Micklegate

Distractions and illusions

I went into Micklegate from Ousegate then across Ouse bridge. I found that walking on the right pavement was a little tight as it was two people’s width, but as you get closer to the bridge it does widen out. This could be not welcoming for visitors to walk across Ousebridge, and they may instead turn into Spurriergate. Once on the bridge it was pleasant and wide enough for many people. Although the barriers are a little high and solid stone, it’s not quite as appealing as walking on Lendal bridge. Also, the views are definitely not as nice as Lendal bridge’s. Looking south on the bridge shows a lot of hard surfaces, and industrial looking buildings. It is not particularly interesting but there are steps to get to the river bank. Here are benches for the pub located here and the cobbles are interesting. This route may also be more appealing for visitors than going across the bridge. Once over the bridge along bridge street is enjoyable with plenty of room for visitors.

South view from Ouse Bridge - stairs leading to riverside pub

Once I got to Micklegate, looking up the curved cobbled road and green. It is actually very alluring to go up. It is a little steep, but is not an issue with elderly as I saw a few venture up this incline. The steepness may be an issue for wheelchair users, but the pavements are not uneven. Actually, since I rarely come to this side of town, I was actually very surprised to see that this street has been the most pleasant out of all the during the site surveys. The street is spacious, inviting, clean and there is very few traffic running up and down this road. It is very pedestrian friendly. At the top of this street are nice varieties of shops/restaurants, architecture and also leads to the City walls. This makes the experience confusing as surely such a great street would be popular, but clearly it doesn't receive much footfall in comparison the others. There are a few shops closing down so what is the issue with this street?

Majestic entrance into Micklegate.

The only thing I can really say is that it can be a bit difficult to find. It can be tempting for visitors to go to Spurriergate or walk along the banks of the river Ouse. So unless you cross Ouse bridge, you would not see it. Then there is one other way to get to Micklegate: from Rougier street. This route connects to lendal bridge near the train station. But walking towards Micklegate from here is not very pleasant at all. There are many bus stops to one side and also this street is quite dim from the surrounding high buildings.

Distinct shops and little traffic flow makes an enjoyable street.