Brilliant Bookshops: Minster Gate Book Shop

At the heart of York lies the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St. Peter in York, more commonly known as York Minster. Boasting the country’s richest collection of stained glass, including the Five Sisters window being the biggest stretch of medieval glass in existence, the fabulous Gothic-style building was built over 250 years, between 1220 and 1472. 

The streets around the cathedral precinct are as fascinating at the church itself, with glimpses of history everywhere. On the corner where High Petergate meets Minster Gates, a carved figure of Minerva, goddess of wisdom, war, art, schools, justice and commerce, sits, resting her arm on a pile of books. She serves as a reminder of the days when this was the street of bookbinders and booksellers. Around 1470, it was known as Bookland Lane and later as Bookbinders Alley and so it’s the perfect location for a Brilliant Bookshop!

Minster Gate Book Shop has been a firm favourite of our family for many years. When I was younger, Dad and I would spend ages here, browsing to our hearts’ content and then gloating over our finds over a cup of tea once we were home. Sadly, on my last visit, Dad was not up to coming so I had to share the visit with my husband.

The Minster Gate Book Shop is a treasure trove of antiquarian and second-hand books, in five rooms spread over three floors. There is a cosy, welcoming atmosphere and plenty of books to explore- the perfect combination. I found some lovely myths and legends books to add to my collection and spent quite some time exploring the children’s section.

Minster Gate Book Shop is an essential stop for any visit to York- a wonderfully atmospheric city, full of history and magic!

Minster Gate Book Shop

8 Minster Gates,

York YO1 7HL