Ye Olde Starre Inne, York

Ye Olde Starre Inne in York is a captivating monument to the city's rich history. Established with a timber-framed main block around the mid-16th century and an added wing from around 1600, this pub is heralded as York’s oldest and longest-serving drinking establishment. It has held its license continuously since 1644, and its iconic sign has been a feature on Stonegate since 1733, making it a prominent historical marker. In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, Ye Olde Starre Inne was designated a Grade II listed building in 1954.

Originally named "The Starre," the inn paid homage to King Charles I, reflecting the Royalist sentiments of the landlord during the tumultuous times of the English Civil War. However, following the Royalists' defeat, the property witnessed a dramatic shift as the victorious Roundheads took over, repurposing its ancient 10th-century cellar into a hospital and mortuary for their wounded and deceased soldiers.

The interior of the inn retains many period features, including an early-18th-century staircase, 17th- and 19th-century wooden paneling, and an array of stained glass and benches that contribute to its old-world charm. Visitors are often drawn not only to these historical elements but also to the pub’s strategic location, which offers stunning views of the upper parts of York Minster.

Ye Olde Starre Inne is also famed for its extensive selection of real ales and traditional English cuisine, enhancing the authentic pub experience. Moreover, it boasts a thrillingly spooky aspect with legends of ghosts haunting its premises. Among the spectral residents is a Royalist officer from 1644, complete with period attire, two mysteriously entombed black cats, and an old lady whose presence is only revealed to children. The cellar, a silent witness to the horrors of war, reportedly echoes with the agonizing screams of soldiers long past.