Coney Street, York

Coney Street is a key shopping area in York's city center. It extends from Spurriergate and Market Street junction to Saint Helen's Square in the northwest. This street dates back to the Roman times in York, known as Eboracum, where it was situated just outside the southwestern city walls. Near its northern end, there was a bridge crossing the River Ouse. Archeological digs have uncovered a grain warehouse from the 1st century on the street’s southwest side.

The earliest mention of the street is around 1150 under the name "Cuningstrete," meaning King's Street. The term "street" is used instead of "gate," indicating it originated in the Anglian period, supported by the discovery of two coin hoards in the 1760s.

By 1308, Coney Street had become York's most important street. In 1335, houses were built in Saint Martin's churchyard, which were repeatedly reconstructed until the final structures were demolished in 1958. The Guild of Saint Christopher Maison Dieu almshouse was built here in 1396, followed by York Guildhall in 1459, near the street’s northern end. Right in front of the Guildhall, the York Mansion House was erected in 1725, and in 1782, the area was cleared to form St Helen's Square.

In the 19th century, Coney Street was filled with shops including notable businesses like the House of Bewlay tobacconist, Burgin's perfumery, and the Leak & Thorp department store. Throughout the 20th century, many of these shops were replaced by national chain stores. Despite several closures in the 2010s, the street continues to host a variety of High Street shops and cafes. It's also a popular spot for buskers who perform there throughout the day.