Could you share best food pubs in York?

I’ve been visiting the city for years, and that includes many of the York pubs. Some of the best are to be found along the River Ouse, where you can sit and watch the world go by with a pint of something refreshing or a bite of traditional pub grub.

Find out about the best pubs in York city center, the best pub food in York, and some of the best pubs in York with beer gardens. One thing’s for sure, with so many wonderful pubs around the city, you won’t have far to go to find the perfect place for a pint and bite to eat.

After eating and drinking my way around York for many years, I’ve put up this list of my favorite pubs in the city based on the quality of food, service, location, authentic pub vibe, the real ales on tap, my personal opinion, and customer reviews (so that it’s not just based solely on my opinion).

I’ve eaten at many more York pubs in that time, but I’ve narrowed this list down to 15 based on those criteria. If you’re looking for authentic local dishes and some great restaurants in the city and beyond, be sure to check out this foodies guide to Yorkshire too.

It’s difficult to pick the best pub in York as there are so many contenders. I’ve chosen my personal favorite, the Kings Arms, due to its prime location on the river and its excellent beer garden. It offers a great selection of ales, ciders, and wines, and is one of the cheapest pubs in York.

With pints for as little as £3.20, (in the south you’ll rarely find a pint under £5), this is a great place to come for a few drinks on a sunny afternoon or evening. The pub dates back to the 1890s so has a real homely feel to it, and there’s an open fire in winter which makes it a cozy escape from the cold.

The Kings Arms has a no-phone policy which some people don’t like, however, I think it’s excellent to be able to unplug for a few hours and just enjoy the ambiance without distractions. The pub doesn’t serve food but has a fantastic selection of bar snacks to ward off hunger if you’re feeling peckish.

Address: The Kings Arms, 3 Kings Staith, York, YO1 9SNPhone: +44 (0)1904 659435Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm, Mon-Sat, 12 pm-10:30 pm, SunMust-Try Items: Samual Smiths Old Brewery BitterAverage Cost: £3.20-£5.00 per pint

The Lowther bills itself as York’s favorite pub, but don’t just take its word for it. This central riverside place is one of the best pubs in York for food and serves some interesting pizzas, (the chicken kiev is a must-try), homemade burgers, salads, sandwiches, and tapas. What’s more, the extensive menu is also very reasonably priced.

With mains under £10, this is the perfect place to take the whole family for a sumptuous feast in beautiful surroundings. As a lover of Spanish cuisine, I love the menu here and highly recommend the seafood linguine. There’s also an extensive drinks menu with local beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails to choose from.

There’s both indoor and outdoor dining available overlooking the river and at night things liven up with music across the two bars. So, whether you’re looking for a quiet afternoon pint or a pumping evening, the Lowther should definitely be on your list.

Address: 8 Cumberland Street, York, YO1 9SWPhone: +44 (0)1904 622987Operating Hours: 12 pm-1 am, Sun-Thu, 12 pm-2 am, Fri-Sat Must-Try Items: Chicken Kiev Pizza, Seafood Linguine, Lowther PlatterAverage Cost: £3-£4 per starter, £9-£13 per main, £5 per pintWebsite: thelowther.co.uk

Real ale aficionados should head straight for the Brew York Tap Room which has over 20 craft beers brewed on-site. They also offer a fantastic selection of ciders and wines too. This is one of York’s more hip venues and the tap room is located in an old warehouse with exposed brickwork and funky murals.

The tap room serves up a tasty selection of Japanese street food dishes to munch on while you drink, with a menu that includes ramen, bao buns, rice bowls, and more. There’s an onsite shop that sells Brew York beers and merch, and it’s even possible to take a tour of the brewery.

There’s a beer garden out the back, a pub quiz every Sunday, (well-behaved) dogs are always welcome, and children are allowed in the tap room until 8 pm. This is definitely one of the top pubs in York and somewhere I like to head to on a Friday or Saturday night.

Address: Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TTPhone: +44 (0)1904 848448Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Tue-Sat, 12 pm-9 pm, SunMust-Try Items: Big Eagle IPA, Brass Castle Jack An’ t’ Beanstalk, Prawn Katsu CurryAverage Cost: £2-£7 per starter, £7-£12.50 per main, £6 per pintWebsite: brewyork.co.uk

The Phoenix Inn is one of the most homely pubs in York with an open fire, a beer garden overlooking the city walls, and an unpretentious air devoid of gaming machines and blaring TVs. This is one of the best pubs in York city center and is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

The pub is known for serving local ales and always has at least five on tap. The building dates back to the 18th Century and is the last surviving original pub inside the city walls. They don’t serve food, but there are plenty of places nearby to eat before dropping in for a pint.

Address: 75 George Street, York, YO1 9PTPhone: +44 (0)1904 656401Operating Hours: 4 pm-11 pm, Mon-Thu, 3 pm-11 pm, Fri, 2 pm-11 pm, Sat-Sun Must-Try Items: Landlord, Black Sheep, Marston MoorAverage Cost: £4-£5 per pintWebsite: www.phoneixinnyork.co.uk

York’s trendy Bishopthorpe Road (Bishy to locals, and one of the best places to stay in York) is the place to go to discover some of the best shops in the city. It’s also home to The Angel on the Green, one of the best pubs in York.

Here, you’ll find some excellent ales and wines, plus an extensive pizza menu. With all pizzas under £10, this is a great place to come for a bite to eat (I recommend the prosciutto funghi) and a glass of something pleasant.

The Angel on the Green also has open mic nights and live music, so it’s a great place to visit for some lively weekend entertainment.

Address: 2 Bishopthorpe Road, York, YO23 1JJPhone: +44 (0)1904 866073Operating Hours: 4 pm-11 pm, Wed-Fri, 12 pm-11 pm, Sat-Sun Must-Try Items: Prosciutto Funghi Pizza, Rocket, Parmesan and Balsamic Salad, Ainsty Blonde AleAverage Cost: £3.50-£4.95 per starter, £5.95-£9.50 per main, £4-£6 per pintWebsite: www.angelonthe.green

This gorgeous old pub is in a grade II listed building that dates back to 1640. The space stretches over three floors and there’s outside seating at the back. The Eagle and Child is famed for its fresh, local ingredients and is one of the best pubs to eat at in York.

This is one of the best places to come for a Sunday lunch. The roasted Yorkshire Dales pork belly (and Yorkshire puds of course) are to die for. The menu is a little more expensive than other pubs on this list but totally worth the extra for the caliber of food on offer, the ambiance, and the historic surroundings.

Address: 9 High Petergate, York, YO1 7ENPhone: +44 (0)1904 631536Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Mon-Wed, 12 pm-12 am, Thu-Sat, 12 pm-10:30 pm, SunMust-Try Items: Roasted Pork Belly, Fish and Chips, Leeds Steak and Ale PieAverage Cost: £6-£7.50 per starter, £14-£21 per main, £5 per pintWebsite: eagleandchildyork.co.uk

The Walmgate Ale House is a cozy pub with an attached French restaurant. Along with the Eagle and Child, it offers some of the best pub food in York. The pub is located in a listed 17th Century building which also doubles as the headquarters of the York Food and Drink Festival (so you know you’re in good hands).

If, like me you love homely French cooking then this is the place to go for a special dinner. There’s a great selection of local ales, ciders, and wines.

The menu is a little pricier than other options but a visit is worth every penny for the quality.

Address: 25 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TXPhone: +44 (0)1904 629222Operating Hours: 5 pm-11 pm, Wed, 12 pm-11 pm, Thu-SunMust-Try Items: Confit Duck Leg with Cherry Glaze, Yorkshire Pudding with Pulled Beef, Roasted CauliflowerAverage Cost: £6.50-£8.90 per starter, £15-£23 per main, £5 per pintWebsite: thechoppingblock.co.uk

The Fat Badger (formerly the Lamb and Lion) is truly one of the best pubs in York city center, not least for its secret gin garden, excellent cocktails, selection of beers and wines, and cozy rooms for rent. The pub is located in an old Georgian building adjoining the city walls and has a real homely feel to it.

The garden offers views of York Minster and is a great place to sit at any time of year thanks to the outside heaters. The menu offers lots of traditional pub classics from fish and chips to homemade burgers, steaks, sandwiches, and more. This is definitely one of my favorite places in York – I love the cocktails and ambiance.

Address: 2-4 High Petergate, York, YO1 7 EHPhone: +44 (0)1904 612078Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Mon-SunMust-Try Items: Steak and Landlord Ale Pie, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Slow-Cooked Pork BellyAverage Cost: £4.95 per starter, £13.95-£18.95 per main, £5 per pintWebsite: www.thefatbadgeryork.com

The Blue Bell is the smallest pub in York and comprises just two small rooms. It’s a great place to go if you want a traditional homely pub vibe and it recently won CAMRA’s 2022 pub of the Year, (CAMRA is the Campaign for Real Ale and the most authoritative body on the subject of pubs and beers in the UK).

The building dates back to 1798 and still retains the original decoration from 1903. If you’re looking for a real British pub, then the Blue Bell is certainly the place to go. There’s a large selection of ales on tap and I recommend Timothy Taylor’s Landlord as one of the best.

The Blue Bell doesn’t have a food menu but it’s teamed up with neighborhood butcher Darren to offer locally made pork pies with a side of mustard, brown sauce (a favorite up north), or apple and ale chutney.

Address: 53 Fosgate, York, YO1 9TFPhone: +44 (0)1904 654904Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Mon-SunMust-Try Items: Timothy Tailor’s Landlord, Rudgate Ruby Mild, Pork Pie with English mustardAverage Cost: £9.50 per pie, £4-£5 per pintWebsite: bluebellyork.com

The Walnut Tree is an excellent pub and restaurant in the York suburb of Heworth. You can expect real ales, traditional pub food, one of the largest beer gardens in York, and the warmest of welcomes. The inside has recently undergone a massive refurbishment and is a great place for a pleasant meal.

They serve a great Sunday roast and other traditional British dishes like beer-battered fish and chips, burgers, all-day breakfasts, and curry. If you’re looking for a full belly for great value then be sure to head to the Walnut Tree.

Address: 73 Heworth Village, Heworth, York, YO31 1ANPhone: +44 (0)1904 233083Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm, Sat-Thu, 11 am-12 am, FriMust-Try Items: Hand-battered Cod and Chips, Hunter’s Chicken, Sunday RoastAverage Cost: £10-£15 per main, £4-£6 per pint

The Habit is an excellent pub, bar, and cafe that has a roof terrace, live music every weekend, and an open mic night on Wednesdays. It has a great menu with burgers, all-day breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches to keep your tummy satisfied while you enjoy the entertainment.

The building was once a stonemason’s and a priest’s house and is now one of the top places for a night out in York. It’s a haven for local artists whose work adorns the walls of the bar and is definitely one of the top pubs in York – it’s one of my favorite places for a drink.

You’ll find a bar stocked with regularly changing guest ales as well as craft beers from around the world, (Gamma Ray APA, Jop House 13, and Estrella to name a few). If you’re looking for something a little stronger, then try one of the expertly mixed gin or whisky cocktails.

Address: 40 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LFPhone: +44 (0)1904 611072Operating Hours: 10 pm-12 am, Mon-SunMust-Try Items: Full English Breakfast, Bacon Cheeseburger, Grilled Veg and Halloumi SandwichAverage Cost: £9.50-£12.95 per main, £5 per pintWebsite: thehabityork.co.uk

This interestingly named medieval ale house is one of the quirkier pubs in York. It has one of the most impressive ale collections of any pub in York and these can be enjoyed in unique surroundings with taxidermy and quirky curios. If you like a good Belgian Trappist beer then this is the place to find it.

Food is served all day and the House prides itself on local ingredients and Yorkshire-sized portions (i.e big). Sharing platters are the order of the day with large plates of local meats, cheeses, and other products from around the region. Try the Yorkshire Platter or the Madness Platter.

Address: 48 Stonegate, York, YO1 8ASPhone: +44 (0)1904 289848Operating Hours: 10 am-12 am, Mon-SunMust-Try Items: Yorkshire Platter, Yorkshire Rarebit, Trappist Rochefort No Average Cost: $2-$4 per starter, $6-10 per main, $6 per pintWebsite: www.tremblingmadness.co.uk

Ye Olde Star is York’s oldest pub and dates back to the mid-16th Century. This old timber-framed public house has been serving ales for hundreds of years and is definitely worth a visit for its history. The pub has three outside terraces for al-fresco dining where you can enjoy classics like pie and mash, fish and chips, and burgers.

The Starre was used as a hospital and mortuary during the English Civil War (1642-1651) and some say the pub is haunted by the soldiers that died there, along with a pair of black cats that can supposedly be seen lurking in the shadows.

Whether you believe in ghostly apparitions or not, Ye Olde Starre is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 40 Stonegate, York, YO1 8ASPhone: +44 (0)1904 623063Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm, Mon-Thu, 11 am-12 pm, Fri-Sat, 11 am-10:30 pm, SunMust-Try Items: Beer-battered Cod and Chips, Steak and Ale Pie, Salmon and Cheddar FishcakesAverage Cost: £4.50-£7.25 per starter, £9.95-£16.95 per main, £5 per pint.Website: www.greenking-pubs.co.uk

Pivni is an award-winning real ale and beer house (i.e a pub) close to the Shambles in York city center. This quaint bar is the perfect place for a romantic, candle-lit evening of local beers and ciders and carefully selected wines from around the world.

The bar is located in an old 16th Century townhouse and the old-world ambiance makes this place an absolute joy to visit. Be sure to try some of the craft beers on tap such as those from the Tapped Brew Co, Arbor, and Thornbridge Brewery.

Address: 6 Patrick Pool, York, YO1 8BBPhone: +44 (0)1904 635464Operating Hours: 11:30 am-11pm, Mon-Thu, 11:30 am-11:30 pm, Fri-Sat, 12 pm-11 pm, SunMust-Try Items: Mr Black Coffee Liquer, Slingsby Rhubarb GinAverage Cost: $2-$4 per starter, $6-10 per main, $6 per pintWebsite: pivni.co.uk

The Fleece in nearby Bishop Wilton is one of the best country pubs near York and is very popular with walkers and cyclists. There’s a large beer garden in beautiful, village surroundings and it has an excellent range of beers, ciders, and wines as well as a large food menu.

The menu includes classics like my favorite, scampi, caught in nearby Whitby, steaks, fajitas, and British and European dishes. Each June the Fleece hosts a beer and gin festival, which is well worth popping along to.

The pub also has rooms available if you’re looking for an escape from the city.

Address: 47 Main Street, Bishop Wilton, York, YO42 1RUPhone: +44 (0)1759 368251Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm, Mon-SunMust-Try Items: Whitby Scampi and Chips, Brisket and Ale Pie, King Prawn SizzlerAverage Cost: £4.50-£6.75 per starter, £12.50-£24.50 per main, £4-£6 per pintWebsite: www.thefleeceinn.info

Below, you’ll find a couple of famous brews from Yorkshire.

Samuel Smith’s Brewery in Tadcaster, near York is one of the most famous breweries in the region, and you’ll find many Samuel Smith pubs across York, including my favorite the Kings Arms. There are many to choose from, but the flagship Old Brewery Bitter is a good one to try.

Although no relation to Samuel, John Smiths is another famous Yorkshire brewer and you’ll find these beers in pubs across the city. John Smith’s Original Cask is the one you’ll find in most pubs.

Black Sheep is one of Yorkshire’s best independent breweries. You can find Black Sheep Best Bitter in many of the top pubs around York and this is a must-try in Yorkshire.

Now you know about some of the best pubs in York with beer gardens, for food, ambiance, and views. There are so many wonderful pubs in York town center where these historic inns add to the charm and character of the place.

From my favorite, the Kings Arms on the river, to the secret gin garden at the Fat Badger, to the Food at the Walmgate Inn and Eagle and Child, there’s a pub to suit every occasion in York. The only question left should be, which one to try first? There are so many good pubs in York that I recommend you try as many as possible.

I have given a selection here but want to visit and review lots more as soon as possible!  Who doesn’t love a a good pub lunch in front of a roaring fire in the winter or relaxing with food in a sunny beer garden?

25 High Petergate, York, YO1 7HP

The Guy Fawkes Inn  is a “medieval inn in York that stands in the shadow of York Minster, the very birthplace of the notorious plotter, Guy Fawkes.” They offer “classic British food in our AA rosette restaurant.”

They serve fantastic quality pub food, with large portions, at a reasonable price in a comfortable environment.  They also have two fantastic beer gardens.

See our full review of lunch at The Guy Fawkes Inn.

The Lamb and Lion Inn resides within an ancient building oozing with character and charm. Their beer garden nestles next to the Bar Walls and is a great place to meet friends outdoors in the summer.  In the winter the Lamb and Lion has heated igloos in their beer garden, making it a year round destination.

They serve classic pub food and the pub has a cosy and comfortable atmosphere.

See our full review of Dinner at The Lamb and Lion Inn.

15 North St, York YO1 6JD

The Whippet Inn is a steak and alehouse with a fine line in seafood too.  It’s a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away as it is on North Street, but once you have been you will return.  Lovely, friendly staff look after you in a comfortable and relaxed environment with a stylish and quirky decor.  The food is fresh,  imaginative and great quality.

The menu offers such delights as ‘Picanha- 32 Day Dry Aged, Triple Cooked Chunky Chips, Garlic & Thyme Confit Vine Tomato, Green Peppercorn & Brandy Sauce’, or ‘Poached Sea Trout Fillet with Olive Oil Potato, Puffed Fish Skin, Aromatic Herb Powder, Brown Shrimp Butter & Pea Purée’.

“The ideal spot for any occasion, The Whippet Inn serves both lunch & dinner, seven days a week, alongside our Main Menu & specials boards we also offer for our legendary(ish) Set Price lunch menu Monday to Friday, plus ‘Lets Get Roasted’ every Sunday, an institution unto itself and one of York’s best kept secrets (so sshhh)”

See what we thought when we visited The Whippet Inn.

6-12 Lendal, York YO1 8AA

The Old Bank is on Lendal, opposite Judges Lodgings.  Recently reopened after a big refurbishment, the décor is modern and comfortable.  There are several booths with individual TV’s, plug sockets and USB chargers, making it a perfect spot for a recharge on a lunchtime and great for kids.  Great affordable option.

See our full review of The Old Bank here.

Hull Road, Dunnington, York, YO19 5LP

Twine and Barrel in Dunnington is a fine dining gastro pub near York.  Recently refurbished to a high standard with a new, large outdoor area and large car park.    They boast locally sourced fresh Yorkshire produce, creating a ‘vibrant menu of lovingly cooked classic and contemporary dishes’.

We have reviewed the food at Twine and Barrel here.

8-10 Stonegate, York YO1 8AX

Stonegate Yard is situated in a beautiful Georgian townhouse on Little Stonegate.  It’s one of our go-to spots for a cheap and cheerful lunch (I’d recommend the potato wedges – it’s a starter but will serve as a light main course).  They have a pretty courtyard garden that is heated in the winter.

27 Swinegate, York YO1 8AZ

We have long been fans of Oscar’s Wine Bar and Bistro and have visited on and off for many years since the days when they were situated round the corner on Stonegate.  We visited recently for lunch.  They have a good selection of burgers in its own ‘Speciality Burger’ section with everything from Plain Burgers to Cajun Blue and Bacon Burgers.

See our review of Oscar’s Wine Bar here.

6 Fishergate, York YO10 4AB

The Masons Arms is an independent and privately operated traditional British pub.  The pub was built in 1935 in Tudor style as a flagship project by the local Tadcaster Tower Brewery. The interior of the Masons Arms provides a setting for some genuine Gothic features including oak panelling from York Castle and the fireplace from the Castle gatehouse.

It is the high quality of these features and the pub’s enviable reputation for its fine food and hand pulled ales that contributes most to the pub’s special character. The Masons Arms’ enviable position overlooking the City walls and Gatehouse and with a secluded beer terrace overlooking the River Foss make it a popular venue with locals and tourists alike.

34 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF

Dating back to the late 1800’s, The Cross Keys is a snug and traditional Victorian pub. Located in the main central shopping street of Goodramgate, our pub is a stone’s throw of York Minster. This area was created in the Viking era and is chronicled through the history and magnificence of architecture, war, politics and social evolution, much of it documented by the epochs of the nearby Minster and Jorvik Viking Centre.

Our breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus offer everything you’d expect to find on any respectable, British pub menu, and so much more besides. Boasting an array of delicious sharers, through to classic main dishes, and succulent burgers, there’s a selection to suit every appetite.

18 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LG

“We take pride in our food here at the Royal Oak. Using quality ingredients, our chefs create wonderful dishes that range from good old comfort food to exquisite specials one might not expect to find in a typical pub. From fresh fish to oven-baked pies, we have you covered. We offer food during lunchtimes every day from 12 till 3 in the afternoon, as well as stunning dinner options from 5pm to 9pm – covering all your wants and needs.”

20 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LG

This historic northern treasure is practically overflowing with possible spots to eat and drink. From wood-fired pizzas to secret gin bars and independent breweries. Perhaps no other city in Yorkshire captures the range of exciting independent businesses and well-known traditional pubs better than York. 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!

Brew York, a renowned independent brewery that create 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.

Hungry after all that beer? We don’t blame you. Well, it good thing Yuzu Street Food has you covered with authentic bao buns, katsu curry and rice bowls to die for.

Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TT – 01904 848448

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. And did we mention you can get a pint for as low as £2.30? No, we’re not lying, promise. This no-fuss pub does the basics better than most. It’s prime riverside location is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike and bringing in crowds on the warmer days, so you’ll be lucky to get a seat outside in the summer months.

3 King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN – 01904 659435

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, which makes them even more popular than others!

2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH – 01904 612078

DON’T MISS our exclusive Fat Badger York restaurant offer – SAVE 20% off food Monday – Thursday

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

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, with help from the York Considerations Trust, into a magnificent craft beer Mansion. The bar is equipped with a whopping 22 kegs of craft beer and ale, so it’s the perfect place if you want to delve into the depths of the craft beer world, or just enjoy some good quality beer with family and friends.

14 Lendal, York, YO1 8AA

The Angel on the Green is a well-known and well-loved institution for locals in this area of York. They truly have something for every type of York visitor and frequenter here. A seriously impressive array of handpicked local beers, wines and spirits? Got it. A plethora of authentic home-cooked Italian food? Yes! Got it! All this can be enjoyed in their homey laid back setting, or visit on an evening with live music that everyone is sure to love.

2-4 Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 1JJ – 01904 866073

You really cannot miss Pivni, literally. 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 – 01904 635464

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 pride themselves on their locally sourced produce, making the best in seasonal dishes. Trust me, you’re going to want to try their Sunday Roast. Spread over three floors, they have an assortment of space for both small and large groups of drinkers. And with a fully stocked bar filled with beers, wines, gins and spirits you’d be a fool to miss this pub in York.

9 High Petergate, York YO1 7EN – 01904 631536

Renowned for more than its name alone and the history that comes with it. The Guy Fawkes Inn has mastered the balance of classic pub grub with a modern flare. Standing in the shadows of York Minster, step into this medieval inn and kick back with one of their famous, AA Rosette-awarded steak pies, washed down with any of their finest cask ales, wines, and spirits. All in their relaxing, gas lamp-lit cosy interiors.

25 High Petergate, York YO1 7HP – 01904 623716

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. Well, 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 – 01904 629222

They say it best themselves, “a traditional city centre pub with a modern twist”. It is that and so much more! They stock an overwhelming range of craft beer both cask and keg, the best of sustainable and organic natural wines and 17 gins! Or why not try their tasty Milanese style pizzas 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 – 01904 637023

Fossgate is described as a new up-and-coming scene, and The Fossgate Social sits at the heart of that. Oozing with independent charm and spirit, this small but perfectly formed bar are serving up cocktails, craft beer and coffee all year round. Priding themselves on their locally sourced, seasonal no-fuss food. Washed down perfectly with any of their wonderful array of craft beers, especially Space Craft courtesy of their very own Ice Cream Factory brewery! Certainly one of the best pubs in York.

25 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA – 01904 625844

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 – 01904 676065

Another classic British pub run expertly well in the heart of historic York. The classic black and white Tudor style building has it all. An amazing range of draft beers, cask ales, gins and spirits. Serving no-fuss classic British pub food. Did we mention great prices!? This is one of the best pubs in York for a reason.

2 Merchantgate, York YO1 9TU – 01904 640418

You’re looking for an escape from the modern rabble of the city, to get away from tv screens and blaring music? Take a step into this unspoilt, independently-run little pub that lies next to the city walls. Priding itself on being a traditional institution fit with unspoilt original charm. 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 – 01904 656401

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. Oh and wood-fired pizzas! All of this and its beautiful authentic interior truly make this one of the best pubs in York.

11-12 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA – 01904 541466

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 Mediaeval children’s shoe was found during construction work in the pub. After an evening of drinking in The Golden Slipper, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the best pubs in York.

20 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LG – 01904 651235

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 – 01904 623063

On Goodramgate is a pub that dates back to the 16th Century, The Old White Swan. With a very colourful history and becoming Grade II listed, it is one of the oldest pubs in York. Their 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 –  01904 540911