Anyone fancy a pint? As soon as the sun arrives, the inevitable question pops up.
There are so many fab choices for beer gardens in York, so we’ve narrowed it down to 12 of our OG favourites.
Quirky, traditional and one not even outside! Plan your route around these al-fresco hot spots.
OG YORK t-shirts
GUY FAWKES
Celebrating the gunpowder plotter Guy Fawkes, born and educated in the OG City of York
Traditional pub beer gardens in York
Guy Fawkes Inn
Named after York’s most infamous character, the Guy Fawkes Inn has not one but THREE beer gardens – all in the shadow of York Minster.
The gunpowder plotter was born in 1570, allegedly in a cottage that used to stand one of these very beer gardens, allowing you to literally soak up the history.
Fat Badger
The Fat Badger beer garden has the second best view of York Minster – but the best view of the bar walls.
Nestled under the side arch of Bootham Bar, the pub with rooms is a perfect place to while away your afternoons.
OG YORK t-shirts
BAR WALLS
Celebrating the medieval bar walls, this map is in the style of the underground map
Golden Ball
Within the city walls, but a bit of a walk, the Golden Ball is definitely worth it.
York’s first community co-operative pub is Victorian and Grade II listed. A real locals pub but always friendly.
Eagle & Child
Another beer garden in the shadow of York Minster, this small but perfectly formed sun trap is great to relax and catch rays in.
The King’s Arms
Surely the most photographed pub in York – usually because it floods. In summer, however, it boasts a large beer garden on the banks of the River Ouse.
The Judge’s Lodging
Set to the front of the this magnificent Grade I listed townhouse, this beer garden has a real sense of occasion.
With delicious food and cocktails, it’s a perfect place to meet friends for a summer catch-up.
OG YORK t-shirts
BAR WALLS
Celebrating the medieval bar walls, this map is in the style of the underground map
Bar & eatery beer gardens in York
York Minster Refectory
York Minster Refectory has the best view of York Minster from any beer garden in York – as one might expect given the name.
Opened by King Charles III in 2023, it is primarily a restaurant, but you can sit out and enjoy a pint with an amazing view on a sunny day.
York Tap
A beer garden that’s not technically outside – the York Tap resides under the canopy of York Station.
A former Victorian tea rooms, this fabulous building serves a wide selection of real ales and continental craft beers. It’s location makes it he perfect place to start and/or end a beer tour of York.
Brew York
Never judge a book by it’s cover. Just six minutes walk from Shambles, Brew York is an industrial unit outside, but a wonderful beer hall and tap room within.
The recently refurbished beer garden has tranquil views over York’s second river – the River Foss – as well as the beautiful Rowntree Wharf.
SPARK York
On the site of a former tram shed and aircraft manufacturer, SPARK York is bustling community venue with multiple food and drink vendors.
Cocktails to pints, pizza to gyros, there really is something for everyone here – all served up in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
The Habit Cafe Bar
The Habit Cafe Bar has the smallest beer garden in our guide, but it is a real hidden gem.
Upstairs and at the back of the bar, it overlooks the rooftops and York Minster. A real sun trap too, it’s a great place to hide out on a weekend.
Thor’s Orangery
One for the summer only – until 6 September 2026 – this continental-style pop-up adds colour and flair to Parliament Street. With a planted pergola, street food and plenty of choice to drink, it’s a family-friendly option right in the heart of York.
