Probably York’s most authentic heritage inn. Originally built in 1417, the present building bears testament to the lack of spirit-levels at the time! With creaking floors and slanted doorways as well as beams with a purpose (rather than for mock effect) the Black Swan exudes a sense of history. It also offers many a ghost story including one of a man in a bowler hat who wanders the upper floor awaiting the arrival of a visitor and one of a beautiful young woman with black hair who stares, face unseen, into the fire. It’s also a popular folk music venue.