The Best Pubs & Bars in York, Ranked

There’s nothing better than a bit of Yorkshire hospitality. It’s something our boutique hotel prides itself on. When you venture further out into York, you’ll find an amazing array of pubs and bars ready to greet you with open arms.

With such a great variety of watering holes, it can be difficult to know where to start. Luckily, we’ve ranked our favourites to make it a little easier for you!

1. The Market Cat

Your traditional pub with a ‘modern twist’. Expect your favourite craft ales, organic wines and a mouthwatering spirit selection. Just on the corner of Shambles Market, this central bar is three stories tall, giving spectacular views over the rooftops to the Minster. Their Milanese style pizzas are a must-try. The Market Cat, 6 Jubbergate, YO1 8RT.

2. Evil Eye

Specialising in the weird and wonderful, Evil Eye specialises in creative cocktails. Their extensive drinks menu features ‘Evil Creations’, and has something that everyone will love. As if that wasn’t enough, in 2018 Evil Eye won the Guinness World Record for the ‘most varieties of gin commercially available’. Evil Eye, 42 Stonegate, YO1 8AS.

Cocktail in York

3. The Drawing Board

No points for guessing how this bar got its name: the walls of their nighttime venue are covered in blackboards. An institution in York for over 20 years, this cosy bar hosts incredible events and live music. A chilled cafe in the day, and on an evening an atmospheric and vibrant cocktail and beer spot. The Drawing Board, 10-10a New St, YO1 8RA.

4. Ye Olde Starre Inne

Believed to be the oldest licensed premises in York, this traditional pub is steeped in history. Roaring fires and cosy nooks make it a superb escape from the bustling streets. In summer, grab a seat in the courtyard for a refreshing pick-me-up. Ye Olde Starre Inne, 40 Stonegate, YO1 8AS.

Bar taps in York

5. House of the Trembling Madness

With two locations on Stonegate and Lendal, the House of the Trembling Madness is a priority for beer lovers. Their original Medieval Stonegate ale house dates its oldest parts back to circa 1180AD. Their Lendal location is described as a ‘craft beer mansion’, housing 22 kegs over five stories. House of the Trembling Madness, 48 Stonegate, YO1 8AS and 14 Lendal, YO1 8AA.

6. The Biltmore Bar & Grill

Housed inside an impressive converted church, this family owned bar is a local favourite. The proud Northern Ambassadors for Moet Hennessy, their premium drink offerings are surprisingly affordable. Midweek you’ll find a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, and on a weekend their resident DJ sparks excitement. The Biltmore Bar & Grill, 29 Swinegate, YO1 8AZ

No88 Walmgate Bar

No.88 Walmgate

We couldn’t list the very pubs and bars in the city without naming our very own No.88 Walmgate. We serve a great variety of craft beers and rustic pizza alongside a refined cocktail menu. Ever proud of our Yorkshire roots, we have a strong focus on sourcing as much local produce as we can. No.88 Walmgate, 88-96 Walmgate, YO1 9TL.

For even more excellent Yorkshire service, visit our boutique hotel on Walmgate. Our special offers are perfect to make your trip to York even more memorable.

Food & Drink in York

Sip on local gin, craft ales, familiar favourites, and creative cocktails at No.88 Walmgate. Pair with one of our delicious Rustic Pizzas.

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We proudly stand in the historic neighbourhood of Walmgate, just a short walk from all the city has to offer.

At one point Walmgate had 20 pubs on the street, today it is a cool mix of independent restaurants, bars and shops and continues to Fossgate – which boasts even more independent shops, delis, bars and restaurants. Walmgate Bar proudly stands at the end of the road. It is the only existing bar in York with a Barbican and forms part of the York City Walls walk.

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York Hotel's Chocolate Story

Discover the history of chocolate, how to make it and how to taste it like an expert at the York’s Chocolate Story.

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