Ginnel

A ginnel (also known by various regional names) is a narrow passageway, alleyway, or lane, typically found between buildings, often providing access to backyards, gardens, or other areas that are not directly accessible from the main street. These often pedestrian-only routes are frequently enclosed on both sides by walls, fences, or buildings, and can vary in width, surface material, and level of maintenance. They are a quintessential feature of many older towns and cities, offering a glimpse into the hidden network of spaces that connect communities. They can also be used as shortcuts, or to get around obstacles. Ginnels reflect the urban landscape in many areas, particularly in Northern England.

Ginnel meaning with examples

• The children, giggling, raced through the ginnel, a shortcut from their school to the sweet shop. The narrow passage was bricked and dimly lit, adding to the thrill of their daily adventure. The scent of freshly baked bread wafted from a bakery's back entrance, enticing them to linger, but the allure of sweets was stronger.
• Lost in the maze of backstreets, the tourist consulted his map, hoping to find a ginnel to bypass the crowded market square. He squeezed between two tall buildings and entered the narrow passage. This ginnel led him past a series of quaint courtyards and offered a quieter, more authentic perspective of the city.
• The artist found inspiration in the forgotten ginnels of the old town. Their weathered brick walls, overgrown with ivy, whispered stories of generations past. He would set up his easel and capture the essence of the ginnel's raw beauty on canvas, focusing on the play of light and shadow.
• The residents worked together to transform the neglected ginnel into a community garden. They planted flowers and vegetables, creating a vibrant space where neighbors could meet and socialize. It became a source of pride and a welcome change from the area's typical neglect.