Great Pubs to Visit in the Yorkshire Dales

From ancient coaching inns to charming Dales Way stops, and from gourmet dining experiences to the UK's highest pub, the Yorkshire Dales boasts an unparalleled collection of historic and welcoming establishments. This guide takes you on a journey through the region's most noteworthy pubs and inns, each offering a unique flavour of Yorkshire hospitality.
The White Swan – Gilling West
A historic coaching inn dating back to the 14th century, recently modernised while retaining its traditional charm. Offers a bar, restaurant, and rooms, featuring an open fire, courtyard garden, and traditional beams. Serves craft beers, lagers, an extensive wine and gin menu, and specialises in steaks, seafood, and Yorkshire tapas. Hosts regular live music and has a modern gym.
The Milbank Arms – Well
A traditional country inn offering locally sourced food and drink in a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its hearty meals and selection of ales.
The Fox & Hounds – Carthorpe
A 200-year-old free house specialising in food, including afternoon teas, homemade jam and marmalade, and home-baked bread and buns. The interior retains distinct areas for drinking, with a separate restaurant.
The George Inn – Hubberholme
A traditional Dales Way Inn set in Langstrothdale in Upper Wharfedale, serving excellent real ales and great food. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and historic charm.
Beck Hall – Malham
A dog-friendly hotel and pub on the edge of Malham village, offering 20 attractive rooms and a modern restaurant serving high-quality, 100% plant-based cuisine. Guests appreciate the beautiful setting and friendly staff.
The Game Cock – Austwick
A cosy pub set in the scenic landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, offering a relaxed ambiance and delicious food. Known for its excellent steaks and friendly service.
The Golden Lion – Settle
A charming pub in the heart of Settle, offering great pub food for the family or a pint out with friends. Guests commend the welcoming atmosphere and quality meals.
The Knaresborough Inn – Knaresborough
A welcoming pub set in landscaped grounds, perfect for exploring the historic market town.
The Royal Oak – Ripon
Located in the heart of Ripon, The Royal Oak is known for its traditional Yorkshire hospitality, serving a range of local ales and hearty meals in a cosy setting. Guests appreciate the central location and excellent Sunday lunch.
The Bridge Inn – Pateley Bridge
A family-friendly pub offering freshly cooked meals and a selection of cool brews. Its lively atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
The Devonshire – Grassington
Situated in the bustling cobbled market square, this traditional, family-run pub and hotel serves the best ales and tasty traditional pub food, offering sumptuous accommodation for guests. Known for its generous portions and friendly service.
The Blue Lion – East Witton
A charming country inn offering a menu that boasts dishes even your foodie friend back in the city would appreciate, set in a tranquil location near Richmond. Guests praise the excellent food and the idyllic setting overlooking a picture-postcard Dales village green.
The Milbank Arms – Richmond
A traditional countryside pub offering delicious locally sourced food and luxurious accommodation. Guests commend the superb food, welcoming atmosphere, and stylish decor.
The Bruce Arms – West Tanfield
An 18th-century coaching inn with cosy rooms, wood fires, and great food, offering a traditional Yorkshire pub experience. Guests appreciate the welcoming staff, great food, and comfortable rooms.
The Fat Badger – Harrogate
A stylish pub offering a range of locally sourced food and drink, providing a delightful pit stop during your Harrogate exploration. Renowned for its fantastic service and amazing food, with dishes like the Chateaubriand and Sunday roast receiving high praise.
The Station Hotel – Birstwith
Located in the quaint Nidderdale town of Birstwith, the Station Hotel presents very pleasant outdoor garden seating as well as indoor and luxury guest bedrooms. Dogs and children are welcome, and it supports passing ramblers with filling meals and local beverages.
The Old Bell Tavern – Harrogate
Located directly opposite the Pump Room Museum and Valley Gardens, this pub serves locally sourced food and drink, and provides a delightful pit stop during your Harrogate historical exploration. It has been operating for over 230 years and has recently had a fresh and inviting refurbishment for its local customers
The Sportsman’s Arms – Wath
This historic pub possibly has one of the most beautiful locations in the Dales. A short walk away from the scenic Gouthwaite Reservoir, the Sportsman’s Arms is always a favourite lunch stop for walkers. A traditional pub menu is available, and it offers gorgeous outdoor seating in a truly idyllic village.
The Queens Arms – Litton
A traditional Dales pub offering a warm welcome, real ales, and hearty meals. Known for its cosy atmosphere and friendly service.
The Buck Inn – Buckden
A traditional village pub offering a selection of local ales and home-cooked meals. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the pub's role as a community hub.
The Bluebell Inn – Kettlewell
A charming pub offering real ales and a selection of hearty meals. Located in the picturesque village of Kettlewell, it's a popular spot for walkers and cyclists.
The Falcon – Arncliffe
A traditional pub offering a selection of local ales and home-cooked meals. Located in the scenic village of Arncliffe, it's a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.
The Green Dragon – Hardraw
A historic pub located near the famous Hardraw Force waterfall. Known for its traditional ales and hearty meals, it's a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The Farmers Arms – Muker
A traditional Dales pub offering a selection of local ales and home-cooked meals. Located in the village of Muker, it's a popular stop for walkers exploring Swaledale.
The Craven Arms – Appletreewick
A quirky country pub in Appletreewick, Yorkshire Dales. Nearly 500 years old, this gem is a favourite among locals and visitors
The Tan Hill Inn – Richmond
The UK's highest pub, located at 528 meters above sea level. Known for its remote location, stunning views, and hearty meals.



