Brewdog York is one of my boyfriend’s favourite brands of beer. We have visited the bar in Leeds but they opened one on Micklegate in York back in December 2016. We have visited loads of times now, and it’s become one of our regular spots in the city!
What Happened to BrewDog York?
BrewDog York opened on Micklegate and was a firm favourite for craft beer fans in the city — we visited regularly and it was one of our go-to bars. Sadly, it closed in July 2025 when BrewDog announced the immediate shutdown of ten UK venues as part of a strategic review. York was on that list, along with sites in Aberdeen, Leeds, Sheffield, Brighton, and others.
Things got worse from there. In February 2026, restructuring specialists AlixPartners were brought in after years of losses — BrewDog reported a pre-tax loss of £37 million in 2024, the fifth consecutive year without profit.
The company went into administration in March 2026, and while US firm Tilray Brands stepped in with a £33 million rescue deal, it only covered the brand, the brewery in Ellon, and 11 bars across the UK. York was not among them.
In total, 38 bars closed and 484 staff lost their jobs. It’s a shame. BrewDog was far from perfect as a company over the years, but the York bar itself was a good spot — the arcade games, the booths, the range of beers. It had its own character, and it will be missed.
Where to Drink Craft Beer in York Now
If you loved BrewDog York, here are a couple of alternatives worth trying. Brew York on Walmgate is the obvious first stop. It’s an independent York brewery founded in 2016, tucked away at the Enterprise Complex and all the better for it. They brew everything on site and the taproom has a rotating selection of cask and keg beers. It’s the real deal. The York Tap at the train station is also excellent — a beautiful Grade II listed building with a huge range of cask and craft beers. Great for a pint before or after a journey.
About BrewDog
BrewDog is a craft brewery and pub chain that was founded in 2007 by James Watt and Martin Dickie in Fraserburgh, Scotland. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative and unconventional approach to brewing and marketing craft beer. They brewed the UK’s strongest-ever beer which was banned in the UK. BrewDog’s mission has been to revolutionise the beer industry and challenge traditional norms by producing bold, flavourful, and boundary-pushing beers.
One of BrewDog’s notable contributions to the beer market was the introduction of its flagship beer, Punk IPA. This India Pale Ale (IPA) played a significant role in popularising the craft beer movement in the United Kingdom. BrewDog has since expanded its beer lineup to include a wide range of styles, including stouts, porters, lagers, and experimental brews.
The BrewDog Bar Network
In addition to its brewing operations, BrewDog has also developed an extensive pub network. They operate their own chain of bars, called BrewDog Bars, where they serve their own beers alongside a curated selection of guest beers. The company has pubs not only in the UK but also in several other countries, including the United States, Australia, and many European countries.
BrewDog has gained attention not only for its beers but also for its unique and often controversial marketing tactics. They have been known to utilise attention-grabbing stunts, such as brewing the world’s strongest beer at the time, releasing beers with provocative names, and launching crowdfunding campaigns to fund expansion projects.
They even opened a hotel called DogHouse in Ohio, and a beer museum in Columbus.
BrewDog’s Sustainability
BrewDog has made sustainability a core part of its business. They aim to reduce their environmental impact by implementing eco-friendly practices, such as using wind power for their breweries, investing in carbon offsetting projects, and reducing water usage. In 2020 it became the world’s first carbon negative brewery. During the pandemic, they paused making spirits and instead made 500,000 bottles of hand sanitisers and donated them to the NHS.
Where is BrewDog York?
York BrewDog is located at 130-134 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX, just a hundred yards from the historic southern entrance to the city at Micklegate Bar. The 14th-century gatehouse is only a short stroll away, making it easy to find!
Contact Details:
- Phone: 01904 620773
- Website: brewdog.com/bars/uk/york
- Social Media: @brewdogyork
The location on Micklegate is perfect – it’s an area teeming with pubs, bars and restaurants, and it’s conveniently close to the train station too.
Opening Times
Monday – Thursday: 12:00pm – 12:00am (midnight)
Friday – Saturday: 12:00pm – 1:00am
Sunday: 12:00pm – 12:00am (midnight)
They’re open every day from noon, which is brilliant if you fancy a lunchtime pint or want to settle in for an evening session!
About BrewDog York Bar
BrewDog York opened in December 2016 after, as they put it, “facing several battles to secure the site” (befitting a city that shaped British history!). Since then, it’s become a favourite for craft beer lovers in York.
The bar has a rustic, industrial feel to it with shabby chic decor and an urban vibe – which is quite a juxtaposition from pretty much all other York pubs! For some, it’s a welcome change from the traditional historic pubs, though it’s not to everyone’s taste.
There’s plenty of seating, including:
- Booths at the front – perfect for smaller groups
- Middle section with tables – good for dining
- Back area with arcade games and 3 long tables – brilliant for larger groups and gaming!
The retro arcade games are a real highlight. They had Pac-Man when we were there! It adds such a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
BrewDog York Menu – Food & Drinks
The Beer Selection
Brew Dog York serves a huge selection of BrewDog craft beers as well as some guest beers. They range in taste and strength with one being 16.5%! Of course, you can’t get pints of the higher-strength ones – they’re sold in smaller glasses for obvious reasons!
On tap, you’ll find around 14 lines of craft beer including:
- Punk IPA – BrewDog’s flagship beer, a rich hoppy IPA with hints of citrus
- Elvis Juice – Grapefruit-infused IPA
- Hazy Jane – New England IPA
- Lost Lager – Their take on a classic lager
- Various rotating guest beers – always something new to try!
They also have a packed fridge for takeaways alongside growler pour service on anything from the taps if you want to take beer home.
Beyond beer, York BrewDog stocks:
- Wonderland Cocktails (2-4-1 during happy hour!)
- Wines
- Spirits
- Aeropress coffee from Dear Green in Glasgow
- Soft drinks and alcohol-free options
Food at BrewDog York
The BrewDog York menu focuses on pizzas and lighter options:
Pizzas:
- Legendary freshly-made BrewDog pizzas
- Various toppings including meat and vegetarian options
- Great quality but “light on toppings” according to some reviews
New Lunch Menu:
- Sub Melts – Cuban Melt, Cauli Po Boy, and more
- Lunch Deal: Pizza or sub with a pint for £9.95 (Monday-Friday until 4pm)
Other Options:
- Cheese and beer tasting platters (available with Beer School experiences)
- Various bar snacks
It’s more of something you would buy if you were already there and hungry rather than going there specifically for a meal. The pizzas are decent, but most people come for the beer!
You can view their BrewDog York food and drink menu here.
Our Visit to BrewDog York
The atmosphere is always nice and calm at Brew Dog York. No loud music blaring – just a relaxed buzz of conversation and the occasional sound effects from the arcade games in the back! They give good service, and the staff are knowledgeable about the beers, happy to offer tasters before you commit.
We’ve been loads of times now, and it’s become one of our regular spots. The industrial-style décor with the cool-looking serving bar and plenty of seating spread throughout makes it a really good craft beer bar to unwind in.
Really glad to have BrewDog York on our list of bars we go to regularly!
Our other favourites are Eagle and Child and Pivni.
BrewDog York Reviews – What Others Say
Looking at BrewDog York reviews across multiple platforms, the bar has solid ratings! It has 4.4 out of 5 on Google (over 1,000 reviews), 4.9 on Facebook (200+ reviews), and 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor (168 reviews). Overall aggregate rating is 4.42/5 across all platforms!
What People Love About York BrewDog:
The Beer Selection: Most Brew Dog York reviews praise the extensive craft beer selection. People love the rotating guest beers and the opportunity to try rare and exclusive brews. The Punk IPA consistently gets positive mentions.
The Arcade Games: The retro arcade games in the back area are mentioned in loads of reviews. People love the Pac-Man machine and other games – it adds a fun, unique element.
The Atmosphere: Many reviewers describe the atmosphere as “great,” “relaxed,” and “welcoming.” The industrial décor gets praise from those who appreciate the modern aesthetic.
The Staff: Staff members like Alex, Fraser, Ben, Elly, Derren, Sam, Tom, and Nick get mentioned by name in reviews. People consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful service.
Beer School Experiences: The Beer School sessions get rave reviews! People love learning about different beers, trying flights with cheese boards, and the knowledgeable hosts who make it entertaining.
Dog and Family Friendly: BrewDog York welcomes both dogs and children, making it inclusive for families and pet owners.
Student Discounts: Students save 25% with valid ID, which gets positive mentions.
Birthday Perks: If you’re celebrating your birthday, you drink for free – people love this!
Common Themes in BrewDog York Reviews:
- “One of the best craft beer bars in York”
- “Great atmosphere and friendly staff”
- “Love the arcade games”
- “Beer School experience is fantastic”
- “Industrial style décor is superb”
- “Dog-friendly – loved bringing our pup!”
- “Tasters before you commit – brilliant!”
Some criticisms include:
- Service can be inconsistent during very busy periods
- Some found the interior “too dark”
- A few reviews mention pizza taking longer than expected
- Occasional complaints about beer quality not living up to BrewDog’s reputation
- Cocktails in tins are “small, sweet, and overpriced” according to some
Overall though, the vast majority of York BrewDog reviews are positive, especially for the beer selection and atmosphere!
Special Events & Experiences at BrewDog York
Beer School
BrewDog York offers Beer School experiences where you’ll be introduced to the world of craft beer. The sessions include:
- Learning about different beer styles and the brewing process
- Tasting flights of various beers
- Cheese boards to pair with your beers
- Knowledgeable hosts who make it entertaining and educational
These get fantastic reviews and are perfect for beer enthusiasts or groups looking for something different to do in York!
Dog Parties (Dog Pawties!)
Yes, they put on parties for dogs! BrewDog York is genuinely dog-friendly and will even host special events for your four-legged friends.
Christmas Parties & Group Bookings
From festive catch-ups to Christmas office parties, BrewDog York takes bookings for celebrations and events. They have good facilities for larger groups with the long tables in the back area.
Happy Hour
2-4-1 on Wonderland Cocktails – Time to clock off work and unwind!
Loyalty Program – BrewDog Treats
Join BrewDog Treats for:
- Free pint just for signing up
- Exclusive discounts and rewards
- Benefits at all BrewDog bars
Final Thoughts
BrewDog York was a genuinely good bar and I’m glad we visited as many times as we did. It felt like a safe bet on a night out — always decent beer, good atmosphere, never too loud. The administration news was sad but not entirely surprising given how long the company had been struggling. If you’re looking for that same craft beer energy in York now, Brew York on Walmgate is your best bet. It’s been there longer, it’s run with more care, and honestly it suits York better anyway.
BrewDog York FAQ
Where is BrewDog in York?
BrewDog York is at 130-134 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX, just a hundred yards from Micklegate Bar (the historic 14th-century gatehouse). It’s easy to find on Micklegate, an area full of pubs and bars.
What time does BrewDog York open?
York BrewDog opens at 12pm (noon) every day. They close at midnight Monday-Thursday and Sunday, and 1am on Friday-Saturday.
Does BrewDog York serve food?
Yes! They serve freshly-made pizzas, new sub melts, and have a lunch deal (pizza or sub with a pint for £9.95, Monday-Friday until 4pm). The menu focuses on casual food that goes well with beer.
Is BrewDog York dog-friendly?
Absolutely! BrewDog York is very dog-friendly and even hosts Dog Pawties. Bring your pup along!
Is BrewDog York child-friendly?
Yes, children are welcome at BrewDog York, making it family-friendly. They have plenty of space and the arcade games are fun for kids too!
Does BrewDog York have arcade games?
Yes! There’s a section at the back with retro arcade games including Pac-Man. It’s one of the things that makes Brew Dog York unique and fun!
Can you book tables at BrewDog York?
Yes, BrewDog York takes reservations. This is especially useful if you’re visiting with a large group or want to guarantee seating at busy times.
Does BrewDog York do student discount?
Yes! Students save 25% with valid student ID on every visit.
What’s the birthday offer at BrewDog York?
If you book in for your birthday celebration, you drink for free! Just let them know when booking.
Does BrewDog York have vegan options?
Yes, they have vegan pizza options and other suitable choices. The beer selection also includes vegan-friendly options.
Can you buy beer to take home from BrewDog York?
Yes! They have bottles to go from the fridges and offer a full growler pour service on anything from the taps.
Is BrewDog York wheelchair accessible?
Yes, BrewDog York is wheelchair accessible with appropriate facilities.
What beers are on tap at BrewDog York?
They have around 14 taps featuring BrewDog classics like Punk IPA, Elvis Juice, Hazy Jane, and Lost Lager, plus rotating guest beers. The selection changes regularly, so there’s always something new!
How strong are the beers at BrewDog York?
Beers range from standard strength up to 16.5%! Higher-strength beers are served in smaller glasses rather than pints.
Does BrewDog York do takeaway?
Yes, you can get takeaway pizzas and purchase bottles or growlers of beer to take home.
Tips for Visiting BrewDog York
Ask for Tasters
Staff are happy to give you tasters before you commit to a full drink. This is brilliant when there are so many options!
Check Out the Back Area
Don’t miss the arcade games section at the back – it’s one of the most fun parts of York BrewDog!
Try the Lunch Deal
Monday-Friday until 4pm, get a pizza or sub with a pint for £9.95 – excellent value!
Book for Groups
If you’re visiting with 6+ people, definitely book ahead to guarantee seating.
Join BrewDog Treats
Sign up for the loyalty program to get a free pint and ongoing rewards.
Visit During Happy Hour
Get 2-4-1 on Wonderland Cocktails – perfect for after work!
Try a Beer School
If you’re a beer enthusiast, book a Beer School experience. The reviews are consistently excellent!
My Final Thoughts on BrewDog York
BrewDog York is a brilliant addition to the York bar scene. Yes, the industrial shabby chic vibe is completely different from all the historic traditional pubs, but that’s exactly what makes it special! Sometimes you want something modern and different, and Brew Dog York delivers that perfectly.
The beer selection is outstanding – with around 14 taps plus bottles, there’s always something new and exciting to try. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to help you find something you’ll love, and they’ll give you tasters which is always appreciated!
The arcade games add such a fun element, and the whole atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. No loud music, no pretension – just good beer, decent food, and a comfortable space to hang out with friends.
The lunch deal (£9.95 for pizza or sub with a pint) is excellent value, and the fact they welcome dogs and families makes it accessible for everyone.
Is the food amazing? No, it’s casual bar food. But the pizzas are decent, and honestly, you come here for the craft beer, not a gourmet meal! The focus is on the drinks, and that’s where BrewDog York really shines.
We’ve been back loads of times since our first visit, and it’s firmly on our list of regular York spots. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, looking for somewhere different from traditional York pubs, or just fancy playing Pac-Man with a pint, York BrewDog is well worth a visit!
BrewDog York:
130-134 Micklegate
York YO1 6JX
Phone: 01904 620773
Website: brewdog.com/bars/uk/york
Social: @brewdogyork
Want more places to drink in York? Check out my ultimate guide to York!
Looking for more York pub and bar reviews? Check out Pivni York for traditional craft beer, Eagle & Child York for historic charm, House of Trembling Madness Lendal for a beer mansion, or Evil Eye Lounge York for quirky cocktails!
This looks like a lovely little place!
Candice | beautycandyloves.co.za
The gaming section with a pint my other half would love. Great that it’s now nice and near to you x
Can you believe that I have not yet had the opportunity to taste craft beer? Where I live there is a place where they sell it too, this place that you show us has a peculiar, quite rustic decoration, with all those pinball machines reminded me of a chapter of the Stranger Things series.