Looking for a beer garden in York? Well, now that summer is on its way, we couldn’t be more excited. York in the summer is one of our favourite places to be. Its cobbled streets and the majestic River Ouse make for a beautiful backdrop for a few ales. From rooftop bars to festival vibes we’ve hunted down the best beer gardens in York to enjoy this summer.
York city centre is home to a host of beer gardens and drinking spots. The city with amazing pubs of all shapes and sizes is perfect to enjoy a drink outside in the summer months. With so many to pick, we’ve hand-selected some of the best beer gardens in York city that will make your trip that extra bit special.

1. Thor’s Sol Ást Tipi Bar
Starting out on York’s Christmas Market, the Sol Ást tipi bar is their summer version and can be found at the Principal Hotel, near the York train station. Their outdoor space is scattered with benches and has a great boho festival feeling to it that will give you all the great feelings this summer – get the glitter and hot pants on and get that festival vibe going. Station Rd, York YO24 1AA
Find out more here.
We are still waiting on news of Thor’s Summer Tipi Opening Dates
2. Spark: York
Found in the Picadilly area of York, an array of old shipping containers have been brought back to life and not play host to a range of cool and innovative independent food outlets and bars. They have a great selection of benches and a seating area both upstairs and down. We love getting a seat upstairs on a sunny day. Sat up there with a cold beer is hard to beat. It’s one of the coolest beer gardens York. 17-21 Piccadilly, York YO1 9PB
Find out more here.
3. Dyls
From the new and contemporary build to a piece of history – Dyls is a quaint independent cafe & bar next to Skeldergate Bridge in one of York’s most iconic buildings. If you want to enjoy a little tipple in a piece of history, you can enjoy contemporary cuisine and creative drinks on their terrace. Who wouldn’t want to visit this little piece of history? Skeldergate Bridge, York YO1 9WJ
Find out more here.
4. Stonegate Yard
Set on the historical Stonegate hidden within backed off from the cobbled streets of York, Stonegate Yard is a real treat. The quaint square in which you can sit and enjoy a beer and some food hides you away from the bustling city streets of York. They have an array of great beers and their food menu has some real treats on it. Make sure you visit this old beer gardens in York. 8-10 Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Find out more here.
5. The Star Inn The City
Taking up residence in the old Engine House on the edge of York’s Museum Gardens, overlooking the River Ouse, Star In The City has one of the best outdoor seating areas in York. You can enjoy a beer and some fantastic food with Lendal Bridge and the River Ouse creating an idyllic backdrop that rivals any riverside views in the world. Lendal Engine House, Museum St, York YO1 7DR
Find out more here.
6. The Judge’s Lodging
As well as their beautiful seating area out front where you can sit and watch the world go by, they have a beautiful relaxing area outback. There is plenty of space to enjoy a beer in the sun at the Judge’s Lodging. It’s one of York’s busiest bars for sure. 9 Lendal, York YO1 8AQ
Find out more here.
7. Eagle and Child
A great pub and restaurant with old fashioned vibes with creaky wooden floors. Their beer garden is beautiful, especially at night where you can enjoy twinkling fairy lights while you enjoy a nice ale or glass of wine. Away from the bustle of the city, it’s a great beer gardens in York.
Find out more here.
8. Lamb & Lion
The Lamb & Lion is an old English inn that adjoins Bootham Bar, right on the roman York walls. They have a beautiful beer garden set on the grounds of this traditional York pub. You can expect an amazing view of the York Minster from your seat. It’s a really good pub to sit and while away the hours with friends.
Find out more here.
9. Pitcher and Piano
Always very busy, Pitcher & Piano sits next to the river and is another of York’s bars that enjoy beautiful riverside views. They do a range of amazing cocktails as well as nice cold beers. Their beer garden is beautiful and all buzzing – one to get stuck into the summer. Coney St, York YO1 9QL
Find out more here.
10. Revolution York
Revolution is known for its quirky cocktails and decent deals for booze. So, if you’re wanting to enjoy a pornstar martini by the river then this is the one for you. Perfect for a gals day out, family time or a quick drink – this venue is built for all clientele. Coney St, York YO1 9NA
Find out more here.
11. Kings Arms
An iconic piece of York, this Sam Smiths pub is always packed. Their beer garden sits right on the river and their beers are the cheapest around and are still great quality. If you’re looking for a cheap pint by the river, this is the one. The Kings Arms Pub, 3 King’s Staith, York YO1 9SN
Find out more here.
12. Ye Olde Shambles Tavern
Set on the iconic street Shambles – this little bar has a great seating area on the market that is great for people watching. They have a huge range of beers from loads of different breweries to enjoy – one of our favourites for sure. 44 Shambles, York YO1 7LX
Find out more here.
13. Brew York
Brew York create some of the tastiest beers you’ll ever experience with hilarious names that just add to their enjoyment. Found along Walmgate, behind the Enterprise complex you’ll find the beer hall and it has its own hidden beer garden where you can while away the warmer days. As well as serving u fantastic food, they also have amazing street food created by their long-term collaborators Yuzu Street Food. Unit 6, Enterprise Complex, Walmgate, York YO1 9TT
Find out more here.
14. Lendal Cellars
The Lendal Cellars has a lovely beer garden in York city centre. Found just off Coney Street in Lendal you’ll find a range of craft ales to try as well as some fantastic gins on offer. Their quaint beer garden is another one that is hidden off the beaten path which means all the more fun for you. 26 Lendal, York YO1 8AA
Find out more here.
15. Guy Fawkes Inn
Sat right next to the York Minster is Guy Fawkes Inn, home to the infamous gunpowder plotter. The beautiful historic pub has all the old fashioned fittings you’d expect and the York beer garden is a perfect way to escape the business of York and enjoy a quiet drink with friends in the sun.
Find out more here.