The Blue Bell

The Blue Bell is a Grade II* listed pub in Fossgate featuring a narrow hallway, a front public bar, and a wood-panelled smoke room in the rear section. The interior layout reflects the original house structure with distinct, intimate drinking spaces that define the traditional pub experience.

The building was originally a timber-framed house from the late 17th century and became a pub in 1798 under C. J. Melrose and Sons. In the early 1900s, it served as a gathering place for people who founded one of York's most prominent sports organizations.

The pub's origins as a meeting place for local sports figures shaped its identity in the community, with its small rooms encouraging close-knit gatherings that reflected how York residents spent their social time.

The pub maintains a 65-person capacity and limits large group sizes to preserve the traditional environment. This approach makes it better suited for smaller visits or solo travelers seeking a quieter experience.

A 1903 refurbishment introduced art nouveau glass panels and original Edwardian fittings that remain intact today. These early 1900s crafted details set this pub apart from most others of its age.

Location: City of York

GPS coordinates: 53.95870,-1.07919

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27