Our favourite York Pubs: Pints, History, and Plenty of Pub-Hopping Potential
Surly the biggest Anime shop in Yorkshire - here is all you need to know
York: the city where history and hops collide. Whether you’re here for the medieval charm, the Minster, or just to see how many pints you can responsibly enjoy in a day, York’s pub scene is second to none. Thanks to the European Bar Guide’s glowing review, it’s now official—York knows how to pour a proper pint. So, lace up your walking shoes, loosen your belt, and let’s hit the town!
Let’s start at the Iconic Blue Bell
First stop? The Blue Bell on Fossgate, a Grade II listed gem that’s more pub than pub quiz. This tiny spot is packed with charm, top-notch ales, and a no-nonsense attitude. (House rules include no phones, no loud groups, and definitely no nonsense!) It recently earned a spot in Europe’s Top 50 Pubs list, so enjoy your pint and soak up the atmosphere—this is pub perfection.
The Black Swan: Ghosts and Good Times
Next, head over to the Black Swan, a historic inn with a reputation for being one of York’s most haunted pubs. Don’t let the potential specters put you off, though—the beer selection is fantastic, the roaring fireplace is perfect for chilly afternoons, and the vibe is pure Yorkshire. Order an ale, settle into a dark wooden nook, and keep an eye out for any unexplained happenings.
The Golden Ball: A Community Classic
Over to The Golden Ball, a cozy community-owned pub that’s as authentic as it gets. This is the kind of place where locals chat like old friends, the beer is impeccably kept, and the atmosphere is effortlessly welcoming. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local music session or their fab pub quiz—because what’s better than a pint with a soundtrack or quiz questions?
The Ackhorne: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away on St. Martin’s Lane, The Ackhorne is York’s best-kept secret. Its snug interiors, garden seating, and stellar beer lineup make it a favorite for those in the know. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather, enjoy a quiet pint, and reflect on why you didn’t know about this place sooner. It’s also rumoured to do the best Sunday Lunch in York - But you will need to book way in advance.
The Swan: A Bishy Road Classic Boozer
If proper boozer on Bishy Road then this is the place. It’s a classic pub that’s known for its relaxed vibe, great selection of cask ales, and occasional live music. Grab a seat outside if the weather’s good and you can sun yourself in the pub garden.
The York Tap: A Grand Finale
Wrap up your tour at The York Tap, conveniently located near the train station (because you might need it after this lineup). Housed in a beautifully restored Edwardian building, this pub offers an impressive range of cask ales and craft beers. With its grand decor and buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to toast to a day well spent.
Why York?
Because York isn’t just about cobblestones and chocolate shops—it’s a masterclass in pub culture. From historic haunts to modern beer havens, there’s something for every kind of drinker. Plus, all that walking between pubs totally counts as exercise.
Final Cheers
York’s pub scene isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the stories, the history, and the chance to soak up the city’s character one pint at a time. So, grab your friends, plot your route, and dive into a day of pints.
If you are coming to York to sample the beer and a few pubs you may well need need a place to stay, so just visit our website www.houseofyork.org and book:
- one of our homes for up to six people
- two of our homes for up to 12 people
- or all three together for up to 18 people
Rather conveniently, all our houses are next door to each other!
Want to read more for your next visit to York?
Then download a free copy of our book York Local Knowledge Must-do Top Tens & the vouchers to get them for less where you will discover the historic UK city of York like a local with tips, top tens, and guidance on where to find the best discounts and vouchers, so you can experience it all without breaking the bank!
You can download it for free from the Apple iBooks Store here
You can download it for free from the Google Play Books Store here
This isn’t your average guidebook—it’s a laugh-out-loud, down-to-earth companion, packed with top-ten lists covering everything from essential attractions and hidden gems to entertainment, dining spots, walks, tours, festivals, and shopping, all enriched with a local’s insider knowledge.
With insights, amusing anecdotes, and a sprinkling of puns and dad jokes, Alistair’s love letter to York will help you see the city in a whole new way. Grab a copy and start planning the York adventure you didn’t know you were missing!
With over 240 pages, this guide is ideal for families and groups of friends planning a trip to York and includes:
Up-to-date information on everything in the ever-changing city of York—this is the 2025 edition.
Top ten lists of York’s best tourist attractions, entertainment spots, food and drink, walks, tours, festivals, and independent shops.
Beautiful photography accompanying every recommendation.
Answers to visitors’ top questions, from “Where’s the best place for ice cream?” to “Where can I find a great takeaway curry?”
Recommendations on where locals go for up-to-date information about York.
The best places to stay, from five-star hotels to holiday homes and houseboats.
Details on where to find discounts and vouchers for York restaurants, attractions, and experiences.
Want to hear a great podcast about York?
A fab podcast for tourists and locals looking to find out more about York History, must do York Top 10's and money saving tips to do it all for less.
Just search your podcast app for York Must Do Top 10s or click on this link for the show on apple podcast here
Book one of our Holiday Homes for your next trip to York
Are you looking for a great place to stay for your next trip to York. All 3 of our holiday homes are next door to each other which means you can hire them individually for up to 6 people or together for up to 12 (107 & 109 together) or even 18 people (Spencer House & 107 & 109 together).
To check availability and book just visit www.houseofyork.org
We pride ourselves on being couples and family friendly and we try to take any of the stress out of your stay so you can focus on enjoying yourselves and magnificent York.