“Guy Fawkes was born here, Dick Turpin was hung a few streets away and Robinson Crusoe, that other great hero, is also a native son of this city. Who is to say which of these is real and which is a fiction? These streets seethe with history…” – Kate Atkinson, ‘Behind The Scenes at the Museum’
Bookshops
One of the best things about being a literature student in York is the vast array of bookshops in the city, most of which are in easy walking distance of the university. Here is a list of the most notable ones which you should visit:
The Little Apple Bookshop – 13 High Petergate
This is an independently run bookshop in the shadow of York Minster which sells brand new books at their recommended retail price. One of the best things about The Little Apple Bookshop is their partnership with York St John, meaning that they stock the vast majority of course books! It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for something specific or hard-to-find.
The Minster Gate Bookshop – 8 Minster Gates
Also in the shadow of York Minster lies The Minster Gate Bookshop – a five-storey building which stocks a range of second-hand and reduced books. If you’re looking for classics, then this is definitely the place to go because its ‘bargain basement’ stocks a large variety of them at very affordable prices. This bookshop also sells a lot of non-fiction, biography, history, and poetry books.
Books for Amnesty – 42 Goodramgate
In terms of proximity to the university, this is the best bookshop to use. It’s less than five minutes away from campus, and it stocks a wide range of second-hand books. Its stock is divided into clearly marked sections and displayed alphabetically, so it’s always easy to find what you’re looking for. Plus, with Books for Amnesty, there’s the added bonus of supporting a good cause with every purchase you make.
Oxfam Bookshops – 69 Low Petergate and 46 Micklegate
York has not one but TWO Oxfam bookshops, although the one on Low Petergate is significantly closer to the university. Both sell used books at low prices, and again you are supporting a good cause whenever you buy from them. The Low Petergate store has a large sci-fi and fantasy range, whereas the Micklegate store sells more classic and collectable books.
The Grimoire Bookshop – 7 High Petergate
Just down the street from The Little Apple Bookshop is this often overlooked little store. The Grimoire Bookshop stocks a lot of antiquarian and collectable books, but it also sells used fiction for prices which are the same as – or better than – those in other local bookshops. Whilst it isn’t as popular as some of the others, it’s most definitely worth a look. It even has a dedicated sci-fi and fantasy room on its first floor.
Fossgate Books – 36 Fossgate
Fossgate is made up almost exclusively of independent shops, and one such independent shop is this bookstore. Again, it stocks a range of second-hand books in addition to collectable and antiquarian items. This shop is generally more popular with tourists than with students, but it is a lovely shop which any lover of bookstores should definitely check out.
Travelling Man – 74 Goodramgate
If comics and graphic novels are more your thing than the classic-dominated range of books found in the other stores mentioned, then Travelling Man is definitely the place to go. It’s an independent shop run by very friendly staff which sells boardgames and RPGs alongside its comic books. Better still, it’s only five minutes’ walk from the university.
In addition to all of these, York also houses all of the usual suspects: Waterstones (15 Coney Street), WHSmith (39-41 Coney Street) and The Works (5-6 Church Street). Goodramgate, home to Books for Amnesty and Travelling Man, also has a range of more general charity shops which stock reasonably priced books. The selection of books in the British Heart Foundation (11 Goodramgate) and Mind (25 Goodramgate) charity shops are particularly good, and – being so close to the university – it’s not uncommon to find old copies of course books there! Finally, York often plays host to used book sales in churches and other buildings around the city. There truly is something for every obsessive book buyer in this city.
By Elisha Wise
Top 5 Voted by 2nd Year English Literature and Creative Writing Students at York St John University
Top 5 York Landmarks
- Museum Gardens
York’s Museum Gardens is great space that offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. The garden is set in the surroundings of the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. During the Spring and summer time, the garden is particularly magnificent. With the flowers in bloom and its squirrel inhabitants bounding about, the Museum Gardens is the perfect place for a summer time picnic or simply an explore.
- York Minster
The large and dominating structure of York Minster looms over the landscape of York. It is one of the largest gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe and is bursting with a deep history and long forgotten secrets. The Minster is a must visit for those who either live in or visit York. Whether this visit is a brief look inside or the incredibly fascinating guided tour, the place breathes history and culture. York Minster truly is the jewel in the crown of York.
- The Shambles
A walk down The Sha
mbles is like a trip into the past. It is one of the oldest and most famous streets in Britain. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings and deep roots in history, The Shambles is unquestionably picturesque. Take a browse in its many shops, stop and have some food, find the shrine of St. Margaret Clitherow and explore its many snickelways.
- City Walls
The York City Walls were originally erected by the Romans around AD 71 and have protected the city ever since. The City Walls offers some stunning views of the York and gives you the perfect opportunity to take some striking pictures.
- Merchant Adventurers’ Hall
The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall is a handsome medieval guildhall in the centre of York. Set in a beautiful garden, the Hall acts as both a museum and a private venue. The Hall is home to collections of silver, furniture and paintings, all which give an insight into the history that surrounds the building and York as a whole.
Top 5 York Bars / Pubs
- Stone Roses
Stone Roses is situated next to one of the biggest clubs in York. The venue blends together Indie and Rock music to create a truly raucous student atmosphere. Stone Roses offers cheap drinks in a Britpop décor and will, most likely, be the place you end up on Freshers Week.
- Evil Eye
Rumoured to be Johnny Depp’s favourite bar in York, Evil Eye is a cocktail bar on Stonegate that offers a quirky, vibrant atmosphere. Order a drink (I recommend the Long Island Ice Tea or Vesper Martini) and watch a true artist create a masterpiece right before your eyes. With more than one floor, you can chill out in either the bustling ground floor or quieter lounging areas upstairs. Evil Eye offers a wonderful place to meet with friends and enjoy a drink.
- Revolution
Revolution York is situated next door to City Screen Picturehouse and overlooks the River Ouse. Revolution York offers a bar/ club environment, with seating both in and outdoors. If you are fancying a soft drink, beer or cocktail, this is the place to go. Also, make sure you pick up a Revolution card for some discounted beverages.
- The Botanist
This beautifully decorated bar and restaurant brings the captivating world of nature to life. Walking into The Botanist is like walking into an exquisitely ornate gardening shed. A wonderful contribution to York’s famous Stonegate, this luxurious rustic setting is perfect for an outing with family, friends or even a romantic date.
- Lucia
Lucia is a little paradise tucked away amongst York’s cobbled streets and buildings. This wine bar and grill offers both an indoor and alfresco dining experience. The place mixes together Italian and Mediterranean influences to create a truly wonderful establishment – definitely not one to miss.
Top 5 York Coffee Shops
- Brew and Brownie
With amazing home-baked cakes, well sourced food from around Yorkshire and relaxed surroundings, the Brew and Brownie is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. This popular coffee shop is located across the road from the York Library and Museum Gardens, making it the ideal location for some lunch.
2. Coffee Culture
Located on Goodramgate, only 2 minutes away from the mighty York Minster, Coffee Culture has a cosy environment with great staff. With over three stories of seating, linked by a wonky staircase and crooked floors, this coffee shop has an aura of intimacy. With locally sourced coffee from York Coffee Emporium and a full English Breakfast that is legend amongst its local following, Coffee Culture is definitely worth a visit.
- Perky Peacock
The Perky Peacock is a medieval stone tower on the brink of th
e River Ouse. Equipped with quirky furniture, a domed roof and round, ancient stone walls, the Perky Peacock is full of character. Originally built as a toll tower restricting ship access to the city centre, the coffee shop that stands there now would be a perfect rest from a walk around the city walls.
- Fossgate Social
With its brick walls, fire place and fairy lights, Fossgate Social has a relaxing, rustic and fashionable atmosphere. Sit down and have a coffee and some food in the day, then enjoy a beer or cocktail in the evening. Tucked away down Fossgate, York’s hidden gem, the Fossgate Social transforms in front of you to accommodate the time of day.
- Harlequin / The Attic
Harlequin/ The Attic are two quaint coffee shops located in the true heart of York – Kings Square. Blink and you’ll miss this coffee shop duo, thanks to its small, unassertive exterior. However, if you are one of the lucky ones who do stumble across this hidden secret, you won’t be displeased. With great food and fabulous coffee, both the Harlequin and The Attic are two places not to miss. (Side Note) If you can, get a window seat, as this offers a great view of the hustle and bustle of the square below.
Top 5 York Attractions
- City Screen Picturehouse York
City Screen Picturehouse York is a cinema/ bar/ coffee shop in the middle of York. City 
Screen is a charming building on the edge of the River Ouse, which shows both old and new films in a delightful environment. As a student in York, the first thing you need to do is get a Student Membership for City Screen. For £20 you get 2 free tickets and discounts off food, drink and future bookings. Also, members are given exclusive invitations to free member’s showings.
- Castle Museum
York Castle Museum is a huge exhibition, consisting of 2 buildings and a garden. The replica Victorian street is a must see, as it features shops based on real York businesses. It also contains a working-class house from the Victorian era, a water mill and a reconstructed prison cell. York’s Castle Museum is an attractive exhibit that offers many outstanding displays, both enjoyable and educational.
- Railway Museum
York’s Railway Museum truly is a must visit. The building is full to bursting point with trains, both old and new. Discover over 300 years of history in one place and observe the machines that truly revolutionised travel – and with no entry fee, you really have nothing to lose.
- York Art Gallery
The York Art Museum is a place of beauty. The building itself is both elegant and majestic, serving as a wonderful attribute to the city centre of York. With a new first floor of exhibits, as well as a large gallery on the main floor, York Art Gallery is a splendid place to spend the afternoon. With a wide variety of art, including work from as early as the 14th century, the gallery has also displayed the likes of contemporary art such as the flesh exhibit.
- York Dungeon
The York Dungeons is a uniquely terrifying and thrilling experience. T
he place transports you back in time to the darkest moments in York’s history. The dungeons have a brilliant cast of charismatic performers who bring history to life. History such as: The Black Death, the Viking invasion and York’s infamous Dick Turpin. York Dungeon is simply fantastic.
Top 3 Voted by 2nd Year English Literature and Creative Writing Students at York St John University
Top 3 York Clubs
- Kuda
Kuda is located on Clifford street, close to the fabled Stone Roses and is regarded as one of the “coolest” clubs in York. Kuda is a beautiful old building with a modern interior and the Tiki Bar downstairs is a hilarious must find.
- Salvation
Club Salvation is a vibrant experience, comprised of two main rooms playing different genres of music. Located on George Hudson Street, Club Salvation always promises to be a good night out.
- Fibbers
Although Fibbers is located on the far side of York, it is worth the journey. Fibbers sells itself as a sort of ‘frat house’ and is certain to be a great night out with friends and flat mates.
By Joseph Wright