York is definitely a city that celebrates all things geeky.
From the love for Harry Potter, to York Comic Con, to game shops, there’s lots to make our inner nerd get excited.
So we’ve put together the ultimate geek guide!
Whether you’re a loud and proud geek or a geek at heart, we hope there’s something here for you.
Have we missed your favourite? Let us know by leaving a comment below or drop us a line at [email protected].
OG Games
This is a haven for all things board, card and party games! Plus it’s ‘run by real gamers’, so if you need advice on what to pick up for your next games night, you’ll be in the right place.
- 1 1/2 Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate YO18 York
- 01904 626175
- Website
Give the Dog a Bone
This quirky gift shop is a treasure trove of ‘things you don’t need but really really want’. Visit the first floor to browse memorabilia from all your favourite fandoms such as Marvel, DC, Game of Thrones, Star Wars, and much more.
- 17 Fossgate YO1 9TA York
- 01904 610771
- Website
Sore Thumb Retro Games
This is a must-visit for any gamer! A ‘retro gaming Nevada’, it stocks all the popular consoles as well as imported games and hardware. There are games from SEGA, Nintendo, Atari and more to browse to your heart’s content.
- 7 Gillygate YO31 7EA York
- 07985 666598
- Website
Warhammer
The popular table-top battle game is right here in York! Collect your next elf or orc to add to your fantasy army and battle your way to victory. With friendly staff and a wide selection of models, this is definitely worth a visit.
- 13a Lendal, York YO1 8AQ
- 01904 628014
- Website
Monk Bar Model Shop
Established in 1963, this independent model shop is a must-visit for any fans of trains or aviation. The intricate models are beautiful to look at, and the shop stocks a large selection of model railways and jigsaws.
- 2 Goodramgate YO1 7LQ York
- 01904 659423
- Website
The Portal Bookshop
A sci-fi, fantasy and LGBTQIA focused bookshop! Browse through the latest sci-fi and fantasy releases and backlist titles as well as geeky pins and badges – this is any nerdy bookworm’s dream.
- 5 Patrick Pool, York YO1 8BB
- Website
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Travelling Man
This comic and games shop is one you could browse for hours! From manga to Studio Ghibli to table-top games, this friendly and welcoming shop has something for everyone.
- 74 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LF
- 01904 628787
- Website
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
A must-visit for any Harry potter fan. Prepare to relive the magic of the popular franchise as you browse through collectables, homeware, apparel, stationery, jewellery and more! All officially licensed merchandise.
- 30-31 Shambles YO1 7LX York
- 01904 801562
- Website
Totally Awesome
Embrace your inner child and lose an hour browsing through toys, games, puzzles, skateboards, scooters, kites and more! You’re sure to leave this fun shop with a smile on your face.
- 8 Colliergate HX7 6EU
- 01904 631696
- Website
Geek Retreat York
Self-described as the ‘friendliest place to meet, eat, trade and game’, Geek Retreat is a place to find fellow-minded lovers of all things geeky. Relax with friends while drinking milkshakes and playing table-top games.
- 3 Low Ousegate YO1 9QX York
- 01904 651388
- Website
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EH Gaming
The board and tabletop game shop of your dreams! Browse through games from fandoms such as Star Wars, Marvel and Pokemon and over 700 individual items in stock across the store. Gaming tables are also available for hire here.
- Unit 14A, Bull Commercial Centre, Stockton on Forest, York YO32 9LE
- 01904 401709
- Website
York School of Defence
A martial arts school in York that specialises in Historical European Martial Arts. Learn how to swing a longsword, broadsword and a variety of other weapons in a completely historically accurate way!
- Melbourne Centre, Escrick Street, York YO10 4AW
- 07595 605509
- Website
Minifigs & Bricks
Check out the ‘world’s smallest Lego shop’ and find a varied selection of minifigures, sets and collectables. They will also buy your Lego that you no longer want!
- Cliftongate Business Centre, The Fold Yard, Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH
- 01904 690527
- Website
York Unleashed Comic Con
And a bonus…York’s annual comic con! After the first convention in 2015, it’s only grown in popularity. This year it will be back at York Racecourse on 28 August, with guest appearances from Will Mellor, Tony Way and more. Cosplay is encouraged, of course!
- York Racecourse, Knavesmire, York, YO23 1EX
- Website