An historic York pub has kicked off 2026 with a makeover.
The Blue Boar, Castlegate, has a fresh look, complete with a new darts board upstairs, pool table downstairs, and different beers on tap – but that’s not all they’ve got planned.
YorkMix spoke with Jason Hawkins, who runs the Blue Boar in Castlegate and the Three Tuns in Coppergate, to find out more.
“I decided to have a little spruce up at the Blue Boar as I felt there was a gap in the city centre market for what is essentially a ‘local pub’ rather than a managed house operation,” said Jason.
“There are a lot of pubs and bars in the city centre that are run by large pub companies and are operated by people who have no real interest in the local community.
“The Blue Boar is a small friendly pub with a new manager in, focusing on providing an environment you can meet friends, relax, watch live sport, play pool and darts, as well listen to live musicians every weekend.”
The Blue Boar also has a regular poetry night that’s supported by both locals and students.
The pub has a long and colourful history. The Blue Boar was originally a medieval inn on Castlegate.
It was demolished in 1730 and replaced by the current building.
Legend has it that the body of highwayman Dick Turpin was laid out here after his execution in 1739 and the landlord charged people to see the corpse.
“We didn’t want to lose the history of the pub and its connection to Dick Turpin so there is still some features in the downstairs seating area that reflect this,” Jason told us.
The pub was again updated in 1851. It has also been called the Robin Hood and the Little John at various times.
There could be further change for the Blue Boar ahead, as they’re looking to change its name again – a name that dates back to at least 1579, according to A Directory of York Pubs: 1455-2004 by Hugh Murray.
“The name change is to reflect the change in direction of the pub and make it more identifiable,” Jason said.
“I’m looking at changing it to The Castlegate Tavern which I think really suits the traditional local pub style of operation we’re going for.”
He said that would depend on planning and “planning is a long slow process”.
Another challenge is the proposed business rates hike – the tax is going up by 90% as things stand, although the government has said it will look again at the amount pubs will have to pay.
“The hike really made me question investing in the business at this time but I wanted to ensure the pub has every opportunity to survive the current challenges facing the hospitality industry,” Jason said.
“I think it shows how much faith I have in my business continuing to provide a service to the local community and visitors alike, despite the pressures huge tax hikes are putting on all pub businesses.”
Blue Boar manager Mark Smithson, an avid sports fan, is also intending to start up darts and pool teams.
The pub is currently offering a small daytime menu, but are planning to expand the offering as the demand increases. There will also be regular drinks promotions running throughout the year.
Stay up to date with the Blue Boar at their Facebook page. Take a look at the revamped pub in the gallery below!
Gallery
