Address: Church Lane, York, YO1 9QT (now in the courtyard of Yates Bar)
Description
A ghost sign painted onto a large brick wall reveals the bold block letters “Brett Brothers.”
Although the sign has been painted over in white, its original text still peeks through.
Below the prominent name, additional writing is almost completely faded, leaving behind a mystery as to what was once advertised in full.
In the courtyard of Yates Bar on Church Lane
History
Brett Brothers, a wine and spirit merchant company, was established in 1865 and became well known for serving a variety of bottled ales, stouts, and champagne.
Not only did they offer a range of popular beverages, but they also had their own branded drinks, such as Bushmill’s Whisky and Vino Sacro communion wine.
1885 – Advert in Yorkshire Herald
The company’s offices were located at Church Lane and Spurriergate in York. This is where you can find the ghost sign bearing the name “Brett Brothers.”
This same company owned several pubs around York, including the Olde Star Inn on Stonegate, which features a distinctive stained glass window by J.W. Knowles (who has another ghost sign) depicting the name “Star Inn” and “Brett Bro.”
Brett Brothers had a significant presence in York’s pub scene, with ownership of numerous establishments, including:
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Cross Keys, Penleys Grove Street
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Golden Barrel, Walmgate
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King William IV, Fetter Lane
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Ouse Bridge Inn, Kings Staithe
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The Windmill, Blossom Street
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