Windmill Inn- York Greene King pub set for refurbishment

City of York Council has approved Greene King’s application to refurbish the Windmill Inn, in Blossom Street.

The pub company’s plans stated the works would aim to compliment the character and history of the pub which is in a building dating back to the 17th Century.

Council planning officers stated the colour scheme chosen for repainting the front of the building and replacement signs were appropriate for the Grade II-listed building.

The decision comes after plans for the refurbishment were lodged in January.

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Works on the building include repainting the outside of the building white, black and green, with copper-coloured letters used for the sign with the pub’s name.

The chosen colours match Greene King’s branding.

Existing hanging signs which are aged and no longer meet the company’s standards are set to be replaced with new lit ones featuring a picture of a windmill.

Plans stated the pub was in two buildings originally built as cottages the 17th Century, likely during reconstruction efforts following the siege of York during the English Civil War.

Ownership passed to the Lee family in the 18th Century, who leased a windmill on The Mount, giving the pub its name which was first recorded in 1735.

The Windmill Inn, in Blossom Street, York (Image: Google Maps)

The building went on to play an important part in the local economy in the 18th and 19th Century following the opening of York’s railway station.

It had its own brewhouse until 1893 and catered to travellers, providing stabling for around 65 horses.

The ghost of a girl run over by a brewer’s cart is also said to haunt the pub.

The building was granted listed status in 1968.

Plans stated: “The Windmill Inn has a rich history dating back to the 17th Century.

“It has been a staple in the Blossom Street area for centuries, serving as a gathering place for locals and travellers alike.

“The building itself is a fine example of traditional English pub architecture, with its charming exterior and welcoming atmosphere.”