When the sun shines in York, locals and visitors alike flock to these Ouse-side pubs and restaurants looking for a chance to enjoy some al fresco drinking and dining. And, although York beer gardens across the city centre offer a fantastic chance to bask in the sunshine, these riverside bars in York just hit differently.
We’ve listed the best riverside pubs and dining experiences to enjoy – in no particular order, just ones we know you’ll enjoy. York in the summertime just hits differently, and sitting sipping a cocktail next to the Ouse just feels right. And, luckily, there is a little something for everyone perched on this riverside. So, without further ado, here are some of the best riverside pubs in York.
So, what are the best riverside bars in York?
1. Star Inn The City
Star Inn The City is brought to you by Chef Andrew Pern, the Michelin-starred chef behind the famous Star Inn at Harome. The beautiful waterside bar and restaurant in York city centre overlooks the spectacular River Ouse, whilst also sitting next to one of the world’s most beautiful bridges: Lendal Bridge.
Found in the city centre, a stone’s throw from all of York’s famous sites (including the Minster, which looms over this particular area of York), it’s the perfect place to sit and while away the hours in summertime. The food is delicious, too, and pays homage to the nearby North York Moors and the North Yorkshire countryside. Think breakfast, Sunday roast and fine dining-style dishes. Find out more here. The Star Inn The City, Lendal Engine House, Museum St, York, YO1 7DR.
2. SOPHiE
Tucked away in a former tollhouse on Lendal Bridge, SOPHiE is a hidden gem and one of the best places for drinks in York. Attached to the iconic bridge itself, the cosy spot boasts some of the finest riverside views in the city. While it’s well known for its coffee and light bites, Sophie’s is also a fantastic place to enjoy a bottle of wine or a cocktail, especially when soaking up the sun on the outdoor terrace overlooking the River Ouse. It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and make the most of the summer months. Find out more here. SOPHiE, East Lodge, Lendal Bridge, York YO1 7DP
3. Revolution York
Known for its quirky cocktails, Revolution not only has a huge city centre bar perfect for catching up with mates, but an incredible riverside terrace, too. Found next to Pitcher & Piano, it has two main outdoor seating areas. One can be found facing the Ouse, whilst the other faces the city side, and is ideal for those who want a bit of shade.
Their cocktails never disappoint, with a huge array of classics and signatures, and regular happy hours where you can enjoy 2-4-1 drinks. On the menu, expect some of the city’s best smash burgers with trendy toppings such as mac and cheese, Korean fried chicken and more. Revolution York, Coney St, York, YO1 9NA.
4. Kings Arms
Operated by Sam Smith’s, the King’s Arms is a golden oldie, with, you guessed it, riverside seating to enjoy. On a summer’s day, you’d best get there early as it tends to fill up pretty quickly – but there is always a great atmosphere, no matter when you visit.
Cheap beer and great weather are the recipe for success here, with plenty of Sam Smith’s favourites behind the bar (grab us a Taddy Lager, will you?), and a great old-fashioned vibe inside. When in York, right? Sam Smith’s rules, of course, apply, so make sure to avoid swearing and using your phone inside (among other strict rules). The Kings Arms Pub, 3 King’s Staith, York, YO1 9SN.
5. The Lowther
You don’t get much closer to the river than The Lowther. So much so that the pub is known for flooding when the river water levels get high. On a summer’s day, you can sit on the riverside and enjoy table service as you sip on the drinks, watching the world go by.
For those wanting to take advantage of its waterside location, the pub has riverside seating and offers a range of great drinks – including fantastic student deals. Additionally, expect traditional pub grub and laidback vibes. Find out more here. The Lowther, 8 Cumberland St, York, YO1 9SW.
Check out our favourite pizza spots in York here: 7 Of The Best Pizza Spots In York You Need To Try
6. Tank & Paddle
Positioned on the other side of the river from the pubs we’ve mentioned in the list so far, the Tank and Paddle is home to a large riverside terrace, which faces the Kings Arms and offers great views of Ouse Bridge.
Specialising in craft beers and pizza, the casual spot is the perfect place for those who fancy trying new beers, and is particularly great in the summer months. There’s plenty of draught, with cocktails and much more on offer that you can enjoy in the sunshine. Find out more here. Tank & Paddle, 1 Bridge St, YO1 6DD York.
7. Riverside Cafe Bar
Found inside the beautiful City Screen Picturehouse, the Riverside Cafe Bar is a great place to chill next to the river and enjoy a nice bevvie. It looks out over the old Aviva building – one of the city’s architectural wonders – making views towards Lendal Bridge that much nicer.
We highly recommend soaking up the sun on the outdoor terrace with a glass of vino or an ale from one of York’s local suppliers. There’s also seasonal menus on offer, too, with plenty of vegan and veggie dishes to enjoy. Find out more here. The Riverside Cafe Bar, St Martins Courtyard, 13-17 Coney St, York, YO1 9QL.
8. Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
The king of two-for-one cocktails, Slug & Lettuce, is a great place to visit along the River Ouse. Boasting big, open full-length windows on the riverside, guests can enjoy that outside-in vibe with some of the best views in the city, while enjoying great food and cocktails at the popular cocktail bar.
It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to enjoy the location without sitting outdoors, and it is particularly great during the colder months, too. Trendy food menus boast dishes including bao buns, crispy chicken, focaccia sandwiches and much more. Find out more here. Slug & Lettuce York Riverside, 1 Bridge St, York, YO1 6DD.
Read More: 7 Of The Best Bottomless Brunches To Try In York
Feature Image Credit Star Inn The City
