Where to Park for York Christmas Market (St Nicholas Fair)

Plan your visit to York’s award-winning festive market with our guide to travel, parking, and everything you need to know for 2025.

Discover Christmas in York

York Christmas Market, also known as St Nicholas Fair, returns from 13th November to 21st December 2025, transforming the city centre into a festive winter wonderland.

Open daily from 10:30am to 7:00pm, the market lines Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square with beautifully lit Alpine chalets, artisan producers, handmade gifts, and delicious festive food.

With over 80% of traders coming from across Yorkshire, the market focuses on local talent, sustainable practices, and a welcoming experience for everyone.

Book Parking for York Christmas Market with JustPark

York city centre gets extremely busy during the Christmas Market period, especially on weekends and evenings. The easiest way to enjoy a relaxed, stress-free trip is to book your York Christmas Fair parking in advance with JustPark

With JustPark, you can reserve a convenient space near the market, choose from private driveways or secure car parks, avoid circling the city centre for last-minute spaces, and extend your stay easily through the app if you want more time to explore.

Great areas for pre-bookable spaces include the streets surrounding the city centre such as Fossgate, Coppergate, Museum Gardens, Bootham, Gillygate and the routes around York Station, all within a comfortable walk to the market stalls.

There is no dedicated market parking, so booking a space with JustPark is your best bet.

Alternative Ways of Getting to York Christmas Market

Park & Ride

York’s Park & Ride service offers free parking at all sites and frequent buses to the city centre, making it one of the most convenient and sustainable options for visiting the market.

By Train

York Railway Station is around a 10–15 minute walk from the market, with direct trains from London, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Sheffield and other key regional stations.

York Christmas Market - Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a residents’ discount?
Yes. All traders offer a 10% discount for York residents with a valid York Card or ID that clearly shows York residency, such as a driving licence or older person’s bus pass.

Will there be Christmas lights in York this year?
Yes. The city’s festive lighting is delivered by York BID and Make It York, using sustainable LED and solar-powered technology.

Is there a light switch-on event this year?
No, there is no light switch-on event planned in York for 2025.

Is there parking at York Christmas Market?
There is no dedicated market parking. Booking parking in advance with JustPark is recommended, especially during peak times.

What safety measures are in place during the festive season?
Information on security and safety across the Christmas period is available through Visit York’s official channels.

What sustainability measures are in place?
York Christmas Market operates a no single-use plastic policy and uses energy-efficient lighting across its displays.

Live Near York Christmas Market? Earn Extra Festive Income

If you live in central areas such as Bootham, Gillygate, Bishopthorpe Road, the streets around York Station, or near the historic centre, you can earn extra income during the festive season by renting out your driveway with JustPark.

With demand for parking extremely high throughout November and December, your space could help visitors while boosting your seasonal earnings.

Enjoy a Magical, Stress-Free Trip to York

York Christmas Market (St Nicholas Fair) is one of the most charming festive experiences in the UK.

From local crafts to seasonal flavours and Christmas lights, it’s the perfect seasonal day out and booking your parking in advance ensures your visit is enjoyable from the moment you arrive.

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Parking sorted in seconds.

Journeys are simpler with a dedicated space, just for you.

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