Three cafes situated in historic buildings above the ancient city walls give a heightened perspective across York from their view from the bridge.

 

Perky Peacock


Perky Peacock is based in a building that is over 600 years old and was used to help defend the city as well as raise tolls for the use of the river Ouse – this being prior to permanent bridges across the river.

The cafe is 9 years old, although has changed ownership in the last month. Our ethos is to have a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, appealing to both regulars and tourists.

Positioned just off Lendal Bridge at the railway station end gives a fascinating view of the tourists visiting the city. As we are by the river, it’s not always easy to find, but the perspective it provides of York is definitely worth it when you do.

York is a fascinating tourist attraction that appears to be visited by more customers year by year, and we hope to help this by offering local produce and home made fare as well as a renowned coffee selection.

Being a grade 1 listed historical building is special, as very little can be done to alter the structure, but this ensures it retains its character and charm. And having a ‘dungeon’ underneath the coffee shop is great for storage – and unruly customers!!

Gatehouse Coffee

 

Gatehouse Coffee, built into the stony embrace that is the wall of this city, is indeed unique. Watching the world pass under and feeling excitement every time customers patter up the weathered limestone stairs to our imposing medieval door, we are ready to share our offerings, both of ?ne coffee and our incredible historic location. Whether seasoned regulars or exuberant tourists, it is always a privilege to share our special little part of the amazing city that is York

Regardless of being a local to the UK or hailing from farther abroad, all enter surprised and enchanted by our spaces, both indoor and outdoor. No matter where you look there is history and character carrying you back in time, making it easy to imagine oneself as a watchman within the watchtower hundreds of years ago.

Being a hidden gem off the beaten path, which is not without the challenges of being away from the bustle of the high street, always brings a valuable perspective. It keeps us grateful for our unique location and for every single customer we have the pleasure of serving and partaking of people’s enjoyment brings a huge satisfaction.

Within the aged walls thrives passion for artisan coffee and people. From our beginnings as a church coffeeshop we desire for people to remember us for more than just a unique setting, but also to walk away blessed and satis?ed by service, coffee and food that are all lovingly made. Gatehouse has become a staple for nestling in on a rainy day or enjoying the summer sun from our rooftop or barbican seating. It has become a part of York not to miss.

Dyls Bar & Kitchen


Dyls Bar & Kitchen is located in the stunningly beautiful Gothic toll house on Skeldergate Bridge. I like to think we have the best riverside terrace in York! Family run, we re-opened in summer 2017 after an extensive renovation and contemporary re-design following the disastrous boxing days floods. Since then, Dyls has quickly re-established itself in a city that is not short of excellent bars and restaurants, through its quirkiness, live music and relaxed ambience.

Situated at the gateway of York as you walk alongside the Ouse into Tower Gardens, we start the day as a brunch and coffee stop – and when the afternoon sun hits the terrace, it tempts out the cocktails and gins! Spirits of another kind have a long association with the area – Dick Turpin is purported to haunt the path on horseback with his black cape and tri-corn hat – and the gentry, including the Earl of Stafford, used Tower Gardens for duelling and settling scores. Staggering figures and blood curdling screams are heard regularly – though not all belonging to ghosts!

The bridge was the third of the modern road bridges to cross the Ouse – it first opened to pedestrians on 1st January 1881 – and if its style looks familiar, the original architect Thomas Page also designed Westminster Bridge in London. Its most north-eastern span used to open to allow tall ships to reach the busy quaysides upstream and last opened in 1975. It was formally declared toll-free on 1st April 1914 – an event that was celebrated in true Yorkshire style with a regatta and a party at Dyls Bar & Kitchen.

Ok, we made that last bit up!