Gem of a boozer, but you didn’t hear that from us
The great thing about the Grade II – listed Blue Bell, said a national newspaper reviewer, is that it is “not an historic inn.” By which he meant it doesn’t wear its history on its Edwardian velvet sleeve. Yes, it goes back a bit. No, it doesn’t go on about it.
Moreover, the Blue Bell is for others to find. Even in the last couple of years, when its home street, Fossgate, has made strenuous attempts to draw attention to its interesting mix of indie shops and eating places, the Blue Bell has not sought to self-publicise. There’s no sign of a website or a Twitter account #undertheradar.
Info
Address 53 Fossgate, York YO1 9TF, +44 (0)1904 654904 | Public Transport 3-minute walk from Shambles car park. Closest bus stops: on Stonebow | Hours Mon–Sat 11:30am–11pm, Sun 11am–11pm| Tip You’re spoiled for food and drink options on Fossgate. Try Oshibi, a highly rated Korean restaurant, just off Fossgate on Franklins Yard.
Those who do find it tend to keep mum. This is a very small pub. No good will come from its winning popularity contests … so, can we keep this our little secret?
There is much to love about the Blue Bell: its mythical status as the birthplace of York City FC; the red glazed-brick exterior and that large etched window; its cosy wood-panelled interior, untouched since 1903; the back room, served through a hatch from the central bar. It is the best refuge from the winter when warmed by a fire and candlelight.
The fact that somehow they manage to pack seven handpumps onto such a small bar is another Blue Bell marvel, particularly as the beer is so good. And this perhaps is the main reason for its status as a York “national treasure”: consistency. A time traveller from 50 years ago who fell through a wormhole onto Fossgate might be confused by the speed bumps and intimidated by the Terrace sports bar, but he would feel instantly at home in the immutable Blue Bell.
That is why a nervous shudder passed through many a regular customer when they saw that a new licensee had taken over the pub late in 2015, only the sixth in 112 years. Since he moved in, pork pies have been available daily. That’s enough change for now, thanks.
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