The Top 10 Best Pubs and Bars in York

York was established by the Romans in 71AD as a fort, with battalions of soldiers, who no doubt enjoyed relaxing with a drink at the tavern after a busy day, so York bars and pubs have been serving drinks for almost 2000 years.  Today, York’s selection of bars is brimming with character, charm, and innovation. York has pubs and bars of every brew from centuries-old inns with spooky tales of ghosts, to classic gastro pubs, and modern craft beer havens, ready for a taste of the city’s drinking establishments? Let’s take a sip.  

One of the city's most unique drinking spots is The Roman Bath, where you can sup your pint above a genuine Roman bathhouse. A favourite for history lovers, the pub boasts a small museum showcasing remnants of York’s ancient past. Another gem is The Blue Bell, a tiny Edwardian pub that remains virtually unchanged since the day it opened its doors for the first time. With an intimate atmosphere and classic ales, this friendly and traditional pub offers an authentic experience.

For those who enjoy a livelier setting, Charles XII is a popular spot among students and locals alike. Close to the University of York, the pub has a buzzing atmosphere and on sunny afternoons, its spacious beer garden is the perfect place to chillax.

Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Last Drop Inn, a cosy pub run by the York Brewery, which serves an excellent selection of locally brewed ales in a warm and inviting setting. And York Tap, located in the city’s historic railway station, boasts an impressive lineup of craft beers from around the world, all served in a beautifully restored Victorian setting that feels like a step back in time. On the other end of the spectrum, Brew York is a must-visit for a brewery and taproom, nestled alongside the River Foss, offers a fantastic selection of beers brewed on-site, often with experimental and locally inspired flavours.

It’s not all about beer in this city, if mixers and cocktails are more your style, Evil Eye is the place to be. Hidden on York's oldest street, you'll find an escape from the norms of York and a place to relax. This quirky bar is famed for its inventive drinks, which include an extensive selection of exotic gins. And dancers will enjoy Popworld York, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with neon-lit interiors and an infectious playlist made of five decades of pop classics.

For somewhere quieter, seek out the Phoenix Inn, a snug public house dating back to the 18^th century, committed to serving good northern beers and always has five real ales on tap. The perfect escape from the city hustle and bustle.

Last stop, something completely different, Valhalla York, a Norse-themed bar where visitors can sip mead and ale in a Viking-inspired setting, with a pleasing décor of rustic wood and an impressive range of hearty food.

With a bar and pub scene as rich as the city itself, York is the perfection destination for parties, gatherings and celebrations of all kinds. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, corporate event, private celebration, Christmas party, or looking for hen and stag do ideas, York offers something for every drinker, and every special occasion. Cheers!

For more on York, check out The 10 Best Places to Visit in York and The 10 Best Restaurants and Places to Eat in York, then you’re all set for a fantastic visit.