You’ve walked the city walls, scared yourself silly at the York Dungeons, strolled along the banks of the River Ouse and marvelled at the majestic York Minster. All-in-all it’s been a fantastic day. So how are you going to top that off?
What To Do Before Happy Hour In York
Before you head out for a tipple (or four) why not do something a little different to get the party really started? One amazing option is to try your hand at a Viking pastime.
The city has long since had an association with the infamous Vikings. Many moons ago (back in 866AD) the Vikings invaded York. Led by Ivar the Boneless and King Halfden, the Vikings laid siege to the city and took a real liking to the place. They were so enamoured by it they decided to give a Scandi name - Jorvik. Although the Vikings are long gone, their presence remains. Authentic Viking artefacts have been unearthed and there’s a museum dedicated to their existence. So, as you’re in Viking territory why not embrace the ethos?
Before you embark on happy hour in York it’s time to...
Throw Like a Viking, Eat Like a King at The Hilt
57 Goodramgate, York, Y01 7FX
You don’t want to hit the bars too early, so we suggest you make the most of your night by doing something different before you head out. Whether you’re looking for a venue suitable for a work get together, a fun place for families and friends, or somewhere for a stag do or hen do, everyone is welcome to throw like a Viking and eat like a king at The Hilt.
Infamous for raiding and plundering and feared due to their strength and combat skills, the Vikings were a force to be reckoned with. We might not be able to travel back in time and meet the Scandanavian warriors, but we can take a short walk in their heavy boots - and have some fun while we’re at it!
The Hilt is a unique venue located just a few minutes from York Minster, right in the centre of the city, and it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a Viking experience with a difference. Limber up your shoulders and grab your chopper - it’s time!
The Hilt has skilled coaches on hand to teach you the art of successful axe throwing. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never done anything like it before (let’s face it, not many of us have), you’ll soon get into the (axe) swing of it!
The session begins with an essential safety briefing. Your instructor will then demonstrate the art of axe throwing. There will be plenty of time to practise your new found skills and before you know it you will be hitting the target and scoring points. This takes us nicely on to the final part of the session - competition time. Play against your fellow Viking wannabes and rack up the points to discover who will conquer all and take the Viking crown. You just might have so much fun that you become convinced axe throwing is your favorite thing to do in York.
All that action might have left you feeling hungry, if so, you can check out the menu and grab a bite to eat before carrying on with your evening. You should be just in time to enjoy happy hour. York has no shortage of places to experience it, so you’re in for a treat! Here are a handful of the best.
Best Happy Hour In York
Manahatta
3 Little Stonegate, Y01 8AX
Manahatta reputedly brings a taste of New York to York and this bustling bar certainly has plenty to offer. There’s an extensive drinks menu, food, sports on the big screen and music to listen and dance to. If you like your cocktails you’re in luck as there’s 2-4-1 cocktails all day, every day. If you prefer wine or a pint then you’re catered for too - there’s a happy hour at the Manahatta bar every single day! Sunday to Friday 4-7pm and Saturday 4-9pm.
Kennedy’s Bar & Restaurant
1 Little Stonegate, Y01 8AX
Kennedy’s describes itself as where food meets fun and who are we to argue? Right in the heart of the city, the bar provides opportunities to meet, eat, drink and play. It’s open all day and is a great place to catch up with friends. The good news is there’s a happy hour too - that’s on a Sunday-Thursday from 4pm (including two cocktails for £10).
Fancy Hank’s
39 Goodramgate, York, Y01 7LS
Located in the Minster Quarter, Fancy Hank’s is relatively new. There’s Southern soul food if you start feeling peckish and lots to choose from on the drinks menu. Happy hour here is certainly worth a look. It’s on every day from 4-7pm and customers are offered a number of deals, including 2 for £10 on cocktails and 4 bottles of Budweiser for £10.
Jalou
Micklegate Y01
Dedicated to cocktails and RnB, Jalou has a laid back vibe that’s hard to ignore. There’s a top-notch drinks menu, a resident DJ and a touch of glamour thrown in for good measure.
Jalou doesn’t do happy hour, preferring to call it instead, the Daily Switch On. From Monday - Friday 4-7pm, selected pints, bottles, wine and prosecco are reduced, and all cocktails are 2-4-1.
Oscars
27 Swinegate. York, Y01 8AZ
A friendly wine bar and bistro. Oscars has a happy hour from Sunday-Thursday 5-7pm and Friday 4.30-6.30pm. You can enjoy a pitcher or a discount on selected cocktails, along with other tempting offers.
Get Ready to Go and Have Some Fun - Celebrate Happy Hour in York
Enjoy your time in York, there’s so much to see and do you will certainly be busy. Be it summer or winter, rain or shine, there are plenty of attractions, such as The Hilt, to keep you busy before heading off to happy hour.