It’s been a gradual metamorphosis for Driffield’s charming Highfield House – one that’s seen the previously residential property and some-time wedding venue carefully transform into a destination in its own right.
A former merchant’s house sitting on the edge of the quiet East Yorkshire market town, Highfield House has begun making waves – and after visiting the spot multiple times over recent months, we’re ready to grab our surfboards and ride into impending Michelin stardom as lifelong fans.
The House – which acts as not only a restaurant and bar, but hotel, too – has been lovingly renovated by international interior designers and owners, Andy and Lindsay Lampard, who after years of designing stunning hotels around the world for big names, have turned their talents to a project of their own.
The result? An impressively beautiful venue with endless awe-worthy sights, a fine-dining restaurant, and boutique bedrooms that give even Claridge’s a run for their money. Put it this way: The Lampards don’t half-arse anything.
Opening their 1864 restaurant just this summer – a nod to the year construction on the property was completed – Highfield has set its sights on something much bigger than being just a pretty wedding venue (something that the venue was popular for over the decades). Today, the venue serves up carefully curated dishes inspired by cross-continental influences, with East Yorkshire produce at the heart of every single dish.
Changing with the seasons, Head Chef David Prysor Jones brings dishes that represent not only what’s in season locally at that time, but exactly what our hearts are craving – this season, honing in on pies, pumpkin, and hearty, Autumnal flavours.
And while their fine-dining menu certainly steals the show, Highfield hits the spot in everything else it does, too, including their filling Sunday roast, incredibly decadent afternoon tea, and inventive cocktails with seasonal flair.
It’s the kind of place you visit for an array of events, be it afternoon tea in the parlour or celebratory drinks on the terrace. So why do we think they deserve Yorkshire’s next Michelin star? Well, this is exactly why.
As a local who has witnessed the venue’s evolution over the past two years, Highfield House has become a gathering point for key moments that we share with those we love. Cosy family Sunday roasts overlooking the garden. Afternoon tea with Mum. New Year’s Eve with your nearest and dearest. And lastly, special date nights in the 1864 restaurant.
What makes the place so special isn’t just the incredible food and impeccable decor. It’s the family ethos that lies central to Highfield House. The way the Lampards welcome you to Highfield with a welcoming smile when they, themselves are enjoying a family Sunday roast. The way the venue’s manager and team will remember you when you walk through the doors for the second, third or fourth time, and the way service is consistently attentive whether you’re visiting for a swift drink or a three-course meal.
It’s a cocktail for success, and one we hand-on-heart believe deserves Yorkshire’s next Michelin star. Watch this space.
Highfield House can be found at Windmill Hill, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 5YP and you can find out more here.
[Featured image: Highfield House]
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