The Cross Keys (York)

The Cross Keys is a grand example of a Victorian corner pub situated on the busy thoroughfare of Goodramgate in full view of the East Wing of The Minster. As a Nicholson’s run establishment it retains all its history while being fresh and modern, although some aspects of the pub have seen better days, especially the toilets.

The Main room is a large airy space with plenty of seating but still leaves a good sized standing space at the large L shaped bar. There are TVs in the front room for those that like to partake in some sports, with more seating out of the way around the side and a quiet back room. Out at the back is a small walled courtyard which is partially covered, this is where you get some pretty impressive views of The Minster.

But here we come to the main deciding point for the Cross Keys, the 12 hand pumps that adorn the bar which once upon a time served a decent range of cask ales. Not today though, as out of a possible 12 cask lines we were left with only one beer! It would seem they had run out of beer at 5pm on a Saturday! What is a pub without beer? Well a pretty crap one really. What was severed wasn’t great either and the prices will put a real dent in your pocket.

I'm not sure what happened to the Cross Keys of late as the other Nicholson's run pubs in York are far superior. We certainly won't be rushing to return here and with such a varied choice of pubs in York I'd recommend finding somewhere else.