Shambles is one of the best kept historical streets in Europe. On the pretty cobbles and preserved heritage are quaint shops and famous attractions for millions of visitors to enjoy. Amongst it all is a much needed pub maintaining the history of the street and showcasing the quality of the area. We chatted with Shambles Tavern’s Freya Simpson about the pub’s past and present.
“We became a pub in November 2013 – the first pub down the street in over 90 years!” Freya tells us. “The owner, Keith, felt like a proper pub was missing down the Shambles.” So, with the help of his wife Sue – whose legacy remains strong after sadly passing away recently – they transformed it into a pub and kept the feel of the building old and quirky. “The building dates back to the late 1700’s,” Freya explains. “All the original wooden beams are still intact, and little hints towards the Victorian walkway that used to go through the building. Having such amazing features like the traditional staircase really add to the authenticity and make customers feel like they’ve stepped back in time.”
Before becoming a pub, the building had been a wide range of businesses: bike shop, cafe, gift shop, art gallery, and so much more. Originally it was a butchers/slaughterhouse, and you can still see the original meat hooks in the front bar. Freya explains; “The word Shambles originates from the medieval ‘Fleshammels’ meaning to hang meat from outdoor windowsill/hooks. Only a few of the original Fleshammels still exist, outside the Monk Bar Chocolatiers, but we are the only building to still have the butcher hooks inside.”
As well as celebrating its history, Shambles Tavern is also keen to showcase modern local craft in their produce. “Keith is a born and bred Yorkshireman”, says Freya. “Their ethos has always been to support local businesses and create a strong local economy through that.” This has created strong relationships with York shops such as Swains Butchers and Shambles Pie Shop, and means they source only Yorkshire ales, plus a selection of Yorkshire spirits.
From their own Shambles Ales and Tavern Lager brewed by Rudgate Brewery on cask and keg, to bottles and cans from the likes of Brew York and Rooster’s Brewing Co., this is a hub for craft beer lovers. And they also stock a large selection of Yorkshire spirits, including Filey Bay single malt whisky and York Gin. “A recent collaboration with York Gin has given us an even bigger selection of tasty cocktails,” enthuses Freya. “We always recommend one our signatures, such as ‘The Squishy Rig”, which you won’t find anywhere else!”
The liquid can be soaked up with a hearty food menu that starts the day with a cooked breakfast, keeps you going with loaded fries, and fills you up with Ye Olde Pie and Peas. All of this attracts plenty of regulars “who visit us on every day that ends in a ‘y’” according to Freya. “We also have lots of tourists, which is expected being on the Shambles,” she continues. “There’s such a great mix of people chatting in the front bar, people-watching in the beer garden, or simply enjoying a quiet pint.” Whether you’re here for the historic site, the Yorkshire beer, the local chat, the live music, the pub quiz, or a relaxing stop off this famous street, Shambles Tavern is a place for everyone.
