The Best Pubs
in
Ripon

Tucked away on a side street, the One Eyed Rat is a proper, no-fuss local with a roaring open fire that welcomes you in from the cold. With an incredible selection of beers, ales, and lagers at fair prices, it’s a haven for anyone who loves a well-kept pint, and the friendly, dog-tolerant crowd makes every visit feel like catching up with old mates. Whether you’re here for the live music or just to settle into a cozy corner with a wine, this place proves a pub doesn’t need food to be a total gem.

Nestled right beside the river with the cathedral peeking over its beer garden, The Water Rat is a gem for anyone who loves great beer, hearty food, and a genuinely warm welcome. Whether you’re tucking into a Sunday carvery, grabbing a cocktail during their 2 for £12 deal, or just settling in with your dog and a pint of Theakstons on the outdoor terrace, this spot balances cosy charm with a lively, community feel. With a menu packed with generous, homecooked portions and a top tier cask ale selection, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon or celebrate with a group.

This cracking local is the kind of place you'll find yourself returning to night after night, with a brilliant mix of a darts room, a pool room, and a lounge that opens onto a fantastic outdoor seating area with soft cushions and covered spots for any weather. The team here runs a genuinely friendly pub with a superb range of lagers and the best cask ales in the village, plus an array of guest beers and even warm pork scratchings that are a real treat. With live music, a fun Sunday quiz that never takes itself too seriously, and a welcoming vibe for both groups and dogs, it's a top spot for watching the game or just settling in with a glass of wine.

Step through the door of The Black Bull and you’re instantly in one of the friendliest pubs around, where the team greets you like an old friend and the beer is consistently spot on. The beer garden is an absolute sun trap, one of the best spots anywhere to while away an afternoon, while inside you’ll find pool tables upstairs and plenty of screens for the big match. Whether you’re here with your dog, a group of mates, or just for top notch pizzas and a proper pork pie with mushy peas, this place fires on all cylinders.

Just a mile outside the city centre, The South Lodge is a brilliant all rounder where you can catch the big game on huge screens, then settle in for a hearty meal or a cocktail with friends. The beer garden is perfect for sunny afternoons, and the team here genuinely knows how to make everyone feel welcome, whether you’ve brought the kids, the dog, or a big group. With live music, great value deals, and a proper local buzz, it’s the kind of spot that keeps you coming back for more.

For a proper local that fires on all cylinders, the Black Swan is an absolute belter, with a brilliant mix of a welcoming bar, outdoor seating, and plenty of screens for the big match. The team here is genuinely friendly and conversational, making everyone from first timers to regulars feel right at home, while the excellent drinks selection covers beer, wine, and cocktails. Whether you’re popping in with your dog, gathering a group, or settling in for a lively evening, this spot offers top notch value and a warm, unpretentious charm that keeps you coming back.

This lively pub is a brilliant spot for a proper feast, with massive Yorkshire puddings packed full of beef and mash that are easily big enough for two. The team keeps a friendly, welcoming bar where you can settle in with your dog, enjoy a beer or a glass of wine, and catch the big match on the screens. With generous portions and a great outdoor seating area for groups, it’s a top choice for a hearty, no fuss meal.

Right on Market Place, The Unicorn is a historic inn that has been welcoming folks since the 17th century, making it a brilliant spot for a pint or a cocktail in truly characterful surroundings. The food and drink are great value, served quickly and with a smile, whether you're tucked into one of the many cosy nooks or enjoying the outdoor seating with a group. With a superb selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, this place is a top choice for a relaxed, no fuss afternoon in a building that's seen it all.

For a no frills, honest to goodness local that knows exactly what it is, the Hornblower Tavern is a top choice for a pint and the big match. This friendly spot welcomes your dog, offers outdoor seating for sunny spells, and keeps the beer, wine, and cocktails flowing at a great price. With multiple screens for the footy and a proper local buzz, it’s the perfect place to settle in with a group and enjoy a straightforward, lively night out.