Thomas Percy and The Pavement bronze plaque

This bronze commemorative plaque records: The Pavement So called as early as 1378. Perhaps one of the first medieval streets in the City to have a paved way. It was the scene of public markets and gatherings, proclamations and punishments. Thomas Percy, Earl of Northumberland, was beheaded here on 22nd August 1572. At the restoration of King Charles II in 1660 the effigy of Oliver Cromwell was hung and later burnt here. Recorded plaque organisation: York Civic Trust.

Earl Thomas Percy, also known as the Earl of Northumberland, was beheaded on The Pavement in 1572 for his involvement in the Rising of the North against Queen Elizabeth I; The Pavement has been a site of significant public events since at least 1378, including markets, proclamations, and punishments.