The best pubs in York

The Kings Arms

So, if you’re looking for the best pubs in York to watch boats pass on the River Ouse, then look no further. The Kings Arms has been a York staple for over a century now.

This no-fuss pub does the basics better than most. Its prime riverside location is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. It brings in crowds on the warmer days, so you’ll be lucky to get a seat outside.

3 King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN

You may also like our guide to the Best Beer Gardens in York…

House of Trembling Madness

For the past 170 years, 14 Lendal has housed the old saddlery & harness maker, Robson & Cooper, and so it’s only fitting that an existing York “institution” takes up the reins of this magnificent Georgian building.

The Trembling Madness crew has managed to transform this neglected building into a magnificent craft beer Mansion.

With candlelit cosy tables in their taxidermy room, and larger tables for group gatherings, this pub is brimming with character.

14 Lendal, York, YO1 8AA 

Angel on the Green

The Angel on the Green is a well-known and well-loved institution for locals and those popping down to Bishopthorpe Road – one of our favourite foodie streets in the city.

Serving a delicious brunch and bagels in the morning, come the evening, they’ll be shaking up smooth cocktails to wash down artisan pizzas from RadPizza Co.

Visit for a cosy evening with live music and DJs.

2-4 Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 1JJ

Pivni

Just off the historic Little Shambles and hidden away from Shambles Market sits this stunning three-storey 16th-century free house serving real ale and world beer.

And lots of it at that, boasting an impressive array of cans and bottles of the best beer around, even multiple gluten-free and alcohol-free ones.

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They’ve also got a carefully curated selection of premium cider, wine and spirits from across the globe. This is truly one of the best pubs in York.

6 Patrick Pool, York YO1 8BB

Eagle and Child

Eagle and Child sits in a beautiful Grade II* listed building that dates back to 1640, with a cosy terrace at the back donned with fairy lights and a great atmosphere.

This timber-framed pub prides itself on its locally sourced produce, making the best in seasonal dishes.

Spread over three floors, they have an assortment of nooks and crannies, both small togethers and large groups who wander in for a pint or two.

9 High Petergate, York YO1 7EN 

Walmgate Ale House

Now, you’ve heard of The Chopping Block and the divine traditional French dishes they make with the best local produce.

Along with one of the best Sunday roasts in York, they carry their love of local produce and fantastic service downstairs at the Walmgate Ale House.

Serving many locally sourced cask and keg beers, cans & bottles. And if you’re peckish, they also make their own bar snacks!

25 Walmgate, York YO1 9TX

The Market Cat

They say it best themselves, “a traditional city centre pub with a modern twist”. It is that and so much more. The Market Cat Stock’s an overwhelming range of craft beer, both cask and keg, the best of sustainable and organic natural wines and 17 gins!

Their tasty Milanese-style pizzas are made fresh every morning using authentic Italian pizza flour. Get yourself down to this contender for one of the best pubs in York.

6 Jubbergate, York YO1 8RT

The Fossgate Social

Fossgate is a bustling street of gorgeous coffee shops, delis and independent restaurants to explore.

The Fossgate Social sits at the heart of that. Oozing with independent charm and spirit, this small but perfectly formed bar is serving up cocktails, craft beer and coffee all year round.

Their cocktails are a highlight, with the menu of specials changing frequently. Or, opt for a classic spicy marg or espresso martini – they never disappoint.

25 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA

Brew York Tap Room & Beer Hall

Brew York, a renowned independent brewery that creates their own amazing variety of beers is what makes this one of the best pubs in York. This place is extremely passionate about what they do and what they make, hosting many beer festivals, brewery tours and tasting events.

Enjoy any of the 20 lines of craft beer they serve, ciders and wines. Especially their own unique concoctions with everything from a gooseberry fool sour to commemorative Star Wars craft.

Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TT 

Duke of York

Another offering off the historic Shambles. If you are looking for the epitome of a traditional pub setting, then look no further than the Duke of York.

Sitting in the heart of medieval York, this member of the Leeds Brewery family does not disappoint. They pride themselves on the range of their beer selection and on their locally sourced food.

So whether you want to pop in for a pint, grab a bite to eat or simply need to relax for a few hours, this is the spot for you.

Kings Square, York YO1 8BH 

The Phoenix Inn

The Phoenix Inn is tucked away next to the city walls, and remains an unspoilt and independently-run little pub.

Enjoy a pint of any of their five real ales on tap alongside a fantastic pork pie. In the summer, you can take advantage of the paved, sun-trap beer garden or sit peacefully in front of the log fire during the winter.

All year round, The Phoenix stands proud as one of the best pubs in York city centre.

75 George St, York YO1 9PT

The Hop

The Hop is known for its commitment to the atmosphere, with some of the best local live music around. They do this by ensuring there really is something for everyone, from traditional real ales, an impressive range of spirits, artisan gins and wines.

This pub is perfect for larger group gatherings, with plenty of space and large tables to choose from. If you’re feeling peckish, they also serve up stonebaked pizzas – delicious Italian food in York.

All of this and its beautiful, authentic interior truly make this one of the best pubs in York.

11-12 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA

The Golden Slipper

Another Grade II listed pub in York is non-other than The Golden Slipper, which was originally built as a house around 1500. After several different owners and pub names, it was finally named The Golden Slipper in the 20th-century.

There are many stories of the pub being haunted, with a story dating to 1984 when a medieval children’s shoe was found during construction work in the pub.

20 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LG

Ye Olde Starre Inne

The Ye Olde Starre Inne on Stonegate is claimed to be the oldest pub in York, with a long-serving license that dates back to 1644. In 1733, an agreement was made to hang a sign to advertise the pub, and has been on this street ever since.

In 1954, the pub was Grade II listed and since has become a popular drinking spot for locals and tourists alike. With a charming interior, real ales and delicious comfort food, you simply can’t fault one of the best pubs in York.

40 Stonegate, York YO1 8AS

The Old White Swan

On Goodramgate is a pub that dates back to the 16th Century, The Old White Swan. With a very colourful history,  it is one of the oldest pubs in York. T

heir tempting pub dishes are everything you’d expect to find and enjoy, from old favourites like a Sunday roast to new seasonal mains. They also pride themselves on having a well-crafted selection of cask ales, sweet spirits and delightful cocktails.

80 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF

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