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The Golden Fleece York: Historic Haunted Pub and Cozy Inn

York’s oldest haunted pub blending centuries of history, cozy charm, and hearty British fare in a lively city-center setting.

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Nestled in the heart of York, The Golden Fleece is a 16th-century pub famed for its haunted atmosphere, traditional ales, and hearty British fare. With its quirky character, historic charm, and cozy heated garden, it offers a unique blend of history and hospitality. The pub also features four ensuite guest rooms, allowing visitors to immerse themselves overnight in one of England’s most storied inns.

A brief summary to Golden Fleece York

  • 16 Pavement, York, YO1 9UP, GB
  • +441904620491
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 11 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 11 am-12 am
  • Thursday 11 am-12 am
  • Friday 11 am-12 am
  • Saturday 11 am-12 am
  • Sunday 11 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the heated garden for a cozy outdoor drink, even in cooler months.
  • Book a stay in one of the four guest rooms to experience the pub’s haunted ambiance overnight.
  • Try classic pub dishes like lamb kofta or a full English breakfast for authentic local flavors.
  • Explore the pub’s quirky historic features such as the wonky floors, suits of armor, and skeleton displays.
  • Consider private hire of the function room for intimate events with a unique historic atmosphere.
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Golden Fleece York location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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A Storied Past and Haunted Legacy

The Golden Fleece stands as one of York’s oldest pubs, with origins dating back to at least 1503. Its timber-framed structure and uneven floors reflect centuries of history, lending the building a distinctive, wonky charm. The pub is renowned throughout England as one of the most haunted inns, with numerous ghost stories, spectral sightings, and eerie legends woven into its fabric. Visitors often remark on the mysterious atmosphere, from shadowy corners to the suits of armor and skeleton displays that add to its spooky allure.

Atmosphere and Setting

Entering The Golden Fleece, you are greeted by a narrow frontage leading into a bustling, lively bar filled with traditional wooden furnishings and historic décor. The pub’s heated garden provides a welcoming outdoor space for year-round alfresco drinking and dining, a rare feature in the city center. The ambience combines quirky, historic charm with casual warmth, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic British pub experience.

Food, Drink, and Hospitality

The Golden Fleece offers a menu of classic pub dishes, from hearty full English breakfasts to well-loved mains such as lamb kofta, lasagne, and scampi. The food is designed to be satisfying and affordable, complementing a wide selection of traditional ales and wines. The pub’s friendly, laid-back service enhances the welcoming vibe, while the bar often features background music and screens for major sporting events, adding to the convivial atmosphere.

Accommodation and Unique Stays

Beyond the pub, The Golden Fleece provides four ensuite guest rooms upstairs. These rooms allow guests to extend their visit and soak in the historic and haunted ambiance overnight. While the building’s age means some quirks in maintenance, the rooms are praised for their character and comfort. Staying here offers a rare chance to experience York’s history intimately, with the added thrill of sleeping in a reputedly haunted inn.

Location and Cultural Significance

Situated at 16 Pavement, The Golden Fleece is perfectly positioned in York’s city center, just steps from iconic attractions like The Shambles, York Minster, and the Jorvik Viking Centre. This prime location makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s rich medieval heritage. The pub itself is a cultural landmark, embodying centuries of York’s social and architectural history.

Events and Private Hire

The Golden Fleece also offers private hire options, including a versatile function room on the first floor accommodating up to 35 guests. This space suits a variety of occasions, from business meetings to private celebrations, providing a customizable setting within a historic backdrop. The pub’s lively atmosphere and unique character make it a memorable venue for events.

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