Blue Bell

What's it good for?

Good beer in an untouched, traditional pub.

Where is it?

Right at the top of Fossgate opposite The Hop, the Blue Bell is one of the smallest and oldest pubs in York. Untouched for years the Blue Bell provides a tiny enclave to regulars and those in the know from the hustle around it.

What's it all about?

The Blue Bell has attracted some controversy over the years, most notably for its "Private Party" sign that gets pinned to the door whenever York Races is on or on particularly busy Saturday nights to discourage groups from trying to squeeze in.

Taken alone I completely agree with this standpoint (although a "No Large Groups" sign would be more appropriate). The pub is tiny and can't accommodate more than 60 due to fire regulations and without door staff this is the simplest way to keep people out. Saying that I'd rather not be in there with more than 30 as at that level it starts to feel cramped.

If you combine this stance with the comments from the landlord about only wanting to let in 'real regulars' and that it would refuse entry to 'weirdy beardies' visiting the pub, I can see why some would take exception to it.

One thing you do find is that the limited space does encourage interaction with the other people in the bar, you inevitably end up sharing a table and then sharing a conversation. I can't remember the last time I went to the Blue Bell and didn't end up chatting to the people around me.

The front room hosts the bar and looks to have been untouched for decades, a rarity in the centre of town with refurbishments continuing apace. At the rear is a candle lit oak panelled Smoke Room with an open fire, served through a chest height hatch you have to crouch to order thorough.

Running down the corridor are a couple of fold-down wooden seats to perch on like an Edwardian train vestibule, utilising every last space in the place to squeeze people in.

What's on the bar?

The Blue Bell keep their beers very well, there is usually Timothy Taylor's Landlord, Bradfield Farmer's Blonde and Bitter, Rudgate Ruby Mild, alongside a few other local guests and a couple of real ciders. The fridge is stocked with a wide range of imported beers but you'll need to be in the front room to see the list of beers.

Do they serve food?

I've seen a selection sandwiches available at lunch but don't count on it, you're on Fossgate so there are plenty of options for food, just head down the street and pick something you like the look of.

Is it accessible / allow kids / dogs?

Steps at the doorway. It does allow dogs but no children are allowed.

Will you go again?

I'll pop in to meet friends who are there, but I rarely choose to go purely because I doubt we'll get a table.

Opening Hours

Monday - Saturday 11:00 - 23:00 Sunday 12:00 - 22:30