Top, Best & Fun Rooftop Bars in Welburn

"Found within one of the most intriguing buildings in York, Grays Court, The Bow Room is a relative newcomer to the restaurant scene in York. Despite its youth, it’s quickly developed a stellar reputation for its creative food and winning atmosphere. Among the restaurants’ accolades, The Bow Room boasts two AA Rosettes – earnt under the leadership of innovative Head Chef Joe Clapham – who boasts an impressive resume which includes the formerly Michelin Starred Box Tree in Ilkley."

"This historic court has had knights, kings and royalty walk the halls proving to be the perfect stay for those wishing to escape into a fairytale. Grays Court sits in the heart of the city with direct access to the medieval York walls. The rooms at Grays Court certainly bring the wow factor, with freestanding copper bathtubs, William IV poster beds, all with perfectly framed views of the Minster or the gardens below."

"In the city's premier location, between the Minster and the walls, with a history dating back to the 11th century plus a discreet entrance, this hotel ticks the boxes for atmosphere and privacy. The rooms are quietly elegant; the food is quietly confident."

"Even if you stand in the ground-floor off-licence (its stock of over 600 beers will leave you slack-jawed), it is quite possible not to notice that upstairs lies one of Britain's most idiosyncratic beer bars. Tucked into the exposed eaves of a 12th-century Norman house, decorated with animal skins and ancient taxidermy, the House of Trembling Madness is a tight, friendly squeeze where hop-heads linger over two cask ales (both from the wonderful Wild Beer Co on this visit), specialist draft Belgian beers and an amazing, ever-changing selection of bottled brews (on top of which, you can drink anything that is for sale downstairs, paying £1.25 corkage). If the staff can't surprise you with something – say, a Japanese Hitachino Nest Classic Ale – you've officially exhausted the possibilities of beer."

"Decked-out like a medieval drinking hall (all exposed beams, stuffed and mounted animal heads and pelts flung over old church pews), the House of Trembling Madness is primarily a specialist beer bar. It has several alluring craft beers on draught – various Brooklyn, Bad Seed, Black Jack and Great Heck beers on this visit – and it sits above one of Britain’s best-stocked off-licences (all bottles available to drink-in, corkage £1.25). So that drinkers can line their stomachs in style, HoTM also serves a repertoire of gutsy, filling hot dishes and picky platters."

"When a place describes itself as a 'medieval drinking hall', it clearly deserves investigation. The ground floor and basement host an impressive shop stacked with craft beers, gins, vodkas and even absinthes; but..."

"From grain to glass, see how traditional ale is created at York Brewery. Located just inside the city walls on Toft Green, York Brewery has been handcrafting real ales since 1996. The brewery site was built in the late 16th century, and has seen many uses over its history, but now it is home to a 20-barrel brew plant, with six traditional open top fermenters and five conditioning tanks."

"Located on Walmgate, the beer garden at Brew York is a hidden gem that overlooks the River Foss and Rowntree’s Wharf. With unique barrel benches and YUZU street food also on offer, make this your next stop for a fresh brew."

"Spark is a relatively new addition to the city of York but it’s certainly one that’s been welcomed with open arms (at least by me). Offering a vast selection of different cuisines, as well as gorgeous seating areas and unique shipping containers disguised as shops and food stalls, Spark is a great place to grab some pictures."

"Community project and social destination supporting independent businesses. Inside you’ll find street food vendors, bars, retailers, beauty, holistic therapy, a co-working hub, arts studio and events space. We are family friendly and dogs are welcome."

"Sited at the top of Micklegate a few yards from the city walls this bar from independent Scottish brewing giants Brewdog opened after a protracted court battle with a local trader – much to the relief of their loyal following of fans in the York area. I say fans because Brewdog as a company have so far attracted investment in their crowdfunding equity scheme from over 100,000 loyal drinkers. The multi-roomed bar is huge."

"Merchant Adventurers’ Hall on Fossgate is one of the finest medieval guild halls in existence. A fascinating museum also available for weddings and events (great vintage fairs take place here), the venue’s centrepiece is the Great Hall where medieval merchants once gathered. A collection on display inside includes a range of fine silver, paintings and furniture."

"Pairings is an independent wine bar in York run by sisters, located on historic Castlegate. Serving fine wines by the glass, local ales, signature cocktails and great coffee alongside cheese, charcuterie, deli foods and desserts, this cosy bar caters for everyone. If you’re not a wine connoisseur, don’t worry, the friendly staff are very knowledgeable and will pair your wine to the dish you choose."

"What’s on the menu – Choose from an amazing array of wine from across the world, Yorkshire and Spanish deli platters, olives, pork pies, Spanish pork scratchings and a whole range of cheese."