A step back in time The Shambles is a street near the centre of the historic city of York. Winner of Google’s Most Picturesque Street Award and one of the most well preserved medieval attractions in the UK, the Shambles is certainly worth a visit this Christmas if you are staying at the KP Resort. The street is steeped in history and is frequently referred to in the literature of the middle ages; even mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086. Once home to dozens of butcher’s shops & slaughterhouses, today the street maintains its original character and features a range of quirky shops including a Harry Potter store.
a medieval street full of character
Resembling Diagon Alley (another reason that Harry Potter fans visit from across the UK), the Shambles is a vibrant yet quaint attraction. The actual name of the area is thought to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon phrase “Fleshammels”. The fleshammels were the name given to the shelves upon which butchers would display their meats and other goods. There are still a number of old meathooks and butcher-table-fronts that give visitors an idea of the street’s history.
Also known simply as ‘Shambles’, the street is fantastic for photo opportunities, for a stroll through taking in the ambiance or for a browse of the local independent shops that reside there. You will also find a number of tea rooms, bakeries, jewelry stores and the Shambles Tavern is a great place stop-off and enjoy a local ale.
vibrant & bustling by day, spooky by night
It’s a great place to visit in the evenings as well as during the day. With a spooky feel thanks to the overhanging timber-framed buildings that date back hundreds of years and appear to almost meet and touch each other from either side of the street. In some sections; it is actually possible for people to stand with arms out-stretched and touch the buildings each side of the street. Ghost tours are popular all year round; with tales of classic York ghost stories entertaining tourists as they are guided through the Shambles and the surrounding area by their very own Victorian guide – complete with frock coat and top hat.
saint margaret clitherow
Look out for the home and shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow. Throughout the 16th century, Catholics were persecuted by law in England. She was imprisoned a number of times; in 1577 for failing to attend church – she later gave birth to 3rd child whilst imprisoned in York Castle.
Saint Clitherow was arrested in 1586 for harbouring Catholic Priests, clergy vestments and holding Mass inside her house. She refused to plead; so that her children would avoid having to testify and as a result was sentenced to be crushed to death without trial. Due to her bravery and support of Catholicism, she was canonised (made a saint) in 1970.
stay at the KP Resort in Pocklington
Enjoy the best of both worlds with a stay at the stunning KP resort in Pocklington, East Yorkshire. Located just 15 miles outside of the vibrant York city centre, yet nestled in a tranquil location surrounded by wildlife and nature. Overlooking the beautiful hills of the Yorkshire Wolds, guests can enjoy a stay in one of the resort’s stunning lodges – complete with hot tub, or boutique hotel rooms.
Travelling into York is made easy by the regular local bus service and train station. For those preferring to travel by car, it takes around 30 minutes to reach the city centre from the resort. The bus and train service both take around 40 minutes and run on a regular basis. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
Book your stay at the KP Resort in beautiful Pocklington, just outside of York