The Winning Post

What's it good for?

The Winning Post provides a much needed family friendly pub in the middle of South Bank.

Where is it?

As the name suggests, The Winning Post is ideally located for a pint after a day at the racecourse and until recently this was some of the only trade that would pass through its doors.

Although on "Bishy Road" and bang in the middle of thousands of homes, most locals would regularly walk straight past The Winning Post on their way to The Swan/The Slip Inn, The Golden Ball, or into town due to The Winning Post's drab interior, crap selection of watery lagers, and dwindling ragtag bunch of regulars who enjoyed the drab interior and crap selection of watery lagers.

The Winning Post has been calling out for some time now for someone to refurbish the building, spruce up the drinks list, and bring a family atmosphere back to an area bereft of a community pub on their doorstep.

Plenty of people have talked about the opportunity presented by The Winning Post but thankfully someone finally stepped forward and Malcolm and Fiona took over in late 2015 and have set to work on a huge transformation project.

What's it all about?

As the newest member of the "Bishy Road" association, The Winning Post is setting its stall out early with "community" at the heart of its ethos.

The main lounge has been refurbished, with the other areas sealed off until completed, making the pub a much more manageable size at relaunch. The furnishings are tasteful and the decor subtle allowing the place to find its new identity as it grows.

There are grand plans with a lot of work to do in the overgrown beer garden, the large Phoenix Nights-esque function room to the rear, and the soon to be reopened kitchens all to complete, it's an exciting time at The Winning Post.

Every time I've been in the staff have been welcoming, the atmosphere friendly, and the drinks in excellent condition, a far cry from the old days.

What's on the bar?

Saltaire Blonde and Otter Bitter provided the session ales with Camerons Strongarm to complete the trio. Once the pub gets a firm foothold I expect a guest pump or two to appear with some more interesting beers on but for now this seems like a wise choice for throughput and the quality is excellent.

There was a wide range of red, white, and rose wine on offer as well as two types of prosecco. The spirit collection looked to be well tailored with the likes of Edinburgh Gin and some interesting single malts on offer.

Finally, the crap selection of watery lagers has been replaced with a more robust lineup with Birra Moretti leading the way.

Do they serve food?

Not yet - but watch this space. While I was there work was being done to get the kitchen up and running. Perhaps I'll be back soon to continue my search for York's best Sunday lunch? Food is now being served!

Is it accessible / allow kids / dogs?

There is a small doorstep at the front door, but once inside the pub is large and flat throughout with wide passageways.

The Winning Post is aiming to be an inclusive family pub, so kids and dogs are both welcome.

Will you go again?

Yes, I'm looking forward to seeing the transformation continue allowing me to update this review as the pub evolves, I just hope Enterprise Inns give the new tenants the space to make this pub great.

Opening Hours

Mon-Thurs: 17:00 - 23:00 Fri: 17:00 - 00:00 Sat: 12:00 - 00:00 Sun: 12:00 - 23:00