York / 10 photo spots
10 Instagram spots around York
York’s medieval architecture shares the city with gardens, a riverside park and newer bridges. These ten photo ideas include outdoor landmarks and gardens, with access depending on opening times and river conditions.
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Photo spots on the map
0 of 10 photo ideas have sourced location coordinates. The initial view is for orientation. An area marker does not indicate an exact photo position.
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Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
York Minster
The west front of York Minster is an example of Gothic architecture. From the public approach, move in on the stone tracery and compare its shapes with the surrounding masonry.
Search Google MapsThe Shambles
Some historic houses on The Shambles have upper floors that project over the street. Look upwards from the pedestrian route and compose a detail of the timberwork, keeping shop entrances clear.
Search Google MapsTreasurer’s House garden
The garden at Treasurer’s House sits beside York Minster and includes an avenue of plane trees. On an open day, use the avenue to structure a garden photograph. The National Trust lists garden access as free on open days. Commercial, paid or gifted content requires a prior agreement with the National Trust.
Search Google MapsClifford’s Tower
Clifford’s Tower stands on an artificial mound and is a surviving part of York Castle. From the surrounding public area, frame a section of the stone wall against the sky to emphasise its height.
Search Google MapsRowntree Park
Rowntree Park beside the River Ouse has an ornamental lake and a memorial. Use the lake edge and nearby trees to frame a quieter scene. The council may close the park when river levels are high.
Search Google MapsYork Mansion House
York Mansion House stands on St Helen’s Square. From the square, make its front the subject and use the surrounding paving to give the building space in the frame.
Search Google MapsMicklegate Bar
Micklegate Bar is one of York’s historic city gates. From a pavement, look for a detail of the stone arch or the upper storeys. The street passes through the gate, so stay out of traffic.
Search Google MapsYork Millennium Bridge
The Millennium Bridge carries pedestrians and cyclists across the River Ouse, linking New Walk with Terry Avenue. Use the bridge’s lines to guide the eye across the water and leave room for other people using the route.
Search Google MapsSt Mary’s Abbey, Museum Gardens
The ruins of St Mary’s Abbey stand in York Museum Gardens. Pick one window opening or section of ruined wall for a closer study of the stonework. Check the garden’s opening times before visiting.
Search Google MapsWalmgate Bar
Walmgate Bar is a historic gateway with a surviving barbican, an outer defensive entrance. From a safe place on the pavement, include the gateway and outer structure in the same image.
Search Google MapsSources for these photo spots
- English Heritage: Medieval architecture
- Historic England: Numbers 7-8, The Shambles
- National Trust: The garden at Treasurer’s House
- English Heritage: History of Clifford’s Tower
- City of York Council: Rowntree Park
- York Mansion House: Contact and location
- York Historic Environment Record: Micklegate Bar
- City of York Council: River Ouse and Millennium Bridge
- York Museums Trust: York Museum Gardens
- York Museums Trust: St Mary’s Abbey
- York Historic Environment Record: Walmgate Bar
- National Trust: Photography and filming