Probably one of the best known streets in York, and for a change I thought I would try a night shot. This was Sunday evening and even then it wasn't quiet - there were still quite a few tourists around.
The Shambles is an old street, with overhanging timber-framed buildings, some dating back as far as the fourteenth century. It was once known as The Great Flesh Shambles, probably from the Anglo-Saxon Fleshammels (literally 'flesh-shelves'), the word for the shelves that butchers used to display their meat. As recently as 1872 twenty-five butchers' shops were located along the street, but now none remain - it is now better known as a place where several Harry Potter shops can be found!
Although the butchers have now vanished, a number of the shops on the street still have meat-hooks hanging outside and, below them, shelves on which meat was displayed.
Great shot of this lovely street, I have happy memories of mooching along here. Thanks for the interesting info too, I will be looking out for the hooks on my next visit.
My Aunty use to do amazing tapestry and my favourite one was of the shambles.. it was aon very fine linen and just done with black thread.. nice to see it in this photo.. thank you for the memory..
Makes my wish to visit return. A friend of mine some years visited York and brought me a book of The Shambles and I still treasure it with the hope of coming there some day. Must be very enjoyable to walk the streets of the area.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are all very much appreciated!
I was struck by the positive memories that several of you shared of past visits to the Shambles - it is one of the city's tourist hot spots - but to me it is a street that I don't visit very often. As a resident I tend to avoid such busy parts of town.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are all very much appreciated!
I was struck by the positive memories that several of you shared of past visits to the Shambles - it is one of the city's tourist hot spots - but to me it is a street that I don't visit very often. As a resident I tend to avoid such busy parts of town.
Ian
Thank you both, I'm glad you like it. It is one of the 'must see' places for anyone visiting York.
Ian