York's Blue Bell Pub Scores a Spot in Europe’s Top 50 Pubs
Find out why we think its a winner
York’s Blue Bell pub has just clinched a coveted spot in Europe’s Top 50 Pubs according to the prestigious Europe Bar Guide, and honestly, we’re not even surprised. This place isn’t just a pub—it’s an institution. With its cozy charm, historic vibes, and beer that tastes like victory, the Blue Bell is now officially one of the best places on the continent to enjoy a pint.
What Makes the Blue Bell Special?
For starters, it’s a Grade II listed building with more character than most TV dramas. Its wood-paneled walls, snug seating, and timeless atmosphere transport you back to an era when good conversation and great beer were all you needed. No Wi-Fi? No problem—this is a place where people still chat, laugh, and occasionally argue about whose round it is.
And then there’s the beer. The Blue Bell serves up an ever-changing selection of top-quality ales, many of them locally brewed. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or just something you can confidently pronounce, they’ve got you covered.
Europe Loves It—And So Do We
Making it into Europe Bar Guide’s Top 50 is no small feat. The competition includes sleek cocktail bars in Paris, buzzing beer halls in Munich, and pubs so trendy they probably charge extra for ice. But the Blue Bell, with its unpretentious charm and commitment to doing the simple things right, proved that sometimes less really is more.
A Pub with Rules (and That’s a Good Thing)
Part of the Blue Bell’s appeal is its firm but fair house rules. The pub doesn’t do rowdy crowds, loud music, or phone zombies. It’s all about keeping things traditional, which means you can actually hear yourself think—or better yet, hear the bartender recommend your next pint.
Why You Should Visit
Because how often do you get to sip a pint in one of Europe’s best pubs? Whether you’re a local who hasn’t been in a while (shame on you!) or a visitor looking to soak up authentic York vibes, the Blue Bell is the place to be.
Final Pint
The Blue Bell’s new accolade is more than just a win for the pub—it’s a win for York. So grab a friend, grab a pint, and toast to the fact that our little city is home to one of the best pubs in Europe. And don’t forget to mind your manners while you’re there and stick to the rules—it’s a classy joint, after all.
If you are coming to York in search of a great pint and a few good pubs to drink it in and need a place to stay then check out our 3 holiday homes at www.houseofyork.org where you can 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!
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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.