If you’re looking to settle in a peaceful spot just outside the city, Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe offer the perfect balance of village charm and city convenience. Nestled to the south of York, these two well-established neighbourhoods are among the most sought-after villages near York city centre – and for good reason.
In this local area guide, we’ll walk you through what it’s like to live in Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe, from schools and transport to local amenities and property types. Whether you’re house-hunting, downsizing, or thinking about letting, this is everything you need to know.
Where are Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe?
Both villages sit on the southern fringe of York – only three to four miles from the historic city centre.
- Bishopthorpe lies just west of the River Ouse, around 10 minutes by car or bike into town. It’s known for its leafy streets, riverside walks, and being home to the Archbishop of York’s palace.
- Copmanthorpe is slightly further west, just off the A64. It has a thriving local community and excellent links for commuters heading to York, Leeds or further afield.
These two areas are surrounded by green space but remain firmly connected to the city. That makes them ideal for people who want village life without sacrificing convenience.
Why choose a village near York?
York is consistently rated one of the best places to live in the UK. But not everyone wants to live right in the centre.
Villages like Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe offer:
- Easier parking and quieter streets
- Strong community spirit
- Access to excellent schools
- Local pubs, parks, and playing fields
- Better value for space and gardens
They’re perfect for families, professionals, retirees and anyone looking for a slower pace without going remote.
Bishopthorpe: a riverside retreat with a royal touch
Bishopthorpe has long been one of York’s most desirable suburbs. It blends old Yorkshire charm with modern amenities – and has a strong sense of community.
What’s here?
- Bishopthorpe Road (Bishy Road) is just a short drive away, full of independent shops, cafes and delis.
- The village itself has convenience stores, a post office, hairdressers, and a couple of cosy pubs.
- You’ll also find tennis courts, playing fields, and plenty of green walks along the river.
The historic Bishopthorpe Palace and riverside setting give the village a sense of heritage and calm.
Copmanthorpe: family-friendly with great access
If you’re after space, schools and quick commuting, Copmanthorpe is a strong contender. It has a slightly larger footprint than Bishopthorpe and offers a more suburban feel – but still retains village character.
What’s here?
- A bustling Co-op, pharmacy, GP, vet, and local businesses
- A primary school rated Good by Ofsted
- Several local sports clubs and recreation fields
- Direct access to the A64 and York’s ring road
Copmanthorpe suits families looking for more room – and those who need quick links to York or Leeds.
Bishopthorpe property for sale: what to expect
You’ll find a good mix of properties in Bishopthorpe, including:
- Charming terraced cottages close to the village centre
- Three- and four-bed semis and detached homes built in the mid-20th century
- Newer builds and converted barns on the outskirts
Prices here are higher than average for York – but you get what you pay for: space, peace, and a strong community.
Typical prices (2026):
| Property type | Average price |
| 2-bed terrace | £290,000 – £320,000 |
| 3-bed semi-detached | £350,000 – £400,000 |
| 4-bed detached | £450,000 – £600,000 |
Properties in Bishopthorpe don’t often come up – and when they do, they’re snapped up fast.
Copmanthorpe schools and transport
Copmanthorpe is well-equipped for families, especially those with young children.
- Copmanthorpe Primary School is rated Good and has a strong reputation locally.
- For secondary, many pupils attend Millthorpe School or Archbishop Holgate’s – both reachable by school bus.
Getting around:
- Buses into York run regularly, with journey times around 20 minutes.
- The A64 provides easy car access to Leeds, the A1 and beyond.
- York station is less than 15 minutes away, with direct trains to London, Manchester and Newcastle.
If you’re commuting, Copmanthorpe is one of the most convenient villages near York city centre.
What’s the community like?
Both Bishopthorpe and Copmanthorpe have active village communities.
Expect:
- Local newsletters and Facebook groups
- Seasonal events like summer fairs, carol services and sports days
- Volunteers maintaining community gardens and helping neighbours
These are places where people stop to chat, children play safely, and newcomers are welcomed in.
Who lives here?
You’ll find a broad mix of residents in both villages:
- Families who want to stay in York but need more space
- Retirees looking for somewhere calm but connected
- Professionals commuting into York or Leeds
- Buyers moving from the city centre for a quieter pace
These aren’t transient areas – they’re places people come to stay.
Green space, leisure and things to do
While neither village has its own train station or major shopping centre, that’s part of the appeal.
You’ll enjoy:
- Riverside walks in Bishopthorpe
- Copmanthorpe’s community orchard and playgrounds
- Proximity to Knavesmire, York Racecourse, and Rowntree Park
- Easy trips into town for museums, galleries, and independent shops
You really do get the best of both worlds – outdoor space and city culture.
Letting opportunities and long-term investment
If you’re a landlord, both villages offer strong long-term investment prospects.
- Properties tend to let quickly to professionals or relocating families
- Rental yields are solid, and tenant quality is generally high
- Demand stays steady year-round thanks to the location
Looking to let a property in Bishopthorpe or Copmanthorpe?
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Final thoughts: is Bishopthorpe or Copmanthorpe right for you?
Both villages have a lot in common – a calm pace, good schools, and strong transport links. But each has its own character:
- Choose Bishopthorpe if you love river walks, village charm, and being slightly closer to the action.
- Choose Copmanthorpe if you want space, family-friendly facilities, and faster links to the A64 and Leeds.
Either way, you’ll find a welcoming community, high-quality housing, and a location that makes life just that little bit easier.
Looking for a home in one of York’s southern villages?
Hunters York is here to help. With deep local knowledge, decades of experience, and a human-first approach, we can support you through every step of buying, selling or letting.
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