With around 2.2 million pints of Guinness consumed in the UK every day, it’s clear that the black stuff holds a special place in the nation’s heart, especially as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. And it’s not just about drinking it - Google searches for ‘splitting the G’ have surged by 400% worldwide in the last two years, proving that Guinness lovers are more passionate than ever. But where can you find the best pour in York? Nomada Digital (https://www.nomadadigital.co.uk) has analysed Tripadvisor and Google reviews from pubs across the city to uncover the top spots serving up the most highly rated Guinness, just in time for the big day on March 17th.

The results are in and here are the top 10:

1. O'Neill’s
- 14.4% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from O'Neill’s
- 10 Low Ousegate, York YO1 9QU
O'Neill's is renowned for its authentic Irish pub experience, featuring live music, live sports broadcasts, and a vibrant atmosphere. For St. Patrick's Day 2025, they're hosting a week-long celebration with special drinks offers, parties, and entertainment, making it the go-to spot for those seeking a true Irish festivity.

2. Rose and Crown
- 8.8% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from the Rose & Crown
- 13 Lawrence Street, York YO10 3BP
The Rose and Crown prides itself on delivering a great customer experience within its traditional and classic venue. As well as Guinness, they offer a vast variety of drinks, including the finest selection of Whisky in York, craft ales, world beers, fine wines, and local hand-pulled cask ales.

3. The Walnut Tree
- 7% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from The Walnut Tree
- 73 Heworth Village, York YO31 1AN
The Walnut Tree is a dog-friendly local pub nestled in the heart of Heworth, York. They offer a wide selection of food and drinks, including cask ales from local and regional breweries. For St. Patrick's Day celebrations between 13th and 17th March, they're offering a free Baby Guinness to groups of 2 to 15 guests who book in advance and quote #BABYG.

4. The Golden Fleece
- 6% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from The Golden Fleece
- 16 Pavement, York YO1 9UP
The Golden Fleece, established in 1503, is one of York's oldest and most haunted pubs, offering a historic ambiance alongside traditional ales and hearty meals. For St. Patrick's Day celebrations between 13th and 17th March, they're offering a free Baby Guinness to groups who book in advance and quote #BABYG.

5. Hole in the Wall
- 4.7% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from Hole in the Wall
- High Petergate, York YO1 7EH
The Hole in the Wall is an 18th-century pub that is located near York Minster. It offers a welcoming atmosphere with hearty pub food and a selection of ales. While specific St. Patrick's Day events aren't detailed on their website, patrons can expect a cozy setting to enjoy a pint of Guinness.

6. The Punch Bowl
- 4.2% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from The Punch Bowl
- 5 - 9 Blossom Street, York YO24 1AU
The Punch Bowl has been a cornerstone of York's pub scene since 1770, situated at the junction of Blossom Street and Nunnery Lane. The pub's name and sign date back to the late 17th century, symbolising its association with the Whig party, who favoured punch as their drink of choice. Today, as a J D Wetherspoon establishment, The Punch Bowl offers a welcoming atmosphere, serving a variety of cask ales, including Guinness, and classic pub grub.

7. Ye Olde Starre Inn
- 3.7% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from Ye Olde Starre Inn
- 40 Stonegate, York YO1 8AS
Ye Olde Starre Inne, established in 1644, is York's oldest licensed pub, rich in history and traditional charm. During the English Civil War, it served as a hospital and mortuary for soldiers. For St. Patrick's Day, they invite guests to enjoy great drinks, top-notch grub, and a whole lot of craic, celebrating St. Paddy’s the proper way.

8. The Three Tuns
- 3.3% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from The Three Tuns
- 12 Coppergate, York YO1 9NR
The Three Tuns is a historic pub established in 1782. Known for its generous portions of hearty pub food and a warm Yorkshire welcome, it offers hand-pulled ales as well as a lovely pint of the black stuff. For St. Patrick's Day, they have planned live music events to celebrate the occasion.

9. Old White Swan
- 2.8% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from the OId White Swan
- 80 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LF
The Old White Swan is one of York's oldest pubs, with buildings dating back to the 16th century. This collection of historic structures boasts a rich and colourful history, including tales of hauntings. Notably, in 1781, the pub exhibited Mr. O'Brian, the world's tallest man at 8 feet tall, with the landlord charging onlookers a shilling. Although there are no listed St. Patrick’s Day events on their website, The Old White Swan offers an inviting setting - perfect for enjoying a smooth pint of Guinness in traditional surroundings.

10. The Masons Arms
- 2.3% of all positive Guinness reviews in York are from The Masons Arms
- 6 Fishergate, York YO10 4AB
The Masons Arms is a traditional British pub, built in 1935 in a Tudor style as a flagship project by the local Cameron Brewery. Notably, the fireplace and panelling in the main bar were salvaged from the York Castle Prison gatehouse during its demolition in 1935, adding a unique historical touch to the pub's interior. The pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, serving Guinness alongside a selection of cask ales and classic pub fare.


Whether you’re a dedicated Guinness drinker or just looking for the perfect spot to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, these top 10 pubs have been singled out as the best places to raise a glass of Guinness in York. Cheers!