York pub to add ‘play zone’ – complete with retro games – in £130K refurb

A popular York pub is upgrading for the New Year – adding a play zone alongside a fresh range of beers.

Keystones on Monkgate closed on Tuesday (January 2) and has big plans for its £130K, two-week refurb.

The play zone will come complete with retro gaming stations hooked up to 20in tellies. Games will include old school classics like Donkey Kong and Asteroids.

And the ‘Secret DJ’, an app-based virtual jukebox, will allow customers to choose their own soundtrack from every musical genre.

New beers

Keystones is already retro of course – the Grade II listed pub dates from the late 18th century, and comes complete with a medieval icehouse in its rear garden

But it also appeals to students and other young people. And the addition of the gaming stations and USB points in every nook and cranny is designed to increase that attraction.

Five new craft beers and three draught beers are going on the bar.

They are being sourced locally from the likes of Brew York, Ilkley Brewery Company, The Great Yorkshire Brewery and Beer Monkey Brew Co.

New spirits include infusions like Rhubarb and Custard Sweet Gin, Pineapple and Habanero infused Rum and Watermelon Infused Vodka.

‘We’re regenerating’

There will be a Man Vs Food Ribcage Challenge – a new dare for those who defeated the Burger Challenge.

Food includes an all day breakfast, to burgers, wraps, bagels, jackets, sharers and sweets.

“We’re already a hot spot for work, fun and relaxation,” said Keystones manager Rob Highland.

“But the truth is we’ve maxed out our current potential and so we’re regenerating, adding new social areas and a lively play zone which makes the very best of a diamond sized pub.”

Four new jobs have been created as part of the refurb. It is due to reopen on Wednesday, January 17.