Spring Sips & City Strolls: Living (and Drinking) Well in York This April
- Howl York
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
If there’s ever a time York feels like it’s shaking off its medieval cloak and stepping into something lighter, brighter, and full of promise—it’s April. The city feels alive again: daffodils line the city walls, the blossom tree's are blooming, the Minster glows in golden hour light, and you can finally sit outside with a glass in hand without losing all feeling in your fingers.
At Howl, we like to think of ourselves as a seasonal creature—rooted in what’s fresh, what’s local, and what feels good right now. And this April? It’s all about moving towards the lighter side of wines, spring ingredients, and slowly stretching into the long, lazy evenings ahead.
Life in York, Re-imagined by the Glass
There’s something special about April in York. It’s that quiet joy of wandering Shambles Market with no real agenda. It’s picking up wild garlic (every local has their favourite 'secret' spot), and tucking into something warm and buttery at a cozy table while the breeze outside still carries a bit of a bite.
That in-between season energy is what we’re channeling at Howl right now—equal parts comfort and curiosity. We've got cosy seating inside with cushions and candles but, also a secret suntrap garden out back. Whether you’re joining us pre-theatre, post-gallery visit ,or popping in after a long riverside walk, this is your space to slow down and savour the moment.
What We’re Pouring: Spring's Best Natural Wines
Natural wine, unfiltered, unrefined, and full of personality, is the perfect match for spring—a season that’s all about new growth, unexpected flavours, and waking up your senses.
This month, we’re loving:
Zippy pét-nats that fizz with wild energy and taste like spring in a bottle. (Perfect with sunshine and snacks.) We've got 3 new bottles on our Bottle Shop shelves, and 3 others on our specials board.
Textured orange wines that feel both earthy and refreshing—ideal for the sunshine and the lingering April chill. Whether you like them fruit-forward, dry or funky, we've got one to suit all tastes.
Light reds you can chill—juicy, joyful, and ready for anything, whether it's a cheese board or a plate of charcuterie, chilled reds are a great choice for warm weather and pairing with seasonal bites.
Not sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for. We’ll guide you, no judgement, no jargon—just good wine and good stories.
On the Plate: April’s Best Ingredients
We’re leaning into seasonality with ingredients that sing in spring:
Wild garlic, the unofficial perfume of Yorkshire woodlands, makes its way into creamy whipped butters, dips, and dressed-up foccacia.
Cauliflower —roasted with orange, walnuts, & tahini is a personal favourite right now.
Tender greens, spring radishes, and soft herbs that bring colour and crunch to every small plate.
It’s food that feels like it was made for natural wine: fresh, vibrant, and just a little bit wild.
Looking Ahead: May We Tempt You?
April’s got its charm, but we’re already dreaming of May. Longer evenings, rosé season peeking around the corner, and new wines arriving from our favourite European winemakers. Expect more al-fresco seating, playful pairings, and exciting events.
We’re planning some lovely things—pop-ups, tastings, and surprises that make Howl feel like a home away from home.
So, what are you doing this week? Let the city lead you. Take the scenic route, say yes to the long way home, and end your day at Howl with something natural in your glass and something seasonal on your plate. After all, it’s spring in York—why not drink it all in?