The Red Lion is a historic 13th-century timber-framed pub tucked away on Merchantgate in York, with roaring open fires and original wooden beams. It frequently hosts live music in its atmospheric sunken yard, where musicians perform in the evenings, and it has a long-running open mic tradition welcoming solo acoustic acts, acoustic bands, spoken word, comedy and magic at a mellow, intimate volume. A characterful little spot for grass-roots performers in the city centre.
York · Open mic · Closed
This open mic has stopped running. Here's where to play in York instead.
Last checked 20 Oct 2026.
Still running nearbyUpdated 13 November 2026
running
| Status | Stopped |
| Last checked | 20 Oct 2026 |
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The Red Lion is a historic 13th-century timber-framed pub tucked away on Merchantgate in York, with roaring open fires and original wooden beams. It frequently hosts live music in its atmospheric sunken yard, where musicians perform in the evenings, and it has a long-running open mic tradition welcoming solo acoustic acts, acoustic bands, spoken word, comedy and magic at a mellow, intimate volume. A characterful little spot for grass-roots performers in the city centre.
York YO1 9TU
The nearest station is York (rail station), about 15 minutes' walk away.
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The Red Lion Open Mic
This open mic has stopped running. Here's where to play in York instead.
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Last updated: 13 November 2026
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Find The Red Lion
2 Merchantgate, York YO1 9TU
The nearest station is York (rail station), about 15 minutes' walk away. You'll find The Red Lion in York; YO1 9TU is the postcode for sat-nav and ride apps. Check the venue's website for parking and the nearest station.
The Milton Rooms (Studio Bar), The Hop York, Dusk and Golden Ball
Station data: NaPTAN, Department for Transport (Open Government Licence).
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