5 Best Bars in York, UK, for a Perfect Night Out

Going to York? Then you’ll probably end up looking for a place to grab a drink at some point. It’s not a big city, but there are actually quite a few good bars around. And the best part is that they’re all pretty easy to get to!

In this article, we’ll go through a few of the best bars in York UK that are worth checking out.

If there’s one place that people keep mentioning when it comes to the best bars in the UK, it’s the Evil Eye Lounge. It’s tucked away on one of the city’s oldest streets, and once inside, it feels very different from the usual bars in York. The space is colorful, quirky, and a bit unusual (in a good way!), giving the lounge a distinctive but full of personality.

But what stands out in this Evil Eye bar in York is that there are over a thousand cocktails to choose from. They’re mostly themed in a fun way, with menus inspired by things like board games, and the drinks themselves lean towards bold, creative flavors. 

• Espresso Martini

• Strawberry Daiquiri

• Whiskey Sour

• Lychee Mule

Fossgate Social is a small independent spot on Fossgate, which is already known as one of the best streets in the city for food and drink. This cocktail bar in York has an industrial look, with exposed brick and visible piping on the outside, coupled with a cozy and relaxing interior. It works just as well for a quiet coffee earlier in the day as it does for casual drinks later on.

And it’s easy to like, as they have a mix of options for their customers. For years, they’ve been serving specialty coffee, craft beer on tap, cocktails, and even pastries and toasties if you want something small to eat with your drink. 

• Social Espresso Martini

• Amaretto / Whiskey Sour

• Margarita

• Bellini

As one of the best bars in York, UK, The House of the Trembling Madness has a strong reputation for craft beer, with a wide selection on tap and even more to explore, alongside a solid range of spirits and wines. They also serve filling food like sandwiches, stews, and other comfort options if you’re staying a bit longer. 

This bar is conveniently right in the city center on Lendal, set inside a restored Georgian building that dates all the way back to the early 1700s. And since this area is full of history, joining a small group walking tour in York is a good way to understand more about places like this.

• Local craft ales (on cask) 

• Belgian beer selection

• Red wine / house spirits

Looking for a York bar that’s rich in music with a more energetic crowd? Then The Stone Roses Bar is worth adding to the list. This place leans heavily into its indie and rock identity, with a Britpop-style interior decor and music-inspired artwork that feels lively and just nostalgic.

It’s especially popular with the younger generation, partly because the drinks are affordable and partly because there are live bands performing regularly. When there isn’t a set on, indie music keeps the atmosphere going, which makes it a great spot for a fun night out with your friends.

• Stone Roses IPA

• Themed cocktails like “Fools Gold” and “Love Spreads”

• Shooters and mixed drinks

The Blue Bell is also one of the most memorable places to drink in York. Established in 1798, it’s known as the city’s smallest pub and still keeps much of its Edwardian character, giving it a very old-school feel that stands out straight away. 

It’s also a bar that takes its drinks and its setting seriously. There’s a real focus on cask-conditioned ale, with a selection of permanent beers as well as guest ales throughout the year. On top of that, its long-standing house rules help keep the place quiet and respectful, which suits such a small space and adds even more to its character.

• Brass Castle Blue Bell House IPA

• Timothy Taylor's Landlord

• Bradfield Farmer’s Blonde

• Wold Top Bitter

York may be small, but it has a bar scene with a bit of everything. Whether it’s creative cocktails, craft beer, live music, or a quiet traditional pub, these best bars in York, UK, give a good mix of what the city has to offer. It really just depends on what kind of night out sounds best for you and your friends. 

Since York is compact and easy to explore, you might also want to plan a bit of sightseeing around it, and the York City Pass can be useful for fitting more into the trip. A hop-on, hop-off York sightseeing bus pass is also a handy option for getting around the city. 

Evil Eye Lounge is often mentioned as Johnny Depp’s favorite bar in York, though this is mostly based on reports and local rumors from when he visited during filming.

Yes, York has a strong nightlife scene with a mix of historic pubs, cocktail bars, and live music venues, offering options for both relaxed drinks and lively nights out. For something a bit different in the evening, the Ghost Bus Tour is a popular way to experience the city at night.

The Secret Bar York is located off Clifford Street and is known as a hidden or basement-style venue often used for private events and bookings.

Ed Sheeran co-owns Bertie Blossoms, a bar and restaurant in Notting Hill, London. He also has a private pub called Lancaster Lock on his own estate, which he built from a converted barn for personal use. 

Plonkers Wine Bar is one of the more well-known drinking spots in York, especially for people looking for a cosy place with a bit of character. It’s often mentioned by visitors who want something a little more traditional during a night out in the city.