’t too bad either, will be coming againVisited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 9 January 2024
- Amila BAustralia23 contributionsNice streetWent for a stroll around here during my stay! It’s a great little street with some funky places to go in. I stopped by the pie place which was delicious and there is a Harry Potter shop and a Viking shop along the way.Visited January 2024Travelled soloWritten 17 January 2024
- AustintoBostonBoston, Massachusetts400 contributionsCome for the Photo OppThis cobblestone street is a step back into another century. Although these days it is crowded with tourists, I can see why, as it is one of the few streets I have seen where the real medieval design has been preserved so well. Definitely worth the photo oppVisited September 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 9 March 2024
- Lisa M14 contributionsMagical!Walking through The Shambles feels like a captivating journey through time, where the charming cobblestone streets whisper tales of centuries past. Lined with timber framed buildings, adorned with vibrant shopfronts, it is a picturesque haven for those seeking a blend of culture and quaintness. Navigating its narrow lanes feels like stepping into a storybook, where each building tells a unique chapter of York’s rich history. The Shambles effortlessly preserves its medieval charm, making it a must visit destination for anyone yearning to experience the timeless beauty of this enchanting city.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 12 March 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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Chris Anthoney
Mansfield, UK12 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Returned to the Shambles, having visited a few years ago. I remembered it as being a quaint, cobblestoned street, full of history and a place you could spend a few hours discovering “different” shops. I was so disappointed! It was full of tacky, Harry Potter inspired gift shops plus the inevitable over-priced, underwhelming, expensive eateries. I think it took us half an hour to walk the full length, not stopping to look at anything, as I could have been in any city, with cheap-looking, tacky giftware at one end of the spectrum to high priced, designer shops that can be found in any large city. Will not rush to return.
Written 2 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Chef's Wife.
Norfolk, UK873 contributions
Sept 2021
I visited here with my husband mid-week.
I have been several times before but he has never been.
There is no dedicated parking but it is right next to York Minster and in the centre so easy to find.
The Shambles is an amazing example of architecture from that time and the buildings all look very well preserved.
Unfortunately, what used to be a street of quirky and interesting shops that locals and tourists alike could use has now just become a Harry Potter themed street and shops full of overpriced junk for tourists.
It's a very busy street so you often will have to queue to enter shops and you will ALWAYS be in someone's way if you try to take photographs, look up at the buildings from a stood still position or want to look in shops.
But my late afternoon / early evening, it's dead and you can wander around easily.
The Shambles Market is worth a browse as this has become a bit of a 'hipster' paradise with Instagrammable (but often tasty) food outlets that aren't too expensive and some decent stalls.
If you visit York, you MUST go to The Shambles because the chance to see a street like this should not be missed. But the shops themselves are forgettable and it's such a shame the shops have lost the charm and variety of previous years.
I have been several times before but he has never been.
There is no dedicated parking but it is right next to York Minster and in the centre so easy to find.
The Shambles is an amazing example of architecture from that time and the buildings all look very well preserved.
Unfortunately, what used to be a street of quirky and interesting shops that locals and tourists alike could use has now just become a Harry Potter themed street and shops full of overpriced junk for tourists.
It's a very busy street so you often will have to queue to enter shops and you will ALWAYS be in someone's way if you try to take photographs, look up at the buildings from a stood still position or want to look in shops.
But my late afternoon / early evening, it's dead and you can wander around easily.
The Shambles Market is worth a browse as this has become a bit of a 'hipster' paradise with Instagrammable (but often tasty) food outlets that aren't too expensive and some decent stalls.
If you visit York, you MUST go to The Shambles because the chance to see a street like this should not be missed. But the shops themselves are forgettable and it's such a shame the shops have lost the charm and variety of previous years.
Written 10 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PhilthetravellerXI
Avoca Beach, Australia863 contributions
Oct 2019
This iconic area of York is well worth a visit. It dates back to the 14th century and was apparently the area used by the butchers of that era. Nowadays it is a collection of narrow, winding lanes – Shambles and Little Shambles – full of tourist, souvenir and sweet shops, with some Harry Potter outlets, and heaps of tourists. The latter can be an issue especially at weekend and holiday times, making shopping almost impossible. The ancient building and shops with their Tudor appearances, uneven walls and roofs are however a delight and a photographer’s dream. Allow around 30-45 minutes to explore, then try and find somewhere to have refreshments. Street theatre artists abound and provide some entertainment. A must place to visit when in York.
Written 22 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lucy Halliday
Washington, UK53 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
It is a very picturesque street with a great historical vibe. The street itself is covered with cobbles and is very uneven so may not be suited to those in a wheelchair. It is also very very busy during the day. I visited both during the day and night and although none of the shops are open during the night, if you want to take your time and not be stressed by the crowds I would recommend visiting during the night. However, the crowds during the day are to be expected but this does not make them any less annoying. Despite this, it’s a must do while in York. Especially if you are a Harry Potter fan. I recommend visiting but if you are visiting during the day you need a lot of patience because of the crowds.
Written 22 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DB5MiiOwl
essex202 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
We visited this and there are a lot of shops and just like being on a Harry Potter film set. There is a shop that sells “a york egg” and reasonable handmade pies, sausage rolls and brownies.
The Yorkshire roast does an amazing pudding wrap………….i had pork with carrots, roasties, apple sauce, GRAVEY and vegetables.
There was one shop that amazed me………. The York Ghost Merchants!! People were queueing over 3 hours to buy a one off clay painted ghost at £15 in a box
The Yorkshire roast does an amazing pudding wrap………….i had pork with carrots, roasties, apple sauce, GRAVEY and vegetables.
There was one shop that amazed me………. The York Ghost Merchants!! People were queueing over 3 hours to buy a one off clay painted ghost at £15 in a box
Written 30 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sophie2327
Darlington, UK103 contributions
Aug 2020 • Solo
Always visit here on a trip to York. It's full of character and so many lovely shops. Highly recommend Little Saffrons, the potions cauldron, the shop that must not be named, the York ghost merchants and flax and twine
Written 19 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jackinbox99
Coventry265 contributions
Jan 2020
The Shambles is one of the things everyone says you need to check out whilst in York. Its a very old street full of pokey old shops and very picturesque to look at. Tourists will be flocking here taking lots of pictures so it can get busy. There isnt really many shops down the very small road and the vast majority seem to be trying to capitalise on the similarity to shops in the Harry Potter films with lots of Harry Potter merchandise available for sale. Whilst in the Shambles, its worth cutting through one of the small link passageways into the Shambles Market behind it, where there are more stalls, pokey shops and places to grab food etc.
Also, whilst you are here, pick up the leaflet outside of the glass cat shop for the "cat trail", which starts in the shambles and is a great way to explore the city centre whilst having fun.
Also, whilst you are here, pick up the leaflet outside of the glass cat shop for the "cat trail", which starts in the shambles and is a great way to explore the city centre whilst having fun.
Written 20 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alicja1
Blackpool, UK476 contributions
July 2020
The architecture of the buildings around is stunning. Make sure you look up not to miss any detail. The street is full of quirky little shops and full of surprises . The theme of Harry Potter made it even more magical and really good spot for kids to see. We parked in Piccadilly parking(£15 for 6 hours) at walk down though the city Center. Due to the present circumstances the way one system is in place although it’s amazing how many people can’t read the signs or just being awkward . The street is quite tight so it’s better to visit out of a peak time . Make sure you don’t miss a Ghost Maker shop at the top of the street
Written 12 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Worldtravel1992
United Kingdom876 contributions
Oct 2021 • Friends
Very quirky little street which is very Harry Potter orientated thus providing some very interesting shops. We only went in the Christmas shop which was in itself very busy. My review for this area would have been 5 stars if it were not for how busy it was - I wore a face covering whilst walking around the whole area because it was packed and there were very long queues to get in to most places. I’m sure if you visit in the week it would be more comfortable - I would avoid doing what we did and visiting on a weekend!
Written 18 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andy-S60
London, UK1,899 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
..in as much as you can imagine how this narrow, cramped street managed to maintain itself hundreds of years ago, with slops being thrown into the road from the rooms above. No wonder everyone wore a hat. Now full of tourist shops with a few specialist shops, who clearly rely on tourists. I did like the atmosphere, but it’s almost like an open air museum: and there must be a terrible illness prevalent here, because every third person sported a blue facial mask, presumably to protect themselves from us always illy Brits. The whole thing was a bit like it was out of a sci-fi movie. Note to self to phone home.
Written 12 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there could anyone please tell me if the Christmas lights will still be on for new years eve,?? Many thanx jon
Written 11 December 2023
Can't see why not, they are usually left up till 12th night.
Written 12 December 2023
Hi will shambles be open 26th???
Written 21 December 2020
The Wizard of York here, from The Wizard Walk of York! The Shambles itself never closes, although it’s up to each individual shop to decide which days they open over the Christmas period
Written 27 August 2024
Yes but you probably can’t take your dog in the shops and it can get really busy. Think I would personally leave a dog at home if I had a choice
Written 16 August 2020
Any advice on car parking for 48 hours in York..staying in centre.
Written 21 August 2019
LPS Premier Inn, 2 mins from the station is £20 for 2 days. You can park for up to 7 days which is £70. Unfortunately, parking in York is priced on a Dick Turpin style tariff.
Written 28 September 2019
What are the busiest and least busy times
Written 14 January 2019
It is always busy at weekends. It is quieter early morning or late evening but the shops won’t be open.
Between 7.00 pm and 8.00 pm it is busy with Ghost Tours.
Written 15 January 2019
charliermanon
Verdun, France
bonjour, est-ce possible de visiter York à pied ? De s'y rendre en voiture et d'aller visiter The Shambles ? Faut-il payer une entrée ?
Written 25 March 2018
The Shambles est une rue emblématique du centre-ville de York; Vous payez pour le parking à côté de Clifton Tower ou vous arrivez aux parkings à la périphérie de la ville, gratuitement et à partir de là les bus partent à des coûts très bas.
Written 27 March 2018
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