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Explore York: 5 Heritage Pubs for History Buffs
Discover the rich history of York through its charming heritage pubs, where historical interiors transport you back in time.
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York, located in North Yorkshire, is a lovely old city with a rich history connected to the Romans, Saxons, and Vikings. It has many beautiful buildings from medieval times, along with charming Georgian and Victorian structures.
With its rich history, visitors can easily spend several days exploring York. But every explorer needs a break (or two).
While enjoying a traditional English pub for a pint, a packet of crisps, or a hearty meal like a pie, fish and chips, or a roast, you can also take in the city’s unique heritage.
York is home to many heritage pubs. After living and working in and around the city for over ten years, I’ve explored countless pubs.
Here are five of the best heritage pubs in York for those who enjoy a touch of history with their drink.
1. The Blue Bell
Stepping into the Blue Bell feels like stepping back in time. This small, two-room pub has a corridor connecting the two spaces, and its interior has stayed the same since 1903.
While enjoying one of the expertly kept cask ales, you can admire the lovely Edwardian features, such as the engraved and etched glass and the sashed serving hatches leading to the back room and corridor.
Keep in mind that the Blue Bell is quite small and popular, so it can be tough to find a spot. However, once you do manage to get in, it’s a truly rewarding experience.
2. The York Tap
If you’re arriving in or leaving York by train, The York Tap is a must-visit spot. Located inside York Station, between platforms three and four, it’s the perfect place for tired travelers to relax.
The central circular bar features an impressive selection of beer pumps, offering everything from traditional cask ales to European pilsners.
Originally built as a tea room in 1907, the pub still showcases its beautiful art nouveau stained glass and a stunning terrazzo floor.
3. The Black Swan
The Black Swan is located in a medieval timber-framed house that dates back to 1417. This historic building became a pub in the late 16th century and was carefully refurbished in the 1930s by the local Tadcaster Tower brewery.
Given its age, it’s no surprise that the pub is said to have some resident ghosts. Visitors have reported sightings of a workman in a bowler hat, a young woman in a long white dress, and even a pair of legs that seem to walk up to the landlord’s flat before disappearing.
The pub also offers Ghost Suppers, which combine delicious food with a private ghost walk for those brave enough to explore its haunted history.
4. The Golden Ball
The Golden Ball dates back to late 18th or early 19th century & was taken over by John Smiths Brewery, which remodeled it extensively in 1929.
It’s considered one of the best-preserved interwar pub designs by John Smiths. My favorite spot to sit is the cosy alcove beside the bar, but in the summer, the neat beer garden (which also features outdoor toilets) is a popular choice.
Since 2012, the Golden Ball has been a community cooperative with nearly 200 consumer members who help decide how the pub is run.
Located in the residential Bishophill area (still within the city walls), it welcomes both locals and visitors. While you’re there, why not enjoy a game of bar billiards?
5. The Swan
The Swan is located in the trendy Bishopthorpe Road area, just outside the historic city walls. It has been a beerhouse since 1861 and was remodeled in 1936 by Tetley’s brewery.
I highly recommend spending a Friday afternoon at The Swan. The pub offers a fantastic selection of well-kept real ales & a wide range of snacks.
Be sure to admire beautifully preserved lobby with its terrazzo flooring, & don’t miss men’s distinctive original urinals (you’ll want to see them!).
However, the best part is the cosy “smoke room,” which was traditionally for smoking. My favorite spot is right across from the door, to the left of the fireplace.
If you venture into the North Yorkshire countryside or head to the coast, there are many more heritage pubs to explore.
Be sure to check the limited opening hours for the Birch Hall Inn. The Grapes is a quintessential country pub, while The Lion Inn offers fantastic views of the North York Moors.
If you make it all the way to Whitby, don’t miss The Black Horse, where you can find accommodation & enjoy delicious Yapas (Yorkshire Tapas).
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