All of its buildings are listed, many dating to the 18th century,[1] although the street is significantly older.

[3][4] The road was pedestrianised by 1370, when posts blocked traffic through the gate.

By 1470, the street was known as Bookland Lane, at which time, it was the location of a public drinking fountain.

This referred to the printing industry which was based in the area, serving in particular the clergy of the Minster.

The trade boomed after 1662, when Charles II of England made York one of only four English cities permitted to publish books.