Country pubs are a thing of beauty. They’re sometimes more of a destination than that of the surrounding areas, which is definitely the case for some of the Yorkshire Dales top boozers that are full of that old-fashioned charm that has had travellers visiting for hundreds of years.
One such pub is the Craven Arms, which is located in the idyllic tiny village of Appletreewick in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s the perfect spot to visit after a days hike – and we aren’t the only ones who think so, as The Telegraph has featured the venue in its list of pubs “worth travelling for” series.
It praises the pub writing: “Stone-flagged floors, oak beams, low ceilings, gas lighting, old games (try “Ring the Bull”) and wonderful beer: the Craven Arms may be the platonic ideal of the rural English pub. It really is one to savour, from the faux road sign at the entrance that declares the Craven Arms to be “the Gateway to the Ales” to the hearty grub that draws customers from near and far.
The pubs is located in the heart of the Wharfedale region of the Dales and really is something special. It’s gained a reputation for its great food and ale over the years with its kitchen taking enourmous pride in their menu curated using locally sourced produce – which is saying something when you’re situated in the lush national park.
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You can enjoy your fantastic meal with a variety of real ales that are proper cask conditioned in their own cellar on offer under gas lighting with the warmth of a real log fire and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Originally constructed as a farmhouse during the 16th century, the Craven Arms gradually transformed into the public house it stands as today. Initially, the farmers utilised it as a means of additional income by selling ale from the kitchen window. Over time, it expanded to include accommodations and a stop for horses and coaches, offering food to travellers. Among the notable recent proprietors were the Spencers, Falshaws, and the Nicholsons.
Presently, still under family ownership, the establishment has undergone a restoration process, reverting from a previous attempt at modernisation. It now boasts a tap room, main bar, dining area, snug, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Recent enhancements include the addition of the Cruck Barn and Shepherd huts at the rear of the property.
You can even stay over in one of the Shepherds huts for an extra special.
Check out our visit to the village of Appletreewick in the Yorkshire Dales National park below:
Visit the website here for more information or to get booked in. Craven Arms, Appletreewick, Wharfedale, Yorkshire Dales BD23 6DA
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Feature Image Credit: IG; fayazey
