York and North Yorkshire are known for having some incredible pubs – and 12 of them have been named in a new guide.
The Telegraph’s guide to the Best Pubs in the UK for 2026 showcases the pubs that have “charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and, of course, award-winning beer”‘”.
And two of them are right here in York.
The Blue Bell, Fossgate
The Blue Bell, a Grade II listed public house first established in 1798, is York’s smallest pub.
The unique pub is known for its strict house rules, that have been in place since 1903, and is a must-visit for its quirk, charm, and great beer for locals and visitors alike.
The Telegraph wrote, “You know where you are at the Blue Bell. All the beer comes from Yorkshire, and there’s a (not very long) list of rules to abide by, the most important of which is not to turn up in a big group, because the pub is quite small (oh, and no mobile phone noise). If this sounds a bit miserable, it’s really not: this is a very lively, enjoyable pub.
“There are two rooms, the rear of which struck me as slightly calmer on my most recent visit. Most pints going over the bar appeared to be Rudgate Ruby Mild, a genuine modern classic (and one of my favourite beers).”
The Swan, Bishopgate Street
The Swan, on Bishopegate Street in Clementhorpe, is a Grade II listed historic pub was first built as a beer house and grocery in 1861.
It was redesigned in 1936, and surviving features from this refurb include the fitted seats, terrazzo floor, bell pushes, and toilets.
Its also known for its Swan Slip beer festival, which returns for 2026 at the end of August.
The Telegraph said, “The Swan doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside it’s magic.
“The preserved 1930s interior consists of two rooms – a Public Bar and a (slightly nicer) Smoke Room – and a connecting lobby in which you’ll find the bar itself.
“Some of the apparently humble decorative detail, such as the terrazzo flooring in the lobby, is marvellous. This layout offers both space and intimacy, and hence conversation flows. Located outside the city walls, the Swan also has a small garden.”
As well as the two pubs located in York, there are also 10 pubs in North Yorkshire that have received the accolade this year:
- Hales Bar, Harrogate
- The Jenny Wren, Beal
- The Birch Hall Inn, Beck Hole
- The Craven Arms, Skipton
- The Tan Hill Inn, Richmond
- The Queens Arms, Skipton
- The George & Dragon, Hudswell
- The White Bear, Gun Bank
- Blind Jack’s, Knaresborough
- The White Swan, Stokesley
To see the full guide, visit The Telegraph’s website.