Yorkshire is a county steeped in history – and it’s also a county that appreciates a good bevvy.
These old pubs in Yorkshire blend a rich heritage with gorgeous settings and a top-notch selection of drinks. What more could you ask for? We’ve rounded up some of our favourite historic Yorkshire pubs – the only question is which will you visit first?
The Bingley Arms, Leeds
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When it comes to historic Yorkshire pubs, The Bingley Arms wears the crown. This isn’t just the oldest pub in the county but the whole of England, dating back over 1,000 years to 953 AD.
That’s right, the Arms had its start during Viking times and today, it serves up warm interiors, a selection of beers and comforting, classic pub grub, including a Sunday lunch menu. Set your sails to Bardsey to experience this gem for yourself.
The Bingley Arms, Church Lane, Bardsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS17 9DR.
Old Queen’s Head, Sheffield
Credit: Stuart Croker
Hailed as the oldest domestic building in Sheffield, the Old Queen’s Head is steeped in Tudor charm. Dating back as far as 1475, it was once known as ‘The Hawle at the Poandes’, but its name today is a reference to Mary, Queen of Scots, who was imprisoned in the steel city. +
The medieval building is reportedly haunted, but it’s worth braving a visit for their hospitality, tasty drinks and food, including a Sunday roast, and fun events, from quiz nights to live entertainment.
The Old Queen’s Head, 40 Pond Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 2BG.
The Old Bridge Inn, Ripponden
This whitewashed, Grade-II listed pub stands proud in the village of Ripponden, near Halifax, with a story that spans back to 1307. It sits pretty on the old packhouse bridge over the River Ryburn, bidding you to come inside its cosy, wood-beamed interiors and enjoy a drink.
It’s been owned by the same family since 1963 and they know a thing or two about running a fantastic public house, with real ale and hearty modern cuisine on offer, including a Sunday menu and even afternoon tea.
The Old Bridge Inn, Priest Lane, Ripponden, Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX6 4DF.
The Golden Fleece, York
In a city known for its rich history and ghostly inhabitants, The Golden Fleece is renowned as York’s most haunted hub. Handily located in the city centre, and just a stone’s throw from The Shambles, it dates back to 1503 and was referenced in the York City Archive.
But from friendly phantoms to thirsty patrons, it gives one hell of a good welcome, with its well-stocked bar, mouth-watering food menu, live music and even on-site accommodation if you fancy staying the night.
The Golden Fleece, 16 Pavement, York, North Yorkshire, YO19UP.
Ye Olde White Harte, Hull
Credit: Neil Holmes
As far as oldest Yorkshire pubs go, this one has a firm standing in the history books. Built in 1550, it’s said to be the location where the Governor of Hull hatched a plot in 1642 that led to the beginning of the English Civil War. It survived a devastating 19th-century fire to continue standing as East Yorkshire’s most historic pub.
Pay it a visit to appreciate the oak panelling, old tiled fireplaces and award-winning cask conditioned ales. You can even see a human skull on display, which was discovered in the establishment. Now, you won’t get that at your local!
Ye Olde White Harte, 25 Silver Street, Hull, East Yorkshire, HU1 1JG.
