Old White Swan
What's it good for?
The Old White Swan is perfect for anyone looking for decent beer and good pub grub in the centre of town.
Where is it?
Goodramgate winds its way through the north of York from Monk Bar on the city walls to the junction with Low Petergate at King's Square, as one of the main arteries into town it has historically hosted many pubs along the route with 7 on the street today.
Walking into town, the last pub on Goodramgate is The Old White Swan, a collection of interconnected buildings around a lovely courtyard that has stood as a coaching house since the 16th century.
The courtyard acts a lure to draw you in from the hustle and bustle of the town centre as a quiet oasis under a Victorian glass roof. The pub is rarely empty, but with the majority of the floor-space handed over to the dining, it is usually calm.
What's it all about?
The "Mucky Duck" has changed over the years without me really noticing it - until now. The town-centre local's boozer where I used to go to Big Ian's quiz and drink cheap lager on the weekends has morphed into a gastro-pub, welcoming tourist and locals alike with an impressive selection of real ales.
My personal history of visiting places will obviously tend to influence my judgement of the pubs in York which is why I always re-visit them to see how they are now rather then rely on those distant memories.
I'm glad I did because the Old White Swan has cleaned itself up with a recent full refurbishment and a clear focus on a quality product, I think this is now one of the best all round pubs in the center of town.
What's on the bar?
There are 10 pumps of well-kept real ale with plenty of guests, a wide range of bottled beers and keg taps, wine list, cocktails, gin selection, it's safe to say it's a well stocked bar and can cater for all.
Do they serve food?
Yes, more than half the pub is devoted to food and the menu is extensive. As The Old White Swan is part of the Nicholson's chain it benefits from a rotating menu that is refreshed every 6 months.
It's broadly the standard pub menu you would expect but with some more upmarket choices, for example the first burger is a Wild Boar and Chorizo Burger.
Is it accessible / allow kids / dogs?
Yes, the Old White Swan is level throughout and had a large sign up saying dogs were welcome in certain areas. Kids are also welcome as long as the family are eating.
Will you go again?
I'm thinking about going back already, with the wide range of beers and a Sunday Lunch on offer I'll need to review that soon!
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