The Swan Inn

The polar opposite of Yates and Revolutions. Friendly locals, just far enough out of the city centre that you don’t get tourists, no scallies and most of the Bishopthorpe Road maroon trousered twerps are busy looking after their Guardian reading progeny to come in and smash their prams against your ankles. Race days can be a bit hectic but then few pubs in York aren’t affected by this.
BUT they have friendly doggys, nice seats, pies on the bar and a decent beer garden. What else do you want?

This is a tough one, almost 3.5 territory, but enough qualities redeem it to 4… shame I can’t go for 5, the gents bathroom alone knocks that one down a star.
Still, it’s an odd one here… go on the right summer day when they have something on and it can be one of the nicest pubs in York to catch some outside time… they’ll set-​up a beer tent, get the grill going, and have some live music all in their rather long (if not wide) back garden… I’ve never regretted afternoons here of this variety and would happily return if not suggest this place myself on a nice summer day.
The place is still good on your average night, but the inside (while charming), could use with a bit of a deep clean and update to the restrooms… or the gents at least. The whole place at times seems at contrast to the beer garden days where the pub is easily elevated above your standard experience, which is a bit of a shame… I would love the two experiences to come in line somewhat, but maybe that’s just me.
Above said, it’s still a friendly (and dog friendly) pub so it is what it is. For a few quick pints inside I may choose a few other places in the area (Phoenix Inn & Masons Arms) come to mind, but this is certainly one worth checking out if you’re on this side of town and looking for a good old fashioned pub to try.