The Old Grey Mare in Clifton Green has officially been reopened by Brew York, following its closure in July 2024.
It is the seventh venue in the brewery’s portfolio, which started with the opening of their tap room in Walmgate in 2016.
Today’s opening (February 21) followed a residents’ night. Brew York founder Wayne Smith cut a ribbon at the door, and welcomed dozens of residents inside.
Wayne Smith speaking at the opening (Image: Harry Booth)
“One of the things that we did when we first started Brew York was to make great beer, but also create an environment for people to drink it in,” Wayne told The Press.
Wayne said, whilst many pub companies are struggling in the current economy, that Brew York is aiming to continue to grow their business and offer people a place to drink.
He added: “If you’ve got a venue people which want to come to, then they’ll try your beer that way.
“As we’ve grown as a business we’ve looked to replicate that feel in several venues but this is our first traditional pub in York. It looks and feels like a traditional pub but has that Brew York twist.”
He described the 17th century site as an “integral part” of its local community.
“We’re really pleased that we get to roll out this concept and we hope people enjoy it,” said Wayne.
Also present at the opening was York Central MP Rachael Maskell, and Clifton Ward’s Cllr Danny Myers.
Ms Maskell, who has previously met with the Government to discuss its support of local pubs, said: “Local pubs are part of the community and we can see from Brew York that they really do stand for the future and how we need to see the industry go. We need to ensure that pubs are in the community and for the community.”
Cllr Myers added: “Local residents have been crying out for the Old Grey Mare to reopen and run as a community asset, and we’re super excited that it’s Brew York coming in. An independent York-based brewery running a local pub is a massive win.
“We’re seeing people wanting to come to Clifton and invest in Clifton, and we are working step by step to get Clifton Green vibrant and buzzing once again.
“The key point is that Brew York brew excellent beer, and that’s the real bonus for people of Clifton and York.”
The Old Grey Mare will be open from midday to 11pm, Sunday to Thursday, it will close at midnight on both Friday and Saturday. The pub also serves food made by vendors YUZU.
