Antiques stores line York's Stonegate, one of the best places to shop in York
York is a shopper’s dream. Small enough to walk around but substantial enough to boast big brands, designer labels and a thriving independent scene, the city’s ancient cobbled streets are a magnet for serious retail hounds from all over the world. From Coney Street’s high-street names and Low Petergate’s chic boutiques to the labyrinth of streets around Swinegate and antiques stores onStonegate,York caters for just about every consumer demand.
The city’s most famous street of all is The Shambles, an ancient passageway mentioned in the Domesday Book, with overhanging timber-framed houses whose upper floors are so close they practically touch those of the buildings opposite. Once known for its butchers stalls, it’s now home to charming old curiosity shops.
When considering where to stay, the old lodge hotel is a choice that captures the essence of York's historical charm, offering a quaint and comfortable retreat after a day's exploration.
If you're searching for more insights on York, you might enjoy our detailed observations on the city's most recommended hotels. For those looking to broaden their options, tophotels.com provides a comprehensive list of top-rated accommodations across the city. Whether you’re on the lookout for luxury or budget-friendly places to stay, this resource can help you make an informed decision.
In addition to accommodation, we've gathered information on York's most recommended restaurants, dynamic nightlife, and a list of engaging activities to ensure your visit is as memorable and authentic as the city itself.
York Cocoa House: A Sweet Delight
With a long-standing traditional affiliation with chocolate, the city boasts of the delightful York Cocoa House, captained by chocolate aficionado and autodidactic chocolatier, Sophie Jewett. The shop allows patrons to release their inner chocolate maestro by offering daily workshops where you can create a chocolate lollipop. Not only do they provide you with the necessary ingredients for your homemade chocolate creation but you also have the option to indulge in their exquisite range of handmade sweet treats. These include delectable Ginger Parkin Chocolate Truffles and the irresistible Cocoa House Hot Chocolate that can be prepared with hot water, milk, or even a splash of red wine for an adventurous twist. Remember to experience the authentic flavor at the café on location before you depart.
For contact: yorkcocoahouse.co.uk
Estimated Spending: £
A little-known fact is, York has a deep-rooted history in chocolate-making dating back to the 18th century. This heritage finds an extension in establishments like York Cocoa House that pay tribute to the city's rich confectionery traditions.
At the heart of York's vibrant food scene, York Cocoa House continuously honors the city's rich chocolate-making heritage. At another scenic point, you will find the Love Cheese, a quaint cafe and store located on Gillygate.
They are best known for their irresistible triple-cheese toasties and boast a diverse range of wines, beers, and local and continental cheese boards. On Fridays and Saturdays they expanded their offerings to include wood-fired pizzas, ensuring to cater to all dietary needs with an array of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. They also specialize in crafting exquisite, custom-made tiered cheese wedding cakes. Nestled at the back of the store is an enchanting 'hidden' garden equipped with heaters and adorned with fairy lights. Then there is the Speakcheesey, a charming nook with a view of the stunning York Minster, which is the perfect place to unwind with a loved one or get lost in a good book. For those who can't make it to York, they deliver all across the UK.
To place your orders, visit: lovecheese.co.uk
The average price point for this delightful gastronomic experience is pretty affordable as it falls at around ££
Discover Rafi's Spice Box
Forget about your typical weekend takeaways, once you experience the aromatic allure of this family-established shop, you'll never look back. Rafi Fernandez, an Indian culinary enthusiast, launched her inaugural Asian gourmet store in 1989. Responding to customer inquiries led to the creation of her ingenious curry kits. Today, her sons, Kevin and Lee, continuously stoke her legacy for excellent food by an array of fabulous recipes. These recipes afford you the luxury of preparing genuine meals with little hassle. Take your pick from popular favorites such as the top-rated jalfrezi or broaden your horizons with exotic offerings like the Malay-Keralan Ma’s paretal. The welcoming, knowledgeable staff are always on standby to adjust spice levels to your preference.
Connect with them directly at: spicebox.co.uk
Price Range: £
Helping customers pick the perfect read is the guiding mission of the knowledgeable team at this highly regarded independent bookshop nestled in the shadow of York Minster. They sure do know their stuff, and the staff even includes author Fiona Mozley, whose debut novel, Elmet, was shortlisted for the prestigious Man Booker Prize 2017. Along with mainstream fiction and an extensive children’s section, the store’s jampacked shelves house a treasure trove of limited editions and signed copies, along with book-related gifts. Just tell them what you last enjoyed reading and they will do the rest.
Contact: 01904 676103
Opening times: Mon-Fri, 9.30am-5.30pm; Sat, 9am-6pm; Sun, 11am-5pm
Prices: ££
The Little Apple Bookshop contains a great selection of books to browse, and an excellent staff to help you pick the right read Azendi
This Yorkshire brand has long been the go-to jewellery designer for fans of a contemporary but classic look. It specialises in sterling silver, gold vermeil, pearls and precious stones, with something for every budget. But no matter how much you spend, your purchase will be beautifully presented. There’s a wide range of bridal pieces and if you want a unique memento of your trip, check out the Heart of Yorkshire range of silver necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings, all inspired by the famous stained glass window at York Minster.
Contact: azendi.com
Prices: ££
The Antiques Centre in York
Hidden behind a modest little shop front is an Aladdin’s cave of treasures, from ancient Rome to Art Deco, sourced from more than a hundred antique dealers around the country. There’s everything from jewellery and coins to pottery and toys, all of which have a story to tell. It’s easy to lose a few hours exploring the three floors of this listed Georgian townhouse, which has a resident ghost called Flossy for good measure. If your energy levels slump, stop at Molly’s Tearooms on the first floor for a fortifying Yorkshire tea and a bacon sandwich.
Contact: theantiquescentreyork.co.uk
Prices: £
Nestled within the historic city of York, the Antiques Centre York offers a truly unique shopping experience, spanning centuries from ancient Rome to the vibrant era of the 20th century, including the esteemed Priestley's Vintage.
Take a step off the well-worn path and discover a hidden gem nestled in a quaint courtyard. York boasts one of its most illustrious vintage clothing stores, celebrated for its extensive collection of pristine early 20th-century attire. For the fashion enthusiast, a delve into the carefully curated rails offers a plethora of treasures, from intricately embellished 1920s outfits to flawlessly conserved military jackets. Additionally, the shop also hosts a lavish array of age-defining costume jewellery, exquisitely crafted leather handbags, and an impressive collection of vintage couture from luxury designers like D&G, Prada, and Moschino. Unearthing your personal treasure takes a keen eye and a dash of patience, but rest assured, the reward will be worth the hunt.
Contact: priestleysvintage.co.uk
Cost level: £££
Snowhome: An Assembly of Artistry
Snowhome stands as an incredibly chic hub for innovative design, quietly carving out its own unique marketplace through the nurturing of groundbreaking talents. The inventory is largely comprised of a diverse collection of homegrown decor and accessories, versatile furniture, decorative lighting, and novel gift items, many of which are the fruits of powerful partnerships with ambitious up-and-coming designers. Yet, this stylish refinement needn't be critically expensive. One of their most popular items is Yorkshire tea towels, a steal at £9.95, featuring several local sayings and words set against a backdrop of bold lettering. For the simmering cycle-enthusiast, they offer custom hand-crafted cyclist figurines priced at £24, exquisitely adorning any setting.
Get in touch: snow-home.co.uk
Price Range: Moderate
If you're a fan of cycling, the bespoke and artistically hand-painted figurines at Snowhome are sure to catch your eye; these unique pieces are waiting to be discovered at Duttons for Buttons.
Hosting an impressive collection of over 12,000 button designs, Duttons for Buttons has served as a trusted provider of haberdashery items for the people of Yorkshire over the past six decades. Their assortment ranges from vintage mother-of-pearl buttons to quirky dinosaur-shaped ones. Plus, their shelves hold treasures such as thimbles, ribbons, and lace trims. Not just popular with the locals, Duttons' products made a silver screen appearance too, gracing the coat of Johnny Depp's character, Captain Jack Sparrow, in the Pirates of the Caribbean series. The shop itself, dating back to the year 1422, holds immense historical significance as well, making it a must-visit for even those not particularly interested in arts and crafts.
Reach out at: duttonsforbuttons.co.uk
Rate: £
For six decades, Duttons for Buttons has dutifully served the community of Yorkshire, providing an ample variety of sewing and craft supplies.
Browns, a treasured gem in the heart of York, has deeply rooted traditions, and a commitment to remain a family-owned business. This comes with a distinctive touch of warm customer service that makes for a delightful shopping experience. This makes the perfect setting for a day of exploration between the unique fashion sections, beauty hall and inspiring furniture gallery. In addition, you can indulge in the luxurious treat of an exquisite manicure at their nail bar or savour the taste at the Rhodes restaurant for a pleasant dining interlude. This landmark was originally established by Henry Rhodes Brown during Queen Victoria's reign, and a wonderful portrait of him graces the main stairway. Furthermore, an outstanding feature of Browns is their outstanding bra fitting provision, demonstrating an exceptional combination of skill and consideration for customer comfort.
Get in touch: brownsyork.co.uk
Pricing: Moderate range
Browns is a family-run department store, and something of a York institution
York’s only distillery, York Gin is a small independent distiller of some of the world’s finest gins. Founded by a group of like-minded friends in 2018, the company has launched six medal-winning gins, all made using a centuries-old method of vapour infusion in a copper still and botanicals available during the ‘Gin Craze’ of the 18th century. The distillery is powered by 100 per cent green energy, while the very best botanicals come from around the world: juniper berries from Macedonia, peppercorns from Sri Lanka, grains of paradise from Ghana.
Contact:yorkgin.com
Prices: ££
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In the city's premier location, between the Minster and the walls, with a history dating back to ... From £ 253 per night Check availability Rates provided by Booking.com
The Manor House: Middlethorpe Hall & Spa
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