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The Black Swan: York’s Historic Timber-Framed Pub with 17th Century Charm

Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York with original oak interiors, live folk and jazz music, and a charming outdoor deck.

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The Black Swan in York is a distinguished 17th-century timber-framed house turned pub, renowned for its exceptional historic interior featuring original oak panelling, fireplaces, and a seventeenth-century staircase. Located on Peasholme Green, this atmospheric pub offers multiple intimate rooms, a lively folk club, and a decked outdoor drinking area, blending centuries of history with vibrant local culture.

A brief summary to The Black Swan

  • 23 Peasholme Grn, York, YO1 7DE, GB
  • +441904679131
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Wednesday evenings to enjoy live jazz performances in the upstairs function room.
  • Explore the Oak Room to admire the exquisite 17th-century oak panelling and historic fireplaces.
  • Try to visit during warmer months to relax in the decked outdoor drinking area at the rear.
  • The pub is family-friendly but does not allow dogs except guide dogs.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take York’s local bus services to the nearby bus stops on Foss Islands Road or George Hudson Street, approximately 10-15 minutes travel from York city center. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £2-£4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from York city center to The Black Swan typically take 5-10 minutes depending on traffic and cost about £5-£8. This is a convenient option especially in the evening or with luggage.

  • Walking

    From York city center, a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along city streets brings you to Peasholme Green. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.

The Black Swan location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Black Swan

A Living Medieval Timber-Framed Landmark

The Black Swan stands as a remarkable example of York’s rich architectural heritage. Originally built in the 15th century as a family home for the Bowes family, it was converted into a pub in the late 18th century. The building’s timber-framed structure and twin-gabled frontage with a jettied first floor evoke a distinctly medieval character. Despite alterations over the centuries, many original features remain intact, including a seventeenth-century staircase and doorways that transport visitors back in time.

Intricate Interiors of National Historic Importance

Inside, the Black Swan boasts an interior of outstanding historic significance. The walls of the Oak Room are lined with exquisite 17th-century oak panelling, complemented by a grand brick fireplace with a wood surround that may date back even further. The pub’s 1930s refurbishment by the Tadcaster Tower brewery was designed to preserve and highlight these historic elements, creating a prestige project that respected the building’s heritage. The public bar, known as the Ingle Bar, features a large brick inglenook fireplace and original settle benches, enhancing the warm, authentic atmosphere.

A Hub for York’s Folk and Jazz Music Scene

Beyond its architectural allure, the Black Swan serves as a vibrant cultural venue. The upstairs function room hosts the Black Swan Folk Club, a beloved gathering spot for live folk music enthusiasts. On alternate Wednesday evenings, live jazz performances add to the pub’s lively and welcoming ambiance. This blend of historic charm and contemporary entertainment makes the Black Swan a unique social hub in York.

Atmosphere and Outdoor Spaces

The pub’s character is further enriched by its three separate rooms downstairs, each offering a cozy and intimate setting. The decked outdoor drinking area at the rear provides a pleasant space to enjoy a drink during warmer months, sheltered yet open to the city’s atmosphere. The combination of historic interiors and inviting outdoor spaces ensures a memorable visit year-round.

Preservation and Recognition

The Black Swan is a Grade II* listed building, reflecting its exceptional architectural and historic value. It is one of York’s finest surviving examples of a timber-framed domestic building adapted for public house use. The preservation of original features such as oak panelling, fireplaces, and staircases underscores the pub’s importance as a cultural and historic asset within the city.

Experience a Timeless York Institution

Visiting The Black Swan is stepping into a piece of York’s living history. Whether you are drawn by the historic interiors, the music scene, or the welcoming atmosphere, the pub offers a rich experience that connects past and present. Its blend of medieval architecture, 17th-century craftsmanship, and vibrant local culture makes it a must-see destination for visitors exploring York’s heritage.

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