The best pubs in York
The Best Pubs in York City Centre
The historic city of York is brimming with independent restaurants, cosy bars and pubs to pick from.
Whether it’s a pint paired with a wood-fired pizza, a micro-pub with expertly crafted cocktails or a traditional inn with proper craft beer, there’s something for everyone.
But we’ve done the hard work for you, don’t worry. We have compiled a list that truly showcases everything York has to offer.
The Fat Badger
Sat within the beautiful and historic city walls stands one of Yorkshire’s most-loved inns, The Fat Badger. Their secret beer garden is an ideal pitstop in between sightseeing and shopping, and where better to soak up the summer sun than with the view of the York Minster?
It’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch or romantic dinner under the stars. Dogs are also welcome at The Fat Badger.
2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH
The Wenlock Arms
The Wenlock Arms is a traditional Yorkshire inn that pairs cask ales with comforting gastropub classics.
Their spacious country pub feels inviting and homely, providing the perfect backdrop for your favourite comfort foods. From Crispy Pork Belly to Trimmed Rack of Lamb, it won’t disappoint.
It features a gorgeous south-facing beer garden and decking area that is perfect for summer. Dogs are welcome and there is also a children’s menu, making it the perfect pub for all the family to enjoy.
73 Main Street, Wheldrake, York, YO19 6AA
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
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.
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
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
York Tap
Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian railway building right beside York station, it’s a pub that manages to feel both historic and refreshingly modern.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive selection of craft beers, with constantly changing taps showcasing independent breweries alongside plenty of familiar favourites.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it an easy choice whether you’re stopping by for a quick pint before a train, meeting friends for the evening or exploring York’s thriving beer scene.
Now we’ve got you covered with our top pubs in the city of York. If you’re planning on going a little further afield, check out our favourite pubs with walks in Yorkshire.
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Written by
11/09/2026