Finkle Street and New Shambles York
Step back in time on York's most iconic medieval streets, Finkle Street and New Shambles, with their leaning timber-framed buildings and independent s...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Finkle Street and New Shambles York
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on York's most iconic medieval streets, Finkle Street and New Shambles, with their leaning timber-framed buildings and independent shops.
"A truly magical step back in time with incredibly preserved medieval architecture and unique shops."
🚶♀️ Wander Early or Late
Beat the crowds for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on these narrow streets.
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The timber-framed buildings have incredible details. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New Shambles Charm
New Shambles
Wander down this iconic medieval street, famous for its overhanging timber-framed buildings. A photographer's dream!
Finkle Street's Hidden Gems
Finkle Street
Explore the atmospheric Finkle Street, known for its independent boutiques and historic pubs. Discover unique souvenirs.
Architectural Marvels
Both streets
Marvel at the incredibly preserved medieval architecture, a testament to York's rich history. Look up for incredible details!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Finkle Street & New Shambles
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander Early or Late
Beat the crowds for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on these narrow streets.
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The timber-framed buildings have incredible details. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🛍️ Shop Independent
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs in the many independent shops lining the streets.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
These historic streets are cobbled and uneven, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander Early or Late
Beat the crowds for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on these narrow streets.
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The timber-framed buildings have incredible details. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🛍️ Shop Independent
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs in the many independent shops lining the streets.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
These historic streets are cobbled and uneven, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Finkle Street and New Shambles for their incredibly preserved medieval architecture and unique atmosphere. The independent shops are a major draw, offering charming souvenirs and gifts. While the narrow, cobbled streets can get crowded, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical charm and photogenic qualities.
"Mature couple on holiday. We're were super delighted with this place. It's up an alley don't let that put you off. Wife had the quiche and salad. I had one of the most fabulous pies I have had in a long time served with chips and gravy. Place was busy which is testament to the quality if the food. Staff and service was spot. Finished with a cappuccino and a cup of pot of tea. Bill £26..excellent value."
THOMAS ROSS
"Fantastic food, prices and service.
It would be easy to walk past this place as it is set back from the main thoroughfare in Kendal. Make sure you stop, enter, and eat.
I enjoyed soup of the day (butternut squash) as a starter. It was top quality - absolutely home-made, and the better for it.
My wife and I both ordered the special main of the day - mince and onion pie. The pastry was really tasty, as was the gravy and yummy mince filling. Even the peas were exactly as they should be; plump and flavoursome.
Then, to finish off our meal, my wife stepped back in time to when she was a wee girl and ordered “an ice cream float” - a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a coca cola, while I loved my lemon tea, with a fresh slice of fruit.
It was our first time eating at Finkles, but God willing won’t be our last when we are in this beautiful part of the world."
Derek Walter Hughes
"Tasty food and friendly services. The pork chop is absolutely delicious."
Judy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finkle Street and New Shambles are located in the heart of York's city center, easily accessible on foot from most major attractions. If arriving by train, it's about a 10-15 minute walk from York Station. Several bus routes also stop nearby. Parking is available in city center car parks, such as the Fossgate or Marygate car parks, though they can be busy.
These are historic, narrow, and often cobbled streets, which can make them challenging for wheelchair users. While some parts may be navigable, it's advisable to be prepared for uneven surfaces and potential crowds.
Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance. The closest include Fossgate Car Park and Marygate Car Park. However, these can get full, especially during peak times.
These streets are primarily pedestrian areas and are often very narrow, making them unsuitable for driving through, especially during busy periods. It's best to park and explore on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Finkle Street and New Shambles are public streets and are free to wander and explore at any time. There are no admission fees.
As public streets, they are accessible 24/7. However, the shops and businesses located on these streets will have their own operating hours, typically from around 10 AM to 5 PM.
While there aren't specific tours solely for Finkle Street and New Shambles, many general York walking tours will include these atmospheric streets as part of their itinerary.
Absolutely! These streets are incredibly photogenic. However, be mindful of other visitors and the businesses operating there. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and fewer people.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for early mornings (just after sunrise) or late afternoons. The 'golden hour' light casts a beautiful glow on the medieval architecture, and you'll encounter fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the narrowness and height of the buildings. A prime lens can be useful for detail shots. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space and other visitors.
The entire length of New Shambles is a prime photo spot with its overhanging buildings. On Finkle Street, look for charming doorways, historic signs, and the unique angles created by the street's layout.
The main challenges are crowds and the narrowness of the streets, which can make it difficult to get unobstructed shots. Low light conditions in the evenings and the potential for reflections on shop windows can also be factors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the streets are narrow and can get busy, visiting early in the morning can make the experience more manageable with younger children. The independent shops offer unique souvenirs that can be more engaging than mass-produced items. Look for shops selling local crafts or sweets that might appeal to kids. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled streets can be tricky for little ones.
📸 Photographers
To get the best results, aim for early morning or late afternoon light to avoid harsh shadows and crowds. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the full scope of the narrow streets and overhanging buildings. Don't forget to look for details – intricate carvings, old signs, and interesting textures. Be patient, as you may need to wait for gaps in the foot traffic to get your perfect shot.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Finkle Street offers a similar charm with its own selection of independent shops and eateries. Discover cozy cafes for a delightful coffee and cake, or step into a traditional pub for a taste of local Yorkshire fare. Exploring these streets is as much about the experience of discovery as it is about the purchases or meals themselves.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through Medieval York
Finkle Street, while perhaps less dramatically leaning, is equally atmospheric. It's a winding lane that historically housed various trades and businesses. Today, it's a delightful place to explore independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs. The narrowness and the historic architecture make it a photographer's delight, especially when captured during the quieter hours of the day.
When exploring these streets, take your time to appreciate the details: the carved wooden beams, the ancient doorways, and the stories these buildings could tell. They are a vital part of York's heritage and a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Shopping and Dining Experiences
Finkle Street complements this with its own array of independent businesses. You'll find charming cafes perfect for a coffee break, traditional pubs offering local ales and hearty food, and specialist shops that cater to niche interests. Many of these establishments are family-run, adding to the personal and welcoming atmosphere of the area.
When visiting, be sure to pop into a few shops that catch your eye. The shopkeepers are often passionate about their wares and happy to share a story or two. For dining, consider a traditional pub lunch or a slice of cake in a cozy cafe to fully immerse yourself in the local experience.
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