York, an historic city, is one of the most charming spots in England, offering an array of activities like exploring the city walls, York Minster, and the quaint Shambles. Additionally, the city boasts numerous fantastic pubs worth discovering. Here’s a guide to some of the best pubs in York.
I’ve been visiting York for years, and I’ve explored many of these pubs. Some of the best ones are along the River Ouse, where you can relax with a refreshing drink or enjoy some traditional pub food while watching the world go by.
You’ll find some of the best pubs in York city center, along with spots known for delicious pub food and lovely beer gardens. With so many excellent pubs around, you’re never far from a perfect place to grab a pint and a bite to eat.
After many years of eating and drinking around York, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite pubs based on food quality, service, location, authentic pub atmosphere, the variety of ales on tap, and customer reviews (to ensure it’s not just my personal opinion). Here are my top 15 picks.
Choosing the best pub in York is tough because there are many great options. However, my personal favorite is the Kings Arms, thanks to its prime riverside location and excellent beer garden. It offers a great selection of ales, ciders, and wines at affordable prices—pints start as low as £3.20. Established in the 1890s, this pub has a cozy feel with an open fire in winter. Note that it has a no-phone policy, which I find helps you enjoy the ambiance without distractions. While it doesn’t serve full meals, it offers fantastic bar snacks.
The Lowther, situated by the river, advertises itself as York’s favorite pub, and it’s easy to see why. It serves interesting pizzas, homemade burgers, salads, sandwiches, and tapas—all reasonably priced with mains under £10. The chicken kiev pizza and seafood linguine are must-tries. It also has an extensive drinks menu and offers both indoor and outdoor dining. At night, the place livens up with music across its two bars.
For craft beer lovers, the Brew York Tap Room is the go-to spot, with over 20 craft beers brewed on-site and a range of ciders and wines. Located in a renovated warehouse with funky murals, it offers Japanese street food to complement your drinks. There’s also an on-site shop and the option to tour the brewery. A beer garden, a Sunday pub quiz, and a pet-friendly policy make it one of York’s top pubs.
The Phoenix Inn is a homey pub with a beer garden overlooking the city walls. It serves several local ales and has a charming, unpretentious atmosphere without gaming machines or loud TVs. Although it doesn’t offer food, there are plenty of nearby dining options.
On Bishopthorpe Road, The Angel on the Green is another excellent pub known for its ales, wines, and extensive pizza menu. It also hosts open mic nights and live music, offering lively entertainment on weekends.
The Eagle and Child, in a grade II listed building from 1640, serves up delicious food using fresh, local ingredients. It’s a particularly good spot for Sunday lunch with options like roasted Yorkshire Dales pork belly. Although the menu is slightly more expensive, the quality of food and historic ambiance make it worth it.
The Walmgate Ale House combines a cozy pub atmosphere with a French restaurant. Housed in a 17th-century building, it offers homely French cooking, local ales, ciders, and wines. Though pricier, the food’s quality makes it a worthwhile dining experience.
The Fat Badger, located in a Georgian building next to the city walls, is known for its secret gin garden, cozy atmosphere, and excellent cocktails. It offers traditional pub classics and comfortable rooms for rent. The garden provides views of York Minster and is pleasant year-round thanks to outdoor heaters.
The Blue Bell is York’s smallest pub, featuring two small rooms and a homely vibe. It recently won CAMRA’s 2022 Pub of the Year. Dating back to 1798, it retains its original decoration and offers a large selection of ales. Although it doesn’t have a food menu, it partners with a local butcher to offer delicious pork pies.
The Walnut Tree in Heworth is a traditional pub with a large beer garden. It serves hearty British dishes like fish and chips, burgers, and Sunday roasts, making it a great spot for a meal.
The Habit, a pub and café with a roof terrace, live music, and open mic nights, offers a menu of burgers, breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches. It’s a lively spot featuring art from local artists and a rotating selection of guest ales.
The medieval House of Trembling Madness offers an extensive ale collection in unique surroundings. It serves hearty local dishes such as the Yorkshire Platter and Yorkshire Rarebit with unusual décor to match.
Ye Olde Starre Inn, York’s oldest pub, dates back to the mid-16th century. Known for its history and three outdoor terraces, it’s said to be haunted. It serves traditional pub classics like pie and mash and fish and chips.
Pivni, an award-winning real ale bar close to the Shambles, is perfect for a romantic evening. Housed in a 16th-century townhouse, it offers a wide selection of craft beers and an old-world ambiance.
The Fleece in nearby Bishop Wilton is ideal for those seeking a country pub experience. It has a large beer garden and serves a varied menu, including locally sourced scampi and steaks. It even hosts a beer and gin festival each June.
Yorkshire is also known for its famous breweries, including Samuel Smith’s Brewery, John Smith’s Brewery, and Black Sheep Brewery. You can find their ales in many of York’s top pubs.
So, whether you’re looking for riverside views, cozy atmospheres, or a lively nightlife, York has a pub to suit every occasion. From the Kings Arms to the House of Trembling Madness, make sure to explore as many as possible to truly experience the best of York’s pub scene.
