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The city of York, situated in North Yorkshire, England, is a cathedral city with many historic buildings and structures. Because it was founded in 71 AD, it has been influenced by many centuries of history, and, as such, it is full of quirks, cobblestoned streets, and different architectural styles.

In this article, I will tell you about some of the prettiest and most influential streets in York to add to your itinerary!

9 Prettiest Streets in York, England

Museum Street

Museum Street was first recorded in the 1260s as Ffotlesgayle, or “Footloose Lane.” This street runs across the River Ouse and provides access to the well-known Museum Gardens. From my perspective, this is a good way to enter the city and start exploring the historical surroundings.

High Petergate

High Petergate is one of the most beautiful and famous streets in York. It is the historic route the Romans took to Eberacum (York) from the North and was known as the Via Principalis of the Roman fortress. The street has an eclectic mix of shops, pubs, eateries, and offices.

Low Petergate

Low Petergate runs parallel to the Minster and then turns into High Petergate. Just as High Petergate, it was named after Saint Peter. Here you can enjoy some wonderful cafes and restaurants, and you can get an excellent view of the Minster!

Stonegate

Stonegate was the Via Praetoria of the Roman fortress of Eboracum (York) in daily use for about 1900 years. Its name derives from the fact that it was a Roman stone-paved street. Today, the street is home to wonderful shops and beautiful quirky architecture.

Shambles

The Shambles is a historic street in York dating back as far as the 14th Century. The street was rebuilt around 1400 when it assumed its present character and features preserved medieval buildings, many of which are timber-framed.

Shambles used to be the ancient street of the Butchers of York—in fact, there were thirty-one butchers’ shops located along the street, but none remain today.

Visitors also visit this street because of its shops associated with the Harry Potter movies, and many believe this was one of the streets that served as inspiration for ‘Diagon Alley.’

Newgate

Although Newgate was first recorded in 1337, it is believed the street is much older than that as excavations performed in 1963 found a 10th Century cross shaft. In 1952 a new marketplace for the city was created and was originally named “Newgate Market,” but today you will find it is known as “Shambles Market.”

Little Shambles

This short historic street also dates back to medieval times and is a small branch off from the main street Shambles. Sadly, Little Shambles was largely demolished in the 1950s. Today, visitors can appreciate some of the beautiful remaining architecture and the open space with market stalls known as “Shambles Market.”

Finkle Street

Finkle Street was first known as Finclegayle or Fynkullstrete in the 12th Century but became then Mucky Pig Lane due to its close proximity to the pig market. The medieval name it carries today was assigned in Victorian times in an attempt to improve the image of the area. In this narrow street, you will find cozy pubs and restaurants.

Grape Lane

You will find Grape Lane just off Low Petergate. The street was first recorded in 1276 as “Venella Sancti Benedicti” and was known because of prostitution. Later on, remains of Medieval buildings and some Roman items were found under the soil. Today, visitors can appreciate the beautiful architecture and explore the picturesque shops along this street.

Each year, York welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world. If you are looking forward to spending some time in this magical city, I recommend you visit Booking.com to book your accommodation!