From rooftop cocktails overlooking York Minster to hidden courtyards and riverside terraces, these are the best places to enjoy a drink in the sunshine.
Looking for the ultimate spot to enjoy a drink in the sunshine? Whether you’re a local planning a weekend session or a visitor looking to rest your feet after exploring the historic streets, we’ve rounded up the best rooftop bars, riverside terraces, and hidden beer gardens in York.
Few cities are better suited to outdoor drinking. One minute you’re wandering medieval avenues, the next you’re discovering a hidden courtyard tucked behind centuries-old buildings or enjoying cocktails overlooking the city’s famous skyline. From lazy afternoon pints beside the River Ouse to elevated date nights with views of York Minster, there is a space here for every occasion.
Hungry too? Make a full day of it with our guide to the best restaurant offers in York.
The Star Inn The City
Credit: The Starr Inn the City
For riverside drinking, it doesn’t get much better than The Star Inn The City. Set beside the River Ouse, its spacious terrace combines relaxed alfresco dining with one of York’s most picturesque waterside settings. It’s equally suited to long summer lunches, evening cocktails or celebratory dinners as the sun sets over the river.
The kitchen, inspired by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Pern, champions seasonal Yorkshire produce with menus changing throughout the year. The drinks list is equally impressive, with everything from local ales to premium English sparkling wines and Champagne.
Where to go: The Star Inn The City, Lendal Engine House, Museum Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7DR.
When to go: 11am–11pm Monday–Thursday, 9:30am–12am Friday–Saturday, 9:30am–10pm Sunday.
What to order: A chilled glass of Chapel Down English sparkling wine makes the perfect accompaniment to seafood or one of the restaurant’s seasonal specials. If you’re visiting on the last Sunday of the month, time your visit with Sunset Sunday for live jazz or acoustic music on the terrace.
Sora Sky Bar
Credit: SORA
If you’re looking to elevate your evening – quite literally – Sora sits high above the city on the seventh floor of Malmaison York. It’s the closest thing York has to a true rooftop destination, with panoramic views stretching across the city’s rooftops towards York Minster. During the day it’s an elegant setting for lunch, cocktails or afternoon tea, while weekends bring resident DJs, live saxophone players and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
The Japanese-inspired food is every bit as impressive as the views. Expect beautifully presented sushi, robatayaki grills, sharing plates and creative cocktails infused with flavours such as yuzu, ume and Japanese seven spice.
Where to go: Sora, Malmaison, 2 Rougier Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO90 1UU.
When to go: 12pm–12am Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 12pm–1am Friday and Saturday (closed Monday and Tuesday except selected Bank Holidays).
What to order: The Cherry Blossom Negroni is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail, while the fiery Togarashi Margarita pairs brilliantly with crispy rice bites or sushi rolls.
Guy Fawkes Inn
Credit: Guy Fawkes Inn
Steeped in history and sitting in the shadow of York Minster, Guy Fawkes Inn has one of the city’s most atmospheric outdoor spaces. Behind the centuries-old buildings you’ll find a beautifully landscaped beer garden that’s surprisingly spacious, offering a peaceful escape from York’s busy streets while still sitting right in the heart of the city.
Inside you’ll find roaring fires and historic character, while outside the garden offers plenty of seating beneath canopies with heaters for cooler evenings. The menu celebrates modern British cooking alongside an excellent wine list and regional real ales.
Where to go: Guy Fawkes Inn, 25 High Petergate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7HP.
When to go: 12pm–10pm Sunday–Thursday, 12pm–11pm Friday–Saturday.
What to order: Pair a crisp Picpoul de Pinet with one of the seasonal British dishes, or simply settle in with a local ale while soaking up one of York’s most historic settings.
SPARK York
Credit: SPARK York
Colourful, independent and packed with personality, SPARK York offers one of the city’s liveliest outdoor drinking experiences. Built from repurposed shipping containers, this open-air venue brings together independent food traders, four bars and a packed calendar of events ranging from creative workshops to live entertainment.
Its communal seating creates a buzzing atmosphere that’s ideal for groups, while the varied food offering means everyone can order exactly what they fancy. There are regular promotions throughout the week too, including 2-for-1 drinks on Mondays and budget-friendly lunch deals.
Where to go: SPARK York, 17-21 Piccadilly, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9PB.
When to go: 8am–10:30pm Monday–Thursday, 8am–11pm Friday, 9am–11pm Saturday, 9am–9pm Sunday.
What to order: A refreshing Hugo Spritz is made for sunny afternoons, while the tropical Guava Colada has become one of this summer’s standout cocktails.
The Phoenix Inn
Credit: The Phoenix Inn
Sometimes a classic, straightforward pub is exactly what’s needed, and The Phoenix Inn delivers exactly that. Hidden beside York’s ancient city walls, this independent pub has built a loyal following thanks to its peaceful beer garden, excellent cask ales and traditional atmosphere.
There’s no blaring music or television screens competing for your attention here. Instead you’ll find locals enjoying carefully kept real ales, sunshine filtering through the flowers and one of York’s most relaxing outdoor drinking spots.
Where to go: The Phoenix Inn, 75 George Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9PT.
When to go: 1pm–11pm Monday–Friday, 12pm–11pm Saturday–Sunday.
What to order: One of the constantly rotating Yorkshire cask ales is the obvious choice. Grab a locally made pork pie alongside your pint and settle in for an afternoon watching the world go by.
Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen
Credit: Fancy Hanks
If cocktails and barbecue are more your style, Fancy Hank’s offers a hidden courtyard just off Goodramgate that’s perfect for relaxed summer drinks. While it’s more intimate than some of York’s larger terraces, that only adds to its charm, creating a cosy spot tucked away in the historic Minster Quarter.
The menu celebrates Southern American comfort food, from smoked barbecue and fried chicken to towering burgers, while Happy Hour and regular themed offers make it a popular choice throughout the week.
Where to go: Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen, 39 Goodramgate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7LS.
When to go: 12pm–9pm Monday–Friday, 10am–9pm Saturday–Sunday.
What to order: The Heart of Dixie cocktail perfectly captures summer with its blend of Malibu, Aperol, passionfruit and citrus. Pair it with a plate of slow-cooked BBQ or crispy fried chicken for the full Deep South experience.
