Pubs in York: take a historic pub crawl

Phil — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:52:16 +0000

England is well known for its historical pubs, some dating back to the middle ages. What better place to do a historic pub crawl than York?

As one of England’s most historical cities, there are plenty of pubs in York worth a visit.

Ye Olde Starre Inn which is in Stonegate, a quaint narrow paved street, is one of our favourite pubs in York. It’s hard to walk past it without popping in for a pint of cider, or Theakston’s Old Peculiar (a Yorkshire beer). They also do great ‘pub’ lunches, and the atmosphere is not too bad either You’ll have the time of your life.

Not only that, but being the oldest pub in the city, Ye Olde Starre Inn holds real historical significance. It dates back to 1644 – the time of King Henry VIII’s reign – and is the subject of many ghost stories. The Battle of Marston Moor was fought near York in the English Civil War and the Inn’s cellar was used as an operating room for the wounded. It is said their screams of pain can still sometimes be heard throughout the pub. Another interesting story is that of the two cats who were apparently bricked into the pillar between the door and the bar. It is said the cats can be heard scampering through the pubs and that dogs bark and hit their heads against the pillar trying to get to the cats.

Another pub in York that is of particular interest is the Kings Arms. This is one of, if not the best known, of the pubs in York. As you wander inside to the warm, friendly atmosphere take a moment to look around. As you are greeted by the smiling staff and a friendly open fire (in the colder months) you will notice the pub’s inside décor of stone and wood features plaques of water heights.

The Kings Arms is best known for its capacity to flood. Being located on the banks of the River Ouse, every time the river bursts its banks the famous York pub goes under water. When it’s not flooded they serves up a fantastic king-sized meal. Sit inside by the fire, or on the banks of the River Ouse and have a pint or two and a bite (well a lot of bites) to eat.

York and the surrounding area is said to contain one pub for every day of the year, although this now probably a little exaggerated. It is said, with poetic licence, that there is no point within the city walls where one can stand and not be able to see at least one pub and at least one church. So if you like English beer to York.

by Kate Wiley

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Pubs in York: take a historic pub crawl