When we heard there was a new House of Trembling Madness York location opening on Lendal, we heard rumours that the old Trembling Madness was closing so Betty’s could expand into it. It opened in June 2018 and I am very happy to report that the original Trembling Madness on Stonegate still exists! I would recommend the original Stonegate site to anyone visiting York. Click my Trembling Madness review and just take a look at how amazing that building is!
We’ve been back to the House of Trembling Madness Lendal loads of times since writing this. They’ve updated their menu to feature “killer sandwiches” and hearty stews, and it’s still one of the best craft beer bars in York!
Important note: Trembling Madness Lendal is now under different ownership (Tipi people) compared to the original Stonegate location, which is still owned and run by Ian who set up the business. Both are excellent, but they’re separately operated.
About House of Trembling Madness Lendal
The House of Trembling Madness Lendal is located in a magnificent Georgian building in York city centre. The building itself dates back centuries – for the past 170 years, 14 Lendal housed the old saddlery and harness maker, Robson & Cooper, and it’s only fitting that an existing York “institution” has taken up the reins of this historic building.
This beautiful restored “Craft Beer Mansion” has a rich history and has been associated with many locally significant characters, including astronomer Sir John Goodricke, Sir Richard Osbaldeston, aristocrat Michael Barstow, and Sir Thomas Widdrington, the Recorder of York during the reign of King Charles I.
The House of Trembling Madness Lendal is known as the “big Trembling Madness” compared to the original Stonegate location. It’s absolutely massive inside with multiple floors, hidden nooks, and so much character!
What Makes Trembling Madness Lendal Special?
The Trembling Madness Lendal York is famous for its extensive beer selection. They stock 19 draft beers, over 50 types of spirits, and delicious wines you won’t find anywhere else. The venue is described as “rich in history and absolutely haunted” – and honestly, with all the Georgian decor and hidden rooms, you can believe it!
They’re known for their ever-changing selection of craft beers from around the world. The team picks beers they love, ones they think you’ll love, and some that will surprise everyone. If you’re a craft beer lover, this is heaven!
Where is House of Trembling Madness Lendal?
The House of Trembling Madness Lendal is at 14 Lendal, York YO1 8AA, right in the heart of York city centre. It’s close to York railway station and surrounded by York’s historic attractions.
Contact Details:
- Phone: 01904 848 998
- Email: lendal@tremblingmadnessyork.co.uk
The location is brilliant – you’re right in the middle of everything, just a short walk from York Minster and the Museum Gardens.
Trembling Madness Lendal Menu
The House of Trembling Madness Lendal menu has evolved since they first opened! They now focus on what they call “killer sandwiches” – and trust me, they’re amazing. They also serve hearty stews that are perfect for filling you up, especially after exploring York all day.
What’s on the Menu?
The current Trembling Madness Lendal menu features:
- Killer Sandwiches – Their signature offering, made with fresh ingredients
- Hearty Stews – Perfect for cold York days
- Roast Dinners – Available on Sundays
- Kids Menu – So you can bring the whole family
- Picky Boards – Cheese, chutney, pork pies, scotch eggs and meats
They also do brilliant bacon sandwiches and great coffee if you’re popping in during the day!
The venue still offers traditional British dishes alongside their new menu items, with options for vegetarians and vegans too.
You can view the latest Trembling Madness menu on their website.
The Trembling Madness Lendal Experience
The Building Layout
There’s a craft beer shop on the lower level where you can purchase bottles of the various beers they offer, as well as other merchandise such as glassware and gift items.
The ground floor has a craft beer bar that offers 11 kegs, 3 casks and Yorkshire-inspired Pintxos, alongside their usual menu and specials boards. The atmosphere down here is more cafe-like during the day.
The first floor is where the magic really happens! It has another craft beer bar with a further 11 kegs, a huge range of spirits, and the full menu including specials. This floor has much more of the ‘old British pub’ feel with grandfather clocks and antique furniture everywhere. It’s absolutely stunning up there!
There’s also a private hire room for events if you’re looking to book something special.
Our Visits to Trembling Madness Lendal
I would say we made a mistake by sitting downstairs in Trembling Madness on our first visit as it had more of the feel of a cafe than an actual bar. Upstairs had a much more ‘old British pub’ feel with grandfather clocks and old furniture everywhere. I have to admit I do prefer the original Stonegate bar, but this is a brilliant spot that sells a variety of different beers to try if you’re a craft beer lover.
Our latest trip to House of Trembling Madness Lendal was in 2021 (updating this again in 2025 now!) and we went around midday for a coffee and something to eat. We enjoyed lovely bacon sandwiches on fresh crunchy bread and a coffee. Our weaning baby enjoyed the bread, too!
We have been several times to this Trembling Madness York location now. Although I prefer the original Trembling Madness on Stonegate for atmosphere, the Lendal location has much more seating which is brilliant when you’re with a group or have kids with you. They do great coffee and bacon sandwiches, too!
Top tip: Always head upstairs if you want the full Trembling Madness experience. The first floor is where all the character is, with its gorgeous Georgian features and quirky decor.
House of Trembling Madness Lendal Reviews – What Others Say
Looking at House of Trembling Madness reviews across different platforms, the venue has earned TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice 2024 award, which is pretty impressive!
The general consensus is that people absolutely love:
- The extensive craft beer selection (some say it’s the best in York, possibly the world!)
- The quirky, eclectic Georgian decor with exposed beams and antique furniture
- The historic, haunted atmosphere
- The hidden nooks and cozy corners throughout the building
- The risqué Georgian art on the walls
Some Trembling Madness Lendal reviews mention that service can be slow when it’s busy, and a few people have noted inconsistency with food quality under different management changes. However, most visitors rate it highly for the unique atmosphere and incredible beer selection.
The venue is described as having “more craft beers than York has ghost stories, more hidden nooks than a medieval monastery” – and that’s exactly what makes it special!
Trembling Madness Lendal vs Stonegate – Which is Better?
This is the question everyone asks! Both locations are brilliant, but they offer slightly different experiences:
Trembling Madness Lendal:
- Much bigger building with multiple floors
- More seating (great for groups)
- Georgian mansion atmosphere
- Better for families and larger parties
- Spacious with hidden rooms to explore
- More like a traditional pub/restaurant
Trembling Madness Stonegate (Original):
- More intimate and quirky
- Medieval building with incredibly low ceilings
- Taxidermy and eclectic decor
- Walk through a bottle shop to get to the bar upstairs
- More atmospheric and unique
- Can get very crowded
Honestly? Visit both! They’re both amazing in different ways. The Lendal location is better if you want more space or are visiting with kids, while Stonegate is better for that truly quirky, one-of-a-kind York experience.
House of Trembling Madness Lendal FAQ
Where is Trembling Madness Lendal?
House of Trembling Madness Lendal is at 14 Lendal, York YO1 8AA, in a beautiful Georgian building in the city centre. It’s close to the railway station and all major York attractions.
What are the opening hours for Trembling Madness Lendal?
Opening hours can vary, so I’d recommend checking their website or calling 01904 848 998 to confirm before visiting. They’re generally open throughout the day for food and drinks.
Does Trembling Madness Lendal serve food?
Yes! The Trembling Madness Lendal menu features their famous “killer sandwiches,” hearty stews, picky boards, Sunday roasts, and a kids menu. They also do brilliant bacon sandwiches and coffee during the day.
Is Trembling Madness Lendal good for families?
Absolutely! Unlike some traditional pubs, Trembling Madness Lendal is very family-friendly. They have a kids menu and loads more seating than the Stonegate location, making it easier to visit with children.
How many beers does Trembling Madness Lendal have?
They have 19 draft beers on tap, plus over 500 different bottled beers available in their shop downstairs. They also stock over 50 types of spirits. The selection is constantly changing with new and exciting craft beers.
Can you buy beer to take home from Trembling Madness Lendal?
Yes! There’s a bottle shop on the ground floor where you can buy craft beers to take away, plus glassware and gift items. It’s brilliant if you want to take some of your favourites home.
Do you need to book at Trembling Madness Lendal?
For regular visits, you can usually just walk in. However, if you’re planning something special or have a large group, they do have a private hire room available, so it’s worth calling ahead.
Is Trembling Madness Lendal haunted?
According to their own description, it’s “absolutely haunted”! Given the building’s Georgian history and the famous characters who’ve lived there (including astronomers and aristocrats), there are plenty of ghost stories. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the historic atmosphere is definitely spine-tingling!
What’s the best floor to sit on at Trembling Madness Lendal?
Head upstairs to the first floor for the full experience! That’s where you’ll find the gorgeous Georgian decor, grandfather clocks, and antique furniture. The ground floor is more cafe-like, which is fine for a quick coffee, but upstairs is where the magic happens.
Is there a dress code at Trembling Madness Lendal?
No formal dress code – it’s a relaxed pub atmosphere. Come as you are!
My Final Thoughts on House of Trembling Madness Lendal (2026)
The House of Trembling Madness Lendal is a brilliant addition to York’s drinking and dining scene. While I still have a soft spot for the original quirky Stonegate location, the Lendal “Madness Mansion” offers something different – more space, more comfort, and a gorgeous Georgian atmosphere.
It’s perfect for craft beer lovers who want to try something new and exciting. The constantly changing beer selection means there’s always something different to discover. And now with their updated menu featuring those killer sandwiches and hearty stews, it’s great for food too!
If you’re visiting York and love craft beer, quirky historic buildings, or just want somewhere a bit different from your typical pub, definitely visit the House of Trembling Madness Lendal. Just remember to head upstairs for the full experience!
Address: 14 Lendal, York YO1 8AA
Phone: 01904 848 998
Website: tremblingmadnessyork.co.uk
And don’t forget to visit the original Trembling Madness on Stonegate too – it’s a completely different experience and equally amazing!
Want more places to drink in York? Check out my ultimate guide to York.
Looking for more York pub and restaurant reviews? Check out Evil Eye Lounge York for quirky cocktails or Yak and Yeti York for amazing Nepalese food!
The food looks tasty!