York Christmas Shopping & Market

York has long been a favourite for shoppers throughout the year and it’s not hard to see why. Looking to enjoy this gorgeous city while festive shopping? Here’s our guide to the best Christmas shops in York.

With its ancient cobbled streets and passageways, you feel like you’re stepping back in time – or into a movie set with York boasting its very own Harry Potter shop. Combine that with shimmering shop windows displaying their festive wares (including a dedicated Christmas shop open year-round) and York’s Christmas Market, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a day out Christmas shopping in York.

From the best of the high street stores and high-end designer labels, through to the abundance of independent shops in York, this compact city is small enough to walk around and take it all in – ticking off everything on your gift list in no time.  

Art Shops in York

For art admirers

For contemporary art lovers, check out the Blue Tree Gallery on Bootham. This small gallery really packs a punch with some seriously gorgeous original art, prints, ceramics and jewellery. And with prices to suit every budget, you’d be hard pressed not to leave with a little gift for yourself too.  

Vinyl Record Music Shops in York

For music maestros

If you’re searching for something for a music lover, or just want a little look yourself, a visit to York wouldn’t be complete without popping into Earworm Records, tucked just off Goodramgate in Powells Yard (look out for Chinese Laundry – it’s in the snicket next door). Tiny but perfectly formed, the shop is run by real enthusiasts and is stuffed full of new releases and second-hand classics, with genres including rock, pop, hip hop, indie, techno, disco, soul, dub, reggae, d&b, jazz.

Bookshops & York’s Wonderful Teddy Shop

For the kids

Just around the corner from York Minster on High Petergate, the Little Apple Bookshop has an outstanding collection of children’s books amongst its offering, including signed collectables. So tempting, you could lose a lot of time just browsing the shelves, but it’s a winner for finding the perfect prose to inspire family members of all ages.

Anyone wandering along Stonegate couldn’t help but notice Stonegate Teddy Bears. With a humongous teddy positioned at its entrance, the shop is the place to pick up a new festive friend for the little ones in your family when Christmas shopping in York – it’s packed to the rafters with soft toys of all shapes and sizes.

Homewares & York Imaginarium

For something a bit different

Owned by the same team as the Yorkshire Soap Company (and positioned next door), The Imaginarium on Blake Street has to be seen to be believed. Evoking the look and feel of a Victorian curiosity shop, you’re bound to find something out of the ordinary here. It’s stuffed full of inspired gift ideas at affordable prices, including prints, homewares and trinkets that really stand out.

Snowhome on Gillygate is a great example of an independent shop in York which always gets it right. Working with small designers, illustrators and makers, the team creates carefully curated collections of homewares and gifts – you’ll be hard-pressed to walk away empty handed.

Harry Potter Shops at York’s Famous Shambles

For the Potter fans.

Do you have a Harry Potter mega fan on your Christmas list? Then The Shop That Must Not Be Named is one of the best Christmas shops in York for that special gift that will earn you 10 points for Gryffindor. The perfect one-stop-shop for wizards and muggles alike, this magical indie gift shop is officially licenced to sell Harry Potter merchandise meaning you can find all sorts of enchanting and spellbinding gifts inside. From wands and wallets to house scarves, chocolate frogs and Christmas stockings, you’re bound to find the perfect gift for the witch or wizard in your life.

York’s House of Trembling Madness

For liqueur lovers

With over 600 ales, as well as artisan gin, whisky, absinthe, rum, tequila, cachaça, liqueurs and brandy, The House of Trembling Madness on Stonegate is a must visit if you’re looking to wrap up a bottle of something a bit different this Christmas. What’s more, if you’re feeling a bit weary from all the shopping, this medieval building – which dates back to c.1180AD – houses an award-winning pub on the first floor. Serving a huge selection of beers and the most incredible food (out of what has to be the smallest kitchen you’ll ever see), earmark this hotspot for the end of your shopping trip.

Independent Jewellers in York

For something sparkly

York is blessed with a plethora of independent jewellers. Whether you’re looking for rings set with emeralds, earrings with diamonds, necklaces with semi-precious stones or a simple bracelet for a stocking filler, two of the best places to head are Stonegate and Petergate, which are both home to a number of jewellers including WERK by TCJ Designs, Bradley’s, Fosters of York and the Pyramid Gallery.

York’s Christmas Market

For handmade goods & warm food

York also has a beautiful Christmas Market which is perfect for grabbing a warm drink or chocolate drizzled waffle. Plus, if you fancy a break from the shopping, there’s plenty of fun Xmas activities to do too. When perusing the market’s stalls, you’ll find many unique gifts perfect for taking home for Christmas.

Planning to do your next bout of Christmas Shopping in York? You’re sure to find plenty of presents for all ages. Plus, don’t forget that you can get up to 65% on Northern trains to York when you book in advance.