One of the UK's most beautiful cities, York has a lot to offer when it comes to places to drink. From cosy, historic pubs to sleek, modern bars, it really has got it all. But did you know that there are a number of gorgeous rooftops to choose from as well?
Wondering where they are? We've rounded up the very best rooftop bars York has to offer, from elevated cocktail spots to pan-Asian restaurants at the top of hotels.
Best York Rooftop Bars
1. Sora
- Address: Malmaison, 2 Rougier Street, YO90 1UU
- Best for: live entertainment
One of the city's most iconic rooftop bars, Sora Sky Bar York can be found on the seventh floor of the Malmaison hotel. This is an elegant pan-Asian tapas and cocktail bar, perfect for date night or relaxed drinks while you look out over the skyline. There are lots of cosy seating areas, with some heated and covered spaces for the colder nights.
Sip signature tipples like the yuzu mojito or a peach and lychee spritz from the Sora York menu, paired with sushi rolls, robata grilled dishes or even an Asian twist on afternoon tea. There's plenty of entertainment on the cards too, including resident DJs and saxophone players every Saturday. Or for something really special, check out their sundown sessions on Sunday afternoons, where you can watch the sunset to a backdrop of live music.
Great views and unique pan-Asian dishes are guaranteed at Malmaison York's Sky Bar.
2. The Habit
- Address: 40 Goodramgate, YO1 7LF
- Best for: all-day dining
One of the top rooftop bars in York city centre, The Habit is right round the corner from the historic York Minster (which you can see from their outdoor terrace). The building it's in dates back to the 16th century, taking its name from the fact that it once housed local monks - and you can still see some artwork from this time inside the cafe-bar.
This venue suits all occasions, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner alongside an impressive selection of over 40 whiskies and 30 gins. Whether you're after a late-night cocktail or a salted caramel hot chocolate and a stack of buttermilk pancakes or a barbecue bacon burger, they've got it all. And if you head there Wednesday to Saturday, you'll find York-based musicians playing in the evenings.
This all-day destination promises great views and a vast drinks menu.
3. Fancy Hank's
- Address: 39 Goodramgate, YO1 7LS
- Best for: US-inspired food and cocktails
Nestled in the historic streets of Minster Quarter, Fancy Hank's is a cool bar and restaurant that was inspired by two brothers' travels through the 11 states of America’s Deep South. Expect soulful, comforting flavours in both their food and cocktails, which you can enjoy out on their pretty roof terrace.
Surround yourself with wooden picnic tables, hanging lights and lots of pretty plants. Here, you can enjoy boozy lemonade or an apple pie-flavoured cocktail, which are two for £12 between 3 and 6pm every day. As for the food, expect everything from loaded pickles to bourbon-glazed pork belly and Cajun chicken burgers.
Fancy Hank's is bringing Southern America to the North of England.
4. Bobo's
- Address: 5 Little Stonegate, YO1 8AX
- Best for: shisha
If you're after shisha rooftop bars in York, then Bobo's is the place for you. It boasts the city's only heated shisha terrace, which is elevated above the busy streets below. They're open seven days a week, promising great tunes and a buzzing atmosphere at all times - as well as only the highest quality shisha.
There's plenty more on offer, including two for £12 cocktails Sunday to Friday, alongside £6 house doubles all night. They even offer cocktail masterclasses, perfect for birthdays, hen parties or just because.
Shisha and cocktails are the name of the game at Bobo's.
For more great finds, check out our guide to cocktail bars in York.
