The Old White Swan
Cask ales and a traditional pub menu, served in a 16th-century building with its own ghost.. Located at 80 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF, UK
About
The Old White Swan: A Historic York Pub Experience
Step back in time at The Old White Swan, a traditional pub in the heart of York. This 16th-century building offers a warm welcome, a good pint of cask ale, and a menu of classic pub fare – all while potentially sharing your space with its resident ghost. With a 4.4 out of 5-star rating based on over 3000 reviews, The Old White Swan is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
What to Expect
The Old White Swan offers a genuine pub experience. Its historic building creates a unique ambiance, setting it apart from more modern establishments. Reviews often mention the "cozy" atmosphere, both inside and in the outdoor seating area. Expect a lively environment, especially during live music performances. The pub welcomes families, groups, and even dogs, making it a versatile spot for a casual meal or a night out. Matthew, who works at the front door, receives particularly positive mentions in customer reviews.
Dining & Services
The Old White Swan serves beer, wine, and cocktails. The pub also offers takeout and dine-in options. Reservations are available, and the premises are wheelchair accessible. Opening hours are listed below:
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Please note: These are the business's opening hours and kitchen hours may differ.
Location & Atmosphere
Located in the heart of the city center, The Old White Swan is easily accessible. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere regardless of the weather. If you are looking for other places to visit, Wildwood and Golden Lion are located nearby. Live music adds to the pub's vibrant atmosphere. Reviews often highlight the friendly and welcoming staff, creating a pleasant experience for all. The pub is known for its lively atmosphere.
Why Visit The Old White Swan?
The Old White Swan offers a unique blend of history, atmosphere, and good pub fare. With a moderate price level, it provides good value for your money. According to one 5-star review, The Old White Swan "exceeded my expectations in a number of ways." The reviewer went for the Sunday roast and "would have loved staying longer." Another customer, guided by a York tour guide, raved about the bacon and cheese burger: "The burger was full of flavour." The pub's 4.4-star rating and the positive feedback from over 3000 reviews suggest a consistent and enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal, a refreshing pint, or a glimpse into York's past, The Old White Swan is worth a visit. You might even encounter a ghost!
Diner Reviews
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The reviews below were last updated on Tuesday, 16 December 2025 at 12:55.
Lovely a cozy pub inside and outside. We had the food and the steak pie was amazing. We stayed for the life music and the atmosphere was really good and the guy working at the front door (Matthew) is definitely the best promoter to bring people in the pub. Hopefully people behind the bar can learn from him as they were a bit moody. Overall great pub and definitely when we are back in York we would come back here.
Perfect. Honestly, The Old White Swan exceeded my expectations in a number of ways. We went for the Sunday roast but I would have loved staying longer than we did. A lovely duo started playing music just as we finished. The food, service and atmosphere were all exceptional. The only bad part was we waited till our last day in York to visit OWS!! I think my favorite thing was the decor and interior atmosphere of the dining room, the bar area and the lovely covered outdoor area which were all nicely done and inviting.
Found the white swan after being requested to go from our York tour guide. I quite fancied a burger so I went ahead and ordered the bacon and cheese burger. The burger was full of flavour and definitely hit the spot. The service was elite from the bar and they were kind enough to check if our food was alright after receiving it. It was a great experience and definitely deserves a high rating.
Went for lunch with our dog and sat inside. What a beautiful old pub. Very atmospheric. Really friendly staff and the food was delicious. The lunch sandwiches come with chips or salad.
*A Cozy Gem in the Heart of York! 🍻** The Old White Swan is an absolute delight! Stepping inside feels like a warm embrace from history, with its charming wooden beams, crackling fireplace, and vintage decor that whispers tales of York’s past. The atmosphere is effortlessly inviting—perfect for a relaxed pint or a hearty meal. The staff here are fantastic—friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about making your visit memorable. They recommended a local ale (which was superb!) and ensured our orders arrived promptly. Don’t miss their lovely beer garden—a sunny oasis tucked away from the bustle. It’s easy to see why this pub is a local favorite. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just craving a cozy spot, The Old White Swan delivers. Great value for money, too! We’ll definitely be back. A must-visit in York—cheers to this timeless gem! �🍴
Location
📍 80 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF, UK
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Address
80 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF, UK