Application made for Thor’s Tipi to return to Parliament St

The company behind the pop-up bar has applied to City of York Council to use a 626m2 site outside M&S for the next five years.

This follows a similar application submitted in 2024 for Thor’s Tipi to use part of Museum Gardens every Christmas for five years, an application which has yet to be determined.

In the planning documents, Amanda Monaghan of Fabler & Co said: “Thor’s is more than just a pop-up bar. It’s a brand, an event, a venue and a destination.”

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Amanda also told the council her company has successfully operated bars and events since 2015, “believing that unique offerings can boost city centre growth and revitalisation.”

The application is for ‘Thor’s York Summer,’ she continued, on the 626m2 site managed by Make it York at 40-45 Parliament Street.

Her proposal seeks a giant Nordic tipi, terrace area with seating, real trees, fire pits and lighting. There would also be a street food truck and pop-up park.

The application seeks to have the tipi and related features on site for 16 weeks a year, from mid-May to early September. In 2026, this would be from May 16 to September 6.

The application is for five years due to the costs of the planning application and of running the venture.

Amanda said: “We have operated for a similar timescale on this space for the past 4 summers. This length of time is important in order to recoup investments made in the structure, also driving footfall into the city centre.”

She continued: “The proposal will rejuvenate York Parliament Street, bringing the pedestrianised space to life.

“We expect Thor’s Tipi to be a driver of footfall, therefore increasing footfall for the businesses surrounding the space.”

The venue would open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 10pm and from 11am to 6pm on a Sunday.

The application said noise management measures would ensure the venue did not disturb residents or businesses. This meant live music would only be on a weekend from 4pm to 6pm. Ambient music would be from 11am to 9pm and at lower levels from 8.30pm.

Safety would be ensured by five CCTVs and security provided by Eboracum.

The Pop-up Park would encourage families, she continued, creating a ‘well rounded offer,’ with open mic, DJ evenings and craft clubs. Food vendors would partner with local musicians and local ales would be offered. The proposal overall, would also create jobs.

The application concluded: “Thor’s Tipi York Parliament Street has been developed in order to create a welcoming space for residents, families and visitors to York.

“By activating the space with a family-friendly venue, we hope to increase footfall into the city centre and a reason to bring communities together in that area- giving the space a sense of purpose.”

“Thor’s Tipi Bar is a pop-up temporary venue, filled with colour, vibrancy and energy. We will host weekly events encouraging dwell time in the area.

“It will be a welcome break for families and shoppers- a green space in the city centre for everyone to enjoy.”

City of York Council has yet to determine the application.