This has to be one of the smallest pubs in York. Split in two by the bar itself, the two rooms would be lucky if they could hold fifty people between them. Nevertheless, awards for Regional Pub of the Year, York Pub of the Year and so on attest to its popularity. The walls are panelled in the original "Edwardian" dark wood (untouched since 1903) and, if you're in the Smoke Room, you'll be served through a hatch. When I visited, there were a couple of regulars drinking in the corridor that connects the two rooms, fussed over by the attentive landlady. The reputation of this place preceeded itself - I'm sure it was runner up in Camra's Best British Pub one year - and a visit might tell you more about Camra's tastes than anything else. It's undeniable that a pint in The Blue Bell will take you back to an era when pubs were for supping ale with a Woodbine, Sporting Life and flat cap, so whether or not you'd enjoy that experience will determine whether or not you'll come back and visit.
Check their Website.
