The Old White Swan
Old White Swan
80 Goodramgate
YORK
YO1 7LF
Tel: +44 (0)1904 540911
Reputedly one of the most haunted pubs in York, the Old White Swan can also lay claim to be one of the city's oldest pubs.
The Old White Swan is a collection of at least nine buildings, which date from the 16th Century and reflect an extraordinary history. A variety of businesses traded in these premises including a pigsty barber’s shop, coaching house and poultry market.
The range of buildings across the rear of the courtyard are from the medieval era and are timber framed structures. The four steps still present in the courtyard were originally used to board stagecoaches and they are known as the ‘mountings’.
On 5th August 1781, the Old White Swan had an unusual visitor. By permission of the Lord Mayor, the York Chronicle advertised that the world’s tallest man was exhibited at this large pub. O’Brian was only 20 years old yet he measured eight feet high - the landlord charged his customers a shilling to see his visitor, who only stayed for a short while as he was traveling around Britain.
The Old White Swan has many stories of ghostly occurrences. One story concerns a fire being re-lit during the night and with what seemed like a huddle of people warming themselves around it. The ghostly figures scared local visitors by moving chairs and tables around the room.
Ales and Malts
The Old White Swan offers an excellent selection of cask ales including; Bass, London Pride and Worthington. Customers can also chose from a selection of red and white wines from the wine menu.
Food
The Old White Swan serves a range of tasty meals and snacks, from hot and cold sandwiches to delicious main meals including the famous Old White Swan Steak Pie– perfect for a lunch stop in between shopping or sightseeing.