The name alone piques interest, but there’s more to House of the Trembling Madness than its quirky mantle: enter through a specialist off-licence, before heading up the stairs for a trip back in
time – or so it seems. This venue could easily be a medieval tavern – embalmed animal heads litter one wall, while gnarled beams do their best to support the high whitewashed ceilings. The entire
venue is illuminated by candles, and the busy little bar serves (arguably) York’s most innovative selection of real ales. But for all its ersatz antiquity, there’s a rebellious vibe to the place –
whether it’s the Mohawk-toting bartender or the rock anthems blaring in the background. Be warned: Trembling Madness isn’t the biggest venue in town, and staff aren’t afraid to turn away
prospective punters once things begin to get cramped.