Pretty UK city home to tiny pub where swearing is banned – and punters love it

A tiny little northern pub set in a pretty city with stunning architecture has some of the most stern house rules you’ll ever experience.

Established in 1798, The Blue Bell is York’s smallest pub. Built around 1600, the pub was last decorated in 1903 and has retained all of its Grade ll* Edwardian charm.

The Blue Bell’s strict rules date all the way back to 1902 where the manager, Harry Hayes was dismissed by the pub’s owners for landing himself in court three times in one month for bad behaviour, drunkenness and non-payment of rent.

The owners – CJ Melrose & Co – installed a new Landlord and Landlady called George and Annie Robinson in January 1903.

Edith went on to take over her parents’ lease of the pub and kept the House Rules in place.

She retired in 1992 after 89 years at the pub, but every landlord and landlady since has recognised the value of her father’s wisdom.

In that time she saw 17 US Presidents, 18 British Prime Ministers and five monarchs come and go – all whilst nothing in her treasured Blue Bell changed one bit.

George was chosen due to his regimental approach to running a small pub and installed a series of strict rules that have stayed in place ever since.

The strictly no-nonsense pub not only bans mobile phones and swearing, but also large groups.

Just as with swearing, loud chatting on mobile phones and the playing of music or videos is also banned.

The pub’s website states: “Just as with swearing, loud chatting on mobile phones and the playing of music or videos ruins the enjoyment of the pub for those around you.

“We kindly ask that all mobile phone conversations take place outside of our public rooms in order for everyone to enjoy their pint in peace.

“We know that your granddaughter’s choir performance means a lot to you but please trust us – no one else wants to hear it.”

Large roups are also banned from the pub – for the simple reason it’s too small to accommodate them.

Groups may be allowed in with prior agreement, but it asks you not to take it to heart if your group is turned away, adding that York is full of large chain pubs with adequate space for large groups.

The Blue Bell’s final house rule is ‘no under 18s’, as the pub is a place only for “adult conversation” where teachers flee to escape the classroom in the school holidays. The pub premises licence doesn’t allow for under-18s.

Despite the strict rules the quirky pub is a fan favourite with those who visit.

Taking to Tripadvisor @Roaming the Ridings said: “York’s smallest pub is always at the top of our list on visits to the City. Expertly run with amazingly well-kept beer and with their own recipe IPA from Brass Castle.

“A rare grade II* listed Edwardian Interior just whisks you back in time with just two cosy rooms and a little corridor. The main bar at the front with serving hatches to the side and rear. A true friendly local at the heart of the city.”

Whilst @RichardB said: “What a fantastic little city pub. Love the rules…no noisy mobile phones etc etc.

“Such a friendly, quirky little place. Just so friendly and the ‘Ghost Porter Ale’ was sublime. The locals were friendly and the guy behind the bar was a font of knowledge about Medieval York. What a lovely lunchtime we spent. A must see when in York.”

Reviewer @QXZWS wrote: “A stunning unspoilt Edwardian gem that is everything a good pub should be. It’s welcoming, atmospheric, community focussed & has great beer and is historically perfect.”