Top Bars in York – Most Viewed (2025)

Valhalla York, nestled in the heart of York’s medieval Shambles, is a Viking‑themed rock pub and café that opened in September 2017. Established by two local mates, it pays homage to the city’s Norse roots through a meticulously crafted interior—heavy oak tables, flickering candlelit chandeliers, and racks of mead horns and skulls—without veering into museum territory . Inside, two bars—one on the first floor and one above—serve up eight keg lines and five hand‑pulled ales, including their own Half Moon-brewed Valhalla Pale (4%) and Odin’s Judgement (5.8%) cask ales. Beer buffs also enjoy rotating craft keg ales (like Brew York Viking DNA), while mead lovers can sample a rich selection of traditional and fruit‑infused meads straight from ceremonial horns. Spirits, wine and barista‑style coffee round off the drink menu. The kitchen keeps diners roaring with hearty platters and tapas: think meaty and vegan loaded fries, the ‘Ragnarok’ mega‑feast board, vegan and meat charcuterie boards, and smaller options like Padron peppers or pork pie. Food service runs daily until 8 pm . Music is pure rock and metal—no pop diversion here—making the atmosphere energised yet friendly. Events include weekly Speed Quiz nights and live acoustic sessions in the AllFather Hall function room. Under-18s are welcome until 9 pm (10 pm with private events), and well-behaved dogs are always accepted. Post-COVID in 2021, Valhalla expanded into a larger venue: more space, seats, beers, meads and food while keeping its cosy, community focus and Norse soul. Whether you're raising a horn to Odin, belting along to Iron Maiden, or digging into a monstrous platter, this is a place where the brave live forever.

Tucked away on Stonegate in the historic centre of York, House of the Trembling Madness is a multi-floor ale house steeped in atmosphere and character. Housed in a timber-framed building originating around 1600 and later connected to a Norman house structure behind, it’s sure to make an impression. Inside, you’ll find a bar that wears its eccentricity on its sleeve: stuffed animals mounted on the ceiling and walls, dark wood beams, narrow corridors, candles on tables, and a sense of “old-world curiosity meets craft beer bar” throughout. But it’s not just décor for show. The beer list is serious. With dozens of keg lines, many casks, and a bottle shop downstairs, the bar appeals equally to craft-beer fanatics and casual drinkers looking for something interesting. Food is offered as well — though the kitchen is known to be small. Expect hearty British fare, pies, stews, and large portions designed to match the beers. One review cautions: “the kitchen is tiny, so service may run slowly.” This place works for different occasions: a pint and chat in a unique setting, a drink with friends exploring York’s nightlife, or for the beer-savvy visitor keen to try something extraordinary in a historic context. Just know — it can be busy, especially in peak times, and the seating is often shared. In short: The House of the Trembling Madness is part pub, part beer-temple, part oddity cabinet — offering more than just a drink: a full experience rooted in place and personality.

Located at 15-19 Stonegate in historic York, The Botanist York combines a vibrant bar, restaurant and live-music venue in one immersive experience. The décor invites you into a playful “secret garden” atmosphere—think foliage, decorative branches, botanical motifs and a leafy interior aesthetic that sets the tone for both food and drink. On the food side, The Botanist is known for its “hanging kebabs” (such as lamb kofta or crispy halloumi versions) and a rotating menu of seasonally inspired dishes using vegetables, herbs, spices and fruit. On the drinks front, the cocktail list draws inspiration from the botanical theme—flavours include shrub syrups, wild fruits, herb-infused spirits and creative garnishes. The happy hour offer (Mon-Fri 16:00-19:00) features 2 classic cocktails for £16.95, pints for £4.95 and more. Live music is part of the draw: every Friday evening from around 19:00 and Saturday from around 20:00 the venue hosts bands and acoustic acts. The space spans two floors, includes an outdoor seating area, and welcomes dogs (in certain parts) making it a flexible spot for daytime brunch, after-work drinks or a lively evening out. For those new to the place: arrive via Stonegate (a pedestrianised historic street), expect a lively crowd (especially on weekends), and consider booking for the evening if you're after a specific table. The venue mixes casual drinks with a more upbeat social scene, so it suits a range of outings—from cocktails with friends to dining with a twist.