Best places to go shopping in York
York’s cobbled streets are a shopaholic’s paradise, offering everything from luxury labels to high street brands, souvenirs to random bric-a-brac, and everything in between.
If you’re visiting York – whether for a weekend break, or a longer stay – we’d definitely recommend you head out into the city, and explore some of the shops on offer. But if you’re struggling where to start, then we can help! Read on to discover our pick of the best shops in York, and what each area offers.
1. The Shambles
Tick off sightseeing and shopping in one, with a wander down what’s arguably the prettiest street in all of the UK. This narrow cobblestoned street will have you feeling like you’ve been transported back to medieval times, with its low, overhanging buildings featuring original wooden beams and slabs.
Originally home to several butchers, you’ll now find lots of cute curiosity shops housed in the buildings instead (although there is still one butcher shop here). From jewellery shops to chocolatiers, as well as The Shop That Must Not Be Named, that sells lots of Harry Potter souvenirs (The Shambles was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley, after all!), be prepared to indulge in some retail therapy at one of the best places to go shopping in York city centre.
2. Shambles Market
Tucked between The Shambles and Parliament Street, you’ll find Shambles Market, home to more than 70 stalls, making it the largest place in all of York for independent traders.
With many stalls selling local wares, from flowers, candles, and food; through to vintage clothing, crafts, and vinyl, it’s the perfect place to pick up gifts for your loved ones – or a treat for yourself!
If all that shopping has left you feeling peckish, then you’ll be pleased to know that the market has its very own food court, serving a range of cuisine from all around the world – in addition to live music, to keep you entertained.
3. Parliament Street
If it’s high street classics you’re after, then there’s no better place for shopping in York than Parliament Street, and the surrounding roads.
Mostly pedestrianised, you’ll find several major high street retailers here, such as Marks & Spencer, Browns, and Molten Brown, as well as a fair few coffee shops, for when you need a bit of a break from carrying all of your bags.
Other shopping streets around here that are also worth a visit include Stonegate, where you’ll find several souvenir shops; and Coney Street, which is home to Lush, Mango, Waterstones, and many other big brands.
4. York Designer Outlet
For premium clothing at discount prices, if you don’t mind going on a short drive to find them, then one of the best York shopping places for you is York Designer Outlet.
With more than 120 stores offering discounts of up to 60%, you truly can shop ‘til you drop here, with the village open until 8pm every day except Sunday, when it shuts at 6pm.
Spanning 350,000 square feet, discover everything from Adidas to Calvin Klein, Coach to Kate Spade, and much more.
In fact, you can make a full day of it at York Designer Outlet, with a playground for the little ones, and several cafes and restaurants, perfect for a light lunch or hearty dinner before heading home.
5. Murton Sunday Market
For a completely different shopping experience – although one that’ll still let you find a bargain – head four miles east, and you’ll find Murton Sunday Market. Held at York Auction Centre, people from all over the county that have things to sell will set up stalls to shift their wares.
From clothing, through to antiques and general bric-a-brac, prepare to spend a long time trawling, but with a little bit of time and patience, you could just find a hidden gem.
If all of that shopping has left you hungry, then have a read of our guide to the best restaurants in York, so you can refuel and recharge. And, for more inspiration on how to spend your holiday in York, why not discover our guides to the best bars in York, as well as our recommendations on things to do in York with kids?
Alternatively, if you can’t wait to visit this beautiful city but don’t yet have a place to stay, then take a look at our holiday rentals in York, which are perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends alike.