Black Swan Pub

The Black Swan stands in Peasholme Green, so called because the area used to be a water meadow used for growing peas.

The pub, like many in York, is as interesting below ground as it is above. It dates back to the 15th century, when it was a private house, with alterations and additions been made in the following two centuries. Prior to the present building, a medieval inn had stood on the site and remains may well still be beneath the pub.

It was built for William Bowes, a merchant and Sheriff of York in 1417, who also became Lord Mayor in 1428.

For many years it was believed that a passageway ran under the road, linking the pub to St Cuthbert’s Church, dating back to when the house was first built.

Photo 489, May 2011