Shambles

The Shambles

While in York we visited one of Britain's most well known streets, The Shambles. Tiny heavenly home made chocolate store, traditional sweet shop and a charming little gallery are all part and parcel of the attraction. The tops of the houses lean over giving you a sense of almost being inside away from the elements, limited light helps you feel at home as all the of the shops sparkle and illuminate the street. Doing some further research I discovered that these leaning buildings is typical of the 15th century. However this street was mentioned in the Domesday book, which dates back to over 900 years ago, and therefore it had made The Shambles one of the oldest streets in York. Recently, well in the 19th century, it was a street full of butchers, and the raised curbs on either side of the street creating a channel was used to wash all of the blood and waste down from the shops.

All in all this part of York is certainly worth a visit if you are in the area. You will not only be able to go in the unique shops along the street but also get an overwhelming sense of taking a leap back in time. However when i was there it was extremely busy, for a better atmosphere and much more relaxed where you can move at your own pace i suggest not going at mid-day.