If you’re off to York for the races but don’t know the city too well, this guide will help you find the best places to go for a drink to carry on the fun.
We’ve picked out a selection of our favourites, ranging from cosy pubs to swanky cocktail bars, so no matter what you’re after there should be something on here for everyone.
Keep reading to discover the best places to drink in York after the races.
There’s so much going on at this quirky, independent bar lined with neon-lit walls adorned with work by local artists. In the morning the space is filled with sourdough breakfasts and flat whites galore and in the evening there are innovative, fun cocktails filling up the tables. Located in York’s foodie quarter, this is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner aperitif before enjoying some of the great food that Fossgate has to offer.
Drawing Board
Open until 4am all weekend, this is a popular end of the night haunt for the students in York and we can see why. The venue is almost like a maze with two bars downstairs and two floors worth of space for live events. They also serve amazing pizza if you’re feeling a bit peckish after a long night of drinking and dancing.
Evil Eye
Cocktail bar Evil Eye is well known amongst Yorks’ more distinguished drinkers. This bar holds the world record for the sheer quantity of gin behind its back bar, which totals over 1,000 bottles. Outside you’ll find a small graffiti-painted courtyard, whilst inside the bar is set over two levels. Not a fan of gin? Then opt for a cocktail instead – the menu is extensive.
Thor’s Tipi
A relatively new arrival to the York drinking scene, Thor’s Tipi began life as an outdoor pop-up for the festive season but has carried on this summer with two locations – one at The Principal hotel and another on Parliament street. Head down for frozen pornstar martinis, firepits and street food from a load of local traders.
Impossible
A new addition to York’s iconic St Helen’s square, Impossible bar can be found inside the beautiful former Terry’s chocolate orange building. Head down for cocktails like the ‘mad quacker’ (a twist on a white lady made with gin, lychee, and hibiscus) and the Terry’s Chocolate Orange martini. You won’t be disappointed.
Dusk
Describing itself as ‘Glastonbury without the wellies’, independent bar Dusk is a favourite for its 2 for 1 cocktail offer (which runs until 10 pm Friday to Sunday) – but you’ll also find a really great, diverse crowd here. Go for the offers, stay for the atmosphere.
Manahatta
Whether you’re after a few cocktails, a big cocktail tree or bottles direct to your table, New York-inspired bar Manahatta does it all. Open until 2am on the weekends, it’s a great place to carry on the party after the races.
Fossgate Tap
This cute looking old English pub, formerly known as Sutler’s, can be found in the heart of medieval York. A stone’s throw from The Smables – one of the most famous streets in York – the pub has partnered with local brewers Turning Point Brew Co to offer some of the freshest pints in the city. Of course, if that’s not your thing there’s a good selection of gins and wines to be found here too.
The Printer’s Apprentice
A three minute walk from York Minster, this charming little spot is a coffee house and cafe by day but come the evening it transforms into a gorgeous little drinking den. Head down for fine cocktails, ‘wine club’ and a seat in one of York’s oldest hospitality venues.
Revolution York
This individually-styled chain bar is a solid choice if you want to get your hands on some reasonably priced cocktails and kick bar after the races. You’ll find all the favourite heres – pornstars included, of course.
Feature image – Fossgate Tap.
