York’s Top Beer Gardens for 2025
Your Ultimate Guide to Alfresco Pints
As the sun graces York with its warm presence, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s finest beer gardens. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s our list of must-visit spots to enjoy a refreshing drink outdoors.
The Fox – York’s Largest Beer Garden
Situated on Holgate Road, The Fox boasts what is claimed to be York’s largest beer garden. This blue plaque heritage inn offers ample space to relax and enjoy a pint, making it a worthwhile trip outside the city center.
168 Holgate Rd, Holgate, York YO24 4DQ
Grays Court – Historic Elegance
Nestled near York Minster, Grays Court offers a beer garden with stunning views of the Minster and city walls. It’s an ideal spot for a tranquil drink amidst historic surroundings.
Chapter House St, York YO1 7JH
The Habit – Rooftop Views
On Goodramgate, The Habit’s rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views of York Minster. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a pint with a panoramic backdrop.
40 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF
Guy Fawkes Inn – Historic Charm
Directly opposite York Minster, the Guy Fawkes Inn is steeped in history. This 4-star rated inn offers a cozy beer garden, perfect for evening drinks with a historical backdrop.
25 High Petergate, York YO1 7HP
The Lamb & Lion Inn – City Walls Views
Located near Bootham Bar, The Lamb & Lion Inn offers a beer garden with views of York’s ancient city walls. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the city’s history.
2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH
The Black Swan – Traditional Pub Garden
On Peasholme Green, The Black Swan boasts a traditional beer garden. Known for its historic charm and regular folk music nights, it’s a favorite among locals.
23 Peasholme Green, York YO1 7PR
The Minster Inn – Riverside Retreat
Tucked away on Marygate, The Minster Inn offers a quaint beer garden near the River Ouse. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful pint away from the city’s hustle.
24 Marygate, York YO30 7BH
The Swan – Community Vibe
Located on Bishopthorpe Road, The Swan’s beer garden is known for its community feel and regular events. It’s a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
16 Bishopthorpe Rd, York YO23 1JJ
The Phoenix Inn – Hidden Gem
Just off Micklegate, The Phoenix Inn offers a secluded beer garden. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink in a more intimate setting.
75 George St, York YO1 9PT
So go on – treat yourself to a refreshing pint on the next sunny day and don’t forget if you need a place to stay, then 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.