The Stonebow, York

Facebook page of Stonebow - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Stonebow - www.facebook.com

I was in the Terrace early doors on Thursday last week when it was actually busier than many of its peers. The crowd was a mix of foreign tourists / students and locals who were in for the value beer. Standard and premium keg were available and the three hand pumps were drawing TT Landlord, Wainwright and Lilley’s Mango Cider. Much beer was consumed the day before, so I went for a Stella as a bit of a livener. The left-hand side of the pub has open plan seating and the bar counter on the rear wall faces some curvy banquettes that run under the front windows. In the right are some high tables and there’s a small raised seating / stage area to the right rear. Televisions are located throughout, live muted cricket was airing via Sky Sports during my visit. I thought it was OK in here for a quiet pint, but I was a little put off by the sign that read “please do not stand on the furniture, throw drinks, use foul or abusive language". I think it may get a bit ugly in here at the weekend!

Can't disagree with Graham's review below. I was also surprised on a Tuesday lunchtime that this place wasn't as bad as expected. Loads of TV screens for sport and loud(ish) music, but not totally obtrusive. The food is mainly plastic but there were a few interesting options on the menu, although I didn't eat here. A reasonable enough clientele and my Wainwright was in good nick as well. It's not going to become a regular haunt, but I'm glad I called in whilst Ms CAMRA did some shopping. It was way better than having to do that. :-))

I have seen this place wedged and with bouncers on a Saturday evening so feared the worst, but on a quiet weekday lunchtime it was actually not unpleasant. The naff 70s architecture is not great but it is a good example of its type. A long bar runs across the middle with seating areas around and it feels reasonably looked-after. Neither the sports TVs nor the (above-average) music were too intrusive, while ale-wise it offered TT Landlord, Wainwright or Doom Bar, not over-exciting but seemingly in good condition. There are obviously much better pubs nearby but this is quite adequate for purpose.

They say you’re never more than 10 feet from a rat, well this is the metaphorical rat for the Fossgate/ Shambles area, so many good and outstanding pubs in the area so I guess someone had to come up with this dump to remind you not everything in life is great. Typical shite city centre pub, not even a bar, with a dreary offering in both cask and keg departments. Charged £2 for a half of rubbish Leeds Pale beside a sign saying “All cask bitter £2.95 a pint”, taking the proverbial and the service was as rubbish as the beer. Nothing here you wouldn’t recognise or to excite you. Go down the road to the best pub in York.