The Burns Hotel in York

Ah, The Burns Hotel – it's one of those classic York pubs that really takes you back in time with its quirky, cosy setup. I have to say, if you're after a place where you can just sit back, enjoy a decent pint of Sam Smith's bitter or their raspberry fruit beer without the distraction of phones everywhere, you'll probably love it. The prices are spot on too; it's refreshing to find somewhere affordable these days. On the flip side, though, the drink selection is quite narrow – think mostly Sam Smith's options and not much else, so if you're fancying a gin and tonic or a nice glass of wine, you might end up disappointed. And let's be honest, that no-phone policy, while well-intentioned for keeping things sociable, can come across as a bit stern with staff jumping in quickly, which has left a few people feeling a tad unwelcome. Overall, it's a solid choice if you're in the mood for a traditional, chatty evening, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea if you prefer a more relaxed, flexible vibe.