Tank & Paddle York: Craft Beer Haven in a Historic Merchant Exchange
A vibrant craft beer bar in York’s historic Merchant Exchange, blending industrial charm with regional brews and lively riverside views.
Tank & Paddle York is a vibrant craft beer bar located in the historic Merchant Exchange building on Bridge Street. Known for its extensive selection of regional craft beers, cask ales, and gins, it offers a unique blend of industrial charm and modern vintage style. With a suntrap balcony overlooking the River Ouse, sourdough pizzas, and an energetic atmosphere featuring live sports on multiple screens, it’s a top spot for beer lovers and casual diners alike.
A brief summary to York Beach
- Merchant Exchange, 1 Bridge St, York, YO1 6DD, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during summer to enjoy the suntrap balcony overlooking the River Ouse.
- Try the sourdough pizzas with unique toppings like Sweet Chilli Duck for a local twist.
- Book a gin masterclass to deepen your appreciation of regional and classic gins.
- Check the schedule for live sports events on the 19 screens for an energetic atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services that stop near York city centre; from the main bus station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to Merchant Exchange. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£4.
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Train
York Railway Station is approximately 1.5 km from Tank & Paddle. A taxi or a 20-minute walk along city streets will get you there. Taxi fares range from £5-£8 depending on traffic.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber operate widely in York city centre. Typical journey times from central locations are under 10 minutes, with fares usually between £5 and £10.
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Walking
If you are staying in central York, walking to Tank & Paddle is easy and scenic, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and wheelchair accessible.
York Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about York Beach
Historic Setting Meets Modern Craft Beer Culture
Tank & Paddle York is housed in the former Merchant Exchange building, a structure that retains much of its original industrial character. This historic backdrop provides a distinctive atmosphere that blends heritage with contemporary style. The venue underwent a significant £400,000 transformation, resulting in a cool vintage aesthetic that appeals to both locals and visitors. The combination of exposed brickwork, industrial fixtures, and carefully curated vintage décor creates a welcoming yet dynamic environment.A Premier Destination for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
The bar is renowned for its impressive selection of craft beers, including regional brews such as Brew York and Ilkley Pale, alongside popular cask ales like Black Sheep and Roosters. It is notable for being the first northern bar to feature large tanks of Meantime's Brewery Fresh, offering beer straight from the source. This dedication to quality and variety makes Tank & Paddle a must-visit for those seeking authentic and innovative beer experiences.Gins, Masterclasses, and Culinary Delights
Beyond beer, Tank & Paddle offers an extensive gin menu featuring regional favorites like Yorkshire Dales Distillery and classics such as Slingsby. The venue hosts gin masterclasses, where guests can learn about the spirit’s nuances, garnish selection, and cocktail creation. Food-wise, the bar serves a variety of sourdough pizzas with creative toppings, from traditional Pepperoni and BBQ Chicken to more adventurous options like Sweet Chilli Duck and Smoky Sloppy Joe, complementing the drinks perfectly.Atmosphere and Entertainment
With 19 screens broadcasting major sporting events, Tank & Paddle is a lively hub for sports fans. The newly added balcony offers a sunny spot with views of the River Ouse, enhancing the social experience during warmer months. The venue is dog-friendly and family-style, making it inclusive and welcoming. Live music and a full bar further enrich the vibrant atmosphere.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 1 Bridge Street in York’s city centre, Tank & Paddle benefits from a central location within the Merchant Exchange. The area is rich in history and close to other attractions, making it an ideal stop for visitors exploring York. The bar is wheelchair accessible and offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, highchairs, and digital payment options, ensuring comfort and convenience.Community and Cultural Significance
Tank & Paddle plays a role in promoting local breweries and distilleries, supporting Yorkshire’s craft beverage scene. It serves as a cultural meeting point where tradition meets innovation, reflecting York’s blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The venue’s commitment to quality and community engagement highlights its importance beyond just a drinking spot, contributing to the city’s dynamic social fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ouse Bridge
0.1 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Historic England - York Office
0.3 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Parliament St
0.3 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
0.4 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.4 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.4 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.4 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
York Castle Museum
0.5 km
Explore the captivating history of York at the York Castle Museum, where the past comes alive through immersive exhibits and engaging displays.
Micklegate Bar
0.5 km
Explore the historical significance of Micklegate Bar, a majestic gateway that tells the story of York's medieval past.
The Norman House
0.5 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.5 km
Explore the depths of history at DIG in York, where archaeology comes alive through interactive exhibits and hands-on adventures for all ages.
Multangular Tower
0.5 km
Discover the historical Multangular Tower in York, a remarkable relic of Roman architecture nestled within the tranquil York Museum Gardens.
York Oratory
0.5 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Original Ghost Walk of York
0.1 km
York's longest-running ghost tour—authentic paranormal history told nightly by passionate guides.
York Gift Center
0.1 km
Discover authentic York souvenirs and local crafts in a charming historic gift shop nestled in the heart of the city.
The Spurriergate Centre
0.1 km
A historic 12th-century church transformed into a vibrant community café and Christian centre in the heart of York.
The York Dungeon
0.2 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
All Saints North Street, York - The Shrine and Parish Church
0.2 km
A medieval York church with breathtaking 15th-century stained glass and a rebuilt anchorite’s cell, offering quiet reflection and a vivid glimpse into medieval faith and art.
The York Cat Trail
0.2 km
Discover York’s historic streets through a whimsical trail of cat statues blending folklore, art, and city heritage.
Coney St
0.2 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
City Screen Picturehouse
0.2 km
A lively independent cinema and cultural venue in York blending film, live entertainment, and a welcoming cafe-bar atmosphere.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.2 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Hooting Owl Distillery York
0.2 km
York’s first city distillery: where craft gin, rum and vodka meet myth, magic and a touch of owl-inspired flair in a stylish bar-lounge.
St Mary's Church
0.2 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.3 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
York Army Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
Parish of All Saints, Pavement
0.3 km
Discover York’s historic All Saints, Pavement—home to a medieval lantern tower beacon and centuries of rich heritage in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Corner Grill House
0.1 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.1 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
The Whippet Inn
0.1 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
Kapadokya
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Ate O'Clock
0.2 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.2 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
Rustique Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
The Olive Tree
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Pavement Vaults
0.3 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Wine Stories
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.3 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
The Cut & Craft York
0.3 km
Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greybear
0.0 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
York Souvenir's
0.1 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Hidden Treasures
0.2 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Fenwick York
0.3 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Cello by Collectables
0.4 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.4 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Gift Gallery
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Paper Doll
0.4 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Take One Gifts
0.4 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.4 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
The Medieval Scribe
0.4 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.4 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tank & Paddle York
0.0 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Jalou York
0.1 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.1 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Plonkers
0.1 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.1 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Revolution York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
The Three Tuns
0.2 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.2 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lendal Cellars
0.3 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
The Maltings
0.3 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Golden Fleece York
0.3 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Victor J's
0.3 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
