Chapter House

What's it good for?

Beautiful cocktails with amazing bar snacks in relaxed surroundings.

Where is it?

Whether a visitor to York or a resident using the local transport links, it's inevitable that you'll pass by the station at some point (and with the York Tap situated here there is no reason not to visit the station once in a while).

However, while you are in the city looking for places to eat and drink it's very easy to be drawn towards pubs, bars, and restaurants and overlook what our hotels have to offer the public.

Among a growing list of hotels that are opening up their bars and restaurants to be more outward looking is the Royal York Hotel and their restaurant The Refectory, and the adjoining bar The Chapter House which has wonderful views of the city walls and plenty of people-watching opportunities overlooking the station entrance.

What's it all about?

The primary reason for visiting is the cocktails and the snacks which will be covered later in the review, but also The Chapter House has managed to pull off an atmosphere that is both welcoming and cozy in such a grand space. Much of this can also be attributed to their staff who have all been nothing short of exemplary on every visit.

There are a couple of rooms, each crammed full of deep button-backed leather chairs and seating booths, perfect for unwinding in or meeting up for pre-dinner drinks or celebration.

(N.B. on a recent visit they have removed the majority of the comfortable seating in the front room and replaced them with utilitarian bench tables and stools, which I'm sure will allow many more people to be seated on race days but I hope the normal layout is restored once the racegoers have departed as in my opinion this new layout spoils what made The Chapter House front room so special.)

What's on the bar?

The main event is the cocktail menu which contains some staple classics and is also regularly updated with some new creations. Our favourite was a Bloody Maria - a Bloody Mary spiked with tequila that is no longer on the menu but can still be made for you - and a classic Dark and Stormy.

There is one pump which at the time I visited had York Guzzler and also a keg tap which was pouring York Legion IX. There was also a range of local beers in bottles that are also on rotation alongside a strong wine list.

Do they serve food?

There is a great snack menu with various hot dishes such as Smoked Honey Chipolatas, Crispy Squid with Lemon Aioli, and Yorkshire Cured Meats with Gherkins. If you're looking for something more substantial then there is a selection of main dishes such as Dry-aged Beefburger, Smoked Haddock and Leek Rarebit, and Eggs Benedict which now I've spotted, will have to return to try out.

Is it accessible / allow kids / dogs?

The main entrance to the bar is a short but steep flight of stairs. Chapter House is accessible to wheelchairs through the hotel entrance, which is a bit of a trek around the building.

On asking, Chapter House say that "Guide dogs and well behaved children are welcome".

Will you go again?

Yes, although due to the price it probably won't become one of my regular haunts but Chapter House provides an unstuffy yet upmarket place to meet and splash out on luxury once in a while.

Opening Hours

Daily : 12:00 - 01:00