The area of North Street lay within the civilian settlement of Roman Eboracum.

In the early 1700s, a steam flour mill was established on the street, while in 1788, a private staith was built for better access to the river.

Around this time, some larger houses were built on the west side of the street, including in 1776 that of the architect Peter Atkinson.

Most of the buildings on the river side of the street were demolished, some dating back to the 17th-century, and were replaced by the Viking Hotel and a riverside walk.

[3][8][6] The road runs north from the junction of Micklegate, Skeldergate and Bridge Street.