There’s only one thing that autumn calls for: cosy pub lunches. There’s nowt much else to do, after all. Boasting a pub culture that is, quite frankly, unbeatable – our national parks are packed to the brim with stunning places to eat and drink, the North York Moors included. Here’s our guide to the best places for a pub lunch in the North York Moors.
1. The Blacksmith’s Arms, Lastingham
Found in quaint Lastingham, The Blacksmith’s Arms offers a delectable menu of proper pub grub, with tons of filling dishes on offer such as steak and ale pie, Yorkshire hotpot, Yorkshire beef with Yorkshire pudding and so much more.
Inside, expect proper traditional decor, with tankards hanging from the ceiling, an original stove, low lighting and classic wooden seating.
The pub can be found at the edge of the national park, with Hutton-le-Hole and the Cawthorn Roman Camp just a short drive away.
The Blacksmith’s Arms, Anserdale Ln, Lastingham, York, YO62 6TN.
2. The Crown, Hutton-le-Hole
The dishes speak for themselves at The Crown, with perfectly presented plates that are sure to leave guests salivating.
From pub classics such as burgers, fish and chips and Ploughman’s lunches, to an array of stunning a la carte dishes – you’re definitely in for a filling lunch at this North York Moors pub (in one of the prettiest villages in the national park, of course).
In the warmer months, guests in the beer garden might be treated by a visit by the local sheep, who often roam the idyllic village green – of course, making it even more idyllic.
All menus are seasonal, reflecting the local ingredients readily available at that time of year.
The Crown, Hutton-le-Hole, York, YO62 6UA.
3. The Fox and Hounds Country Inn, Sinnington
A quaint 18th-century coaching inn found in lovely Sinnington, the Fox and Hounds Country Inn offers a cosy, traditional pub atmosphere, with homely checks and decor that make it the perfect destination after a wander in the cold.
The pub serves up proper posh sarnies for lunch – including lobster and lemon creme fraiche, slow braised Harissa lamb shoulder and fish fingers with tartar sauce, alongside hearty mains such as beef bourguignon, burgers with Yorkshire blue, rib eye steak and more.
The Fox and Hounds Country Inn, Main St, Sinnington, York, YO62 6SQ.
4. The Eskdale Castleton, Whitby
Found within the heart of the North York Moors, The Eskdale is loved for its cosy setting and delicious food, with a gorgeous menu of beautiful-looking dishes to tuck into.
Think elevated dishes made with local produce, including pub classics like fish and chips and burgers, alongside my elegant plates such as Bouillabaisse and spiced lamb shank.
Ideally located on the River Esk, guests can expect fantastic views, alongside the chance to potter around the lovely village of Castleton nearby.
The Eskdale, Station Rd, Castleton, Whitby, YO21 2EU.
5. The Durham Ox, Crayke
The Durham Ox has a history spanning a whopping 300 years, and today, it’s still loved by locals and tourists alike.
Known for its comforting bistro menu, each dish is as warming as the next – with plates such as Yorkshire chateaubriand, seafood platters filled with scallops, haddock and more, and proper Yorkshire fish and chips.
The Durham Ox, West Way, Crayke, York, YO61 4TE.
6. Crown & Cushion, Welburn
Boasting their very own kitchen garden, guests expect seriously fresh dishes when dining at the Crown & Cushion – in addition to a beautiful setting and even more beautiful dishes.
Priding itself on its Yorkshire-sourced ingredients, the lovely pub serves up traditional dishes such as beer-battered haddock, Yorkshire steak and ale pie, alongside lighter lunches such as seasonal Yorkshire salads, kitchen garden soup of the day and more.
Crown & Cushion, Welburn, York, YO60 7DZ.
7. The Fairfax Arms, Helmsley
Just a short drive away from Nunnington Hall, The Fairfax Arms is beautiful inside-out, with modern, barn-like interiors that make for a warming welcome.
Each dish is as pleasing to the eye as the next, with plates such as deluxe fish platters, homemade pies, steak and more.
The Fairfax Arms, Main St, Gilling East, Helmsley, York, YO62 4JH.
8. Carpenters Arms, Thirsk
Found right on the edge of the North York Moors, this beautiful pub is as cosy as they come – bright and airy, representative of its history with tons of original features, and decked out with luxury-yet-unpretentious furnishings.
Similarly to the Crown & Cushion, the pub utilises its own kitchen garden, which helps to make its stunning food as fresh and flavoursome as possible.
Think roast roe deer, crisp pork belly, Yorkshire steak and ale pie and more.
Carpenter’s Arms, 1 Church View, Felixkirk, Thirsk, YO7 2DP.
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