The Shambles
One of Europe's best-preserved medieval streets, with timber-framed houses leaning toward each other so closely they nearly touch. It is widely considered the inspiration for Diagon Alley.
The Shambles takes its name from the medieval butchers' shops that once lined it, and you can still see wide wooden counters in front of the windows where meat was displayed. The timber-framed houses from the 14th and 15th centuries have upper floors that jut out over the street, and at its narrowest point the buildings on either side almost touch. Today the street is full of witchcraft-themed shops, tearooms, and handmade sweet shops, and it is often called the "real-life Diagon Alley" from Harry Potter. Entry is free. During the day the street is extremely crowded, so come before 8 a.m. or in the evening for photos. The cobblestones are uneven, so watch your step.
Opening hours
All day (shops approx. 10:00–17:30)
Nearby sights
- Shambles Market
- York's Chocolate Story
- Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- Merchant Adventurers' Hall
- Fairfax House
- Barley Hall
- York Minster