The Black Swan
Medieval timber-framed pub with 17th-century interiors and live cultural performances in historic York.
A 15th-century timber-framed house transformed into a distinguished pub, The Black Swan sits on Peasholme Green in York's historic core. Originally built as a family residence, it retains exceptional period features including 17th-century oak panelling, decorative fireplaces, and original beams throughout its intimate rooms. The pub serves as a cultural hub, hosting live jazz and folk performances while maintaining its character as a traditional English drinking establishment with a rear courtyard.
A brief summary to The Black Swan
- 23 Peasholme Grn, York, YO1 7DE, GB
- +441904679131
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
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 alternate Wednesday evenings for live jazz performances in the upstairs function room, creating an intimate musical experience within medieval walls.
- Request a table in the Oak Room, widely regarded as one of York's finest pub interiors, to fully appreciate the 17th-century oak panelling and period craftsmanship.
- Arrive during quieter afternoon hours to explore the building's architectural details without the evening crowd, allowing time to appreciate original beams and fireplaces.
- Use the rear decked courtyard as a peaceful retreat from Peasholme Green's activity, particularly pleasant during warmer months.
- Combine your visit with nearby heritage attractions including Merchant Taylors' Hall and DIG archaeological centre, all within short walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Black Swan location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Black Swan
Medieval Origins and Architectural Heritage
The Black Swan occupies a 15th-century timber-framed house originally constructed as a family residence for the Bowes family. The building's exterior displays characteristic medieval architecture with a twin-gabled front of two storeys and attic, featuring a jettied first floor typical of York's historic streetscape. In the late 18th century, the house underwent conversion into a pub, a transition that preserved rather than obliterated its domestic character. The structure's Grade II* listing reflects its outstanding national historic importance, recognising the survival of original elements that span centuries of occupation.Interior Splendour and Craftsmanship
The interior represents a masterclass in period preservation. The 1670 alterations survive largely intact, particularly evident in the celebrated Oak Room on the front left, considered one of York's finest pub interiors. Seventeenth-century oak-panelled walls encircle this room, complemented by a 1930s brick and timber fireplace surround. A four-sectioned ceiling and antique settle furnish the space with authentic period atmosphere. The Ingle Bar to the rear features a substantial brick inglenook fireplace, old settles, and cast-iron tables with copper tops, while a 1930s fielded bar counter provides service. Throughout the building, original features include a 17th-century staircase, decorated doorways, and fireplaces that anchor the pub's historical narrative.1930s Prestige Refurbishment
The 1930s refurbishment by Tadcaster Tower brewery represented a prestige project conceived with historical character as paramount concern. This sensitive intervention respected the building's medieval and 17th-century fabric while introducing period-appropriate modern amenities. The brewery's successors, Bass, maintained this philosophy, though some later alterations remain undocumented. The result is a pub interior of unquestionable distinction, where contemporary comfort coexists with authentic heritage without compromise to either.Contemporary Function and Atmosphere
Today, The Black Swan operates as both a traditional pub and cultural venue. Three separate downstairs rooms provide intimate drinking spaces, each with distinct character derived from original architectural elements. The flagstone passage running from the front door to the rear creates a journey through the building's layered history. An upstairs function room hosts the Black Swan Folk Club, while live jazz performances feature on alternate Wednesday evenings, establishing the pub as a focal point for York's cultural life. A pleasant decked outdoor drinking area to the rear offers respite from the bustling street.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 23 Peasholme Green, the pub occupies a prominent position within York's medieval core, adjacent to significant heritage sites and within walking distance of the Minster. The location places visitors at the heart of the city's historic quarter, where narrow streets and ancient buildings create an atmosphere of temporal continuity. Peasholme Green itself forms part of York's conservation area, reinforcing the pub's role as custodian of local heritage.Visitor Experience
The Black Swan welcomes visitors seeking authentic English pub culture infused with genuine historical atmosphere. The creaking oak stairway, sloping floors, and original beams create a sensory experience of stepping backward in time. Unlike themed establishments, every element derives from genuine historical occupation and preservation. The pub accommodates families during daytime hours and transforms into a more adult-oriented venue in evenings, particularly when live entertainment features. The combination of heritage, hospitality, and cultural programming makes it a destination for those valuing substance over novelty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Stonebow
0.1 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.3 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.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.3 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.3 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Sundial Column
0.4 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Roman Column
0.4 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
York Minster
0.5 km
Discover the grandeur of York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral steeped in history and architectural brilliance, perfect for visitors seeking cultural immersion.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.5 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
St Michael Le Belfrey
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting St Michael Le Belfrey, an Anglican church in York, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for spiritual reflection.
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.
Shadows of York Ghost Walk
0.5 km
Experience York's haunted history with the Shadows of York Ghost Walk, a thrilling journey through the city's ghostly past and chilling legends.
The York Cat Trail
0.5 km
Explore the York Cat Trail: A delightful journey through York's streets, where whimsical cat sculptures blend art, history, and fun.
The York Dungeon
0.5 km
Experience the chilling tales of York's past at The York Dungeon, where history, horror, and entertainment intersect for an unforgettable adventure.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.6 km
Visit Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress in York, and experience England's rich heritage and stunning views from this iconic landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.1 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
St Anthonys Garden
0.1 km
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
Peasholme Grn
0.1 km
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.2 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
York
0.2 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.2 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
York City Walls
0.2 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
0.3 km
Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
Bedern Hall
0.3 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
GR8escape York
0.3 km
Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Brew York
0.3 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
11 Shambles
0.3 km
Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
0.3 km
Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
The Potions Cauldron
0.3 km
Step into York’s enchanting Potions Cauldron on The Shambles for magical brews, immersive potion experiences, and wizarding wonders.
Essential places to dine
Arras
0.1 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Bab Tooma York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
The Blue Barbakan
0.3 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Little Italy
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Valhalla York
0.3 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.3 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Wildwood
0.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Pavement Vaults
0.4 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Give The Dog A Bone
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Gift Gallery
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Take One Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.3 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.3 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.3 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Expressions
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Pandora
0.3 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.3 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
Village Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Cleggs
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.3 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hop York
0.3 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Fossgate Social
0.3 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Blue Bell
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
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.
Royal Oak
0.3 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Pivní York
0.3 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Vudu Lounge
0.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Victor J's
0.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Social 8 Lounge
0.4 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Three Tuns
0.4 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Evil Eye
0.5 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.5 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
0.5 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
0.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Popworld York
0.8 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
0.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.8 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.9 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.9 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.4 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.0 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.3 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.3 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.4 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.5 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
