The Black Swan

The Black Swan is a historic half-timbered pub and inn on Peasholme Green, close to the River Foss in York. Traditional character runs through the building, particularly in the wood-panelled restaurant, where a coffered ceiling and open fireplace create a period pub setting. The venue also includes rooms, linking a meal or evening drink with overnight accommodation.

Food is home-cooked and covers lunch and dinner, with both a main menu and a buffet menu available. The restaurant suits straightforward pub dining in a setting with plenty of architectural character, while the bar serves a range of premium ales. The combination makes the Black Swan suitable for a relaxed meal, a drink after exploring the surrounding historic area, or a longer visit incorporating one of the pub’s rooms.

Live music is a central part of the venue’s identity. The programme includes folk, acoustic and jazz bands, with local and international performers appearing at the pub. The Black Swan Folk Club meets on Thursday evenings and also hosts monthly open-mic nights, giving the venue a regular connection to York’s folk and acoustic music scene. Larger folk concerts are held at the National Centre for Early Music, while the annual City of York Folk Weekend brings additional performances to the inn and its grounds.

Outside, two beer gardens provide space for drinks in finer weather. Inside, the traditional dining room and bar offer a setting that works for food, conversation and live performance. The venue also has a function room and can host events including weddings, birthdays and christenings, with facilities suited to larger gatherings.

The Black Swan therefore fits several types of visit without losing its pub character. It works for diners looking for home-style food, ale drinkers, live music audiences and guests seeking rooms in a historic inn. Families and large groups are welcomed, while the function facilities provide an option for private occasions.