BOSSES at a fire-hit brewery in York city centre said part of the site will be open with “business-as-usual” today (Tuesday, September 16) - as they paid tribute to firefighters who fought the blaze.

Wednesday, 17 September 2025 18:10

By Kevin Glenton

As reported by The Press, a fire broke out around 2am this morning at Brew York’s taproom in Walmgate. The site includes one of the firm’s breweries, a beer hall and a riverside garden.

Brew York managing director Wayne Smith said the fire was confined to the outside area and no-one was on site at the time.

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Fire in Walmgate, York on the morning of

September 16, 2025

Eyewitnesses from nearby flats in Rowntree Wharf said residents were overlooking the scene from their balconies on the other side of the River Foss.

One couple who live in Rowntree Wharf, and did not wish to be named, said: “The loud bangs woke us up at 2am.

“We thought they were fireworks at first and then as they got louder we knew something wasn’t right.

“We looked out of our window and plumes of smoke were coming up the river and the smell of burning was very strong.

“One of us went out along with a few other residents, who were panicking as we couldn’t locate the source of the fire at first.

“Then we saw the smoke and flames at the back of our building across the water coming from Brew York.

“The locals were still looking out of their balconies as the fire brigade arrived to put the fire out.

“It was so sad to see a local business suffer like this – we love Brew York as our local.”

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