An experience to savour

ROSS HEPPENSTALL HEADS TO A 200-YEAR-OLD PUB IN NORTH YORKSHIRE.

As I finally finish off my main course, I have to admit defeat. An amazing fish platter, following on from the finest garlic mushrooms starter I have ever tasted, leaves me full to bursting.

“Can I tempt you with a dessert, sir?” Sharon, our delightful waitress who proves much more than that, asks.

But no, the two courses I have devoured have more than sufficed and it is the same story for my dining partner.

A mid-summer lunchtime trip to the Friars Head in the heart of the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside truly is an experience to savour.

Situated between Leyburn and Bedale in the heart of Wensleydale, known for its castles, abbeys and waterfalls, the 200-year-old pubrestaurant is part of Akebar Holiday Park.

The site was originally developed in the early 1970s, and includes a caravan and camping park along with a scenic 18-hole golf course.

The Friars Head closed temporarily in September 2022 but reopened under new management on 25 March and has not looked back since.

My father and I travelled up the A1 from Leeds and decided to make a full day of it.

After a morning spent strolling around the historic market town of Masham –which so typifies this stunning part of the world – we headed the few miles along the A684 for lunch.

We were greeted by friendly and welcoming staff who seated us in the Garden Room, overlooking a lawn where diners can play bowls and croquet.

The menu offers plenty of choice and we opted for a couple of lunchtime beers as we pondered our food options.

My father chose carrot and coriander soup (£6.95) – the soup of the day –with a warm ciabatta for his starter and I went for the garlic mushrooms (£7.45).

Most seasoned diners will admit that you never quite know what to expect when you order garlic mushrooms as they can be served in various ways. The Friars Head version were served in a generous-sized bowl, filled with mature cheddar, red onion, creamy garlic sauce with a parmesan and panko topping. It came with a garlic ciabatta and was incredibly tasty.

My father, a noted conversationalist, and I enjoy talking and we struck up a fantastic rapport with Sharon, our waitress who introduced herself to us by name and could not have been more obliging.

As someone who grew up locally, she gave us insights into the history of the area and the Friars Head in particular. With a number of meals on the Specials board, Sharon recommended the Fish Platter and being a fish lover I did not need much persuading.

Served on a large slate plate, the platter included a fillet of salmon, tuna, cod and seabass and came with delicious chunky cut chips and salad.

The portion sizes were perfect and the food was perfectly cooked and beautifully presented.

It was amazing.

My dad went for the 8oz rump steak with new potatoes and vegetables with Diane sauce (£20.95).

He was left similarly smug and satisfied with his choice of main course and various other diners had by now began to arrive, a mixture of couples and small groups.

With the starters and mains proving so filling, we politely declined Sharon’s offer to see the dessert menu.

But, as we continued to chat about the history of the Friars Head, she suggested giving us a guided tour of a building dripping in elegance.

The mellowed stone exterior looks unassuming; stepping inside reveals a charming blend of traditional comfort and individual style.

The main bar area takes its inspiration from the countryside; with flagged stone floors, painted beams, neutral heritage colours and a roaring log fire, it offers hand pulled craft ales, wines and cocktails and a wide ranging menu from light meals to a la carte.

This leads to the Garden Room with its large leather sofas and relaxed vibe.

During the day, the Garden Room is a light and airy space to enjoy the views of the golf course and hills beyond the lawn and bowling green.

In the evening, cosy lighting and underfloor heating make this an intimate and welcoming place to unwind.

The West Wing Gallery comprises a main restaurant, the library, billiard room and a stunning vaulted hall.

Here, private events for up to 100 guests are accommodated in style for corporate events and weddings.

Glass and silverware gleam in flickering candlelight, creating an intimate environment in which to enjoy the superb food on offer.

The Friars Head is justifiably proud of its reputation for exceptional fare, but just be sure to visit with a large appetite if you want to sample the delectable desserts.

The delights on offer in this picturesque part of the world will certainly entice you to return.

Friars Head

Akebar, North Yorkshire DL8 5LY Tel: 01677 450201 thefriarshead.co.uk

H Traditional countryside surroundings

H Excellent pub food

H Outstanding value for money t may be just coming out of season but when paired with this delicious lemon rice, the grilled asparagus makes for the perfect summer dish.

Best enjoyed outside when the sun is shining and with something cold and crisp.

Leeds Cookery School is a cookery school with a conscience because 100 per cent of their profits go to a charity called Zest who help disadvantaged communities in Leeds. They offer cookery classes and courses suitable for beginners and pros. If you want to find out more about them go to www.leedscookeryschool.org.uk