5 of the best pubs in North Yorkshire with epic reviews

From gastropubs with national acclaim to welcoming village locals, here are five of the best across the county, according to reviews online:

The Star Inn, Harome

Main Street, Harome, near Helmsley, YO62 5JE

One of the most celebrated pubs in the region, The Star Inn in Harome has built a national reputation for its ingredient-led cooking served in a 14th-century thatched inn.

Regularly featuring in major food guides, the pub is known for combining “rustic charm” with “refined dishes” that showcase Yorkshire produce.

Diners frequently praise the quality of the seasonal menus, “attentive service” and the “cosy yet elegant atmosphere”.

The Malt Shovel at Brearton (Image: TRIPADVISOR)

Online reviewers often describe it as a “destination for special occasions”, with many highlighting the consistency of both food and hospitality.

Its gardens and traditional interiors only add to its appeal, according to diners.

The Alice Hawthorn

The Green, Nun Monkton, York, YO26 8EW

Overlooking the village green in Nun Monkton, The Alice Hawthorn offers “classic country-pub charm with a modern focus on food”, according to reviews.

Housed in a historic 18th-century building, it has been carefully restored to retain exposed beams and period features while delivering a contemporary dining experience.

Reviewers regularly commend the “warm welcome”, “well-executed British dishes” and “relaxed setting”.

Its combination of “quality food”, local ales and “stylish rooms” has made it a firm favourite with both York residents and visitors exploring the surrounding countryside.

The Wensleydale Heifer, West Witton

Main Street, West Witton, Leyburn DL8 4LS

Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, The Wensleydale Heifer has become one of the area’s most talked-about inns.

Holding an impressive 4.8-star rating on TripAdvisor from more than 1,400 reviews, it is particularly well known for its seafood dishes alongside traditional pub favourites.

Visitors frequently highlight the “generous portions”, “friendly service” and “relaxed yet polished atmosphere”.

A traditional coaching inn with boutique-style rooms, it attracts walkers, food lovers and weekend break visitors alike, with many reviewers describing it as a “must-visit” when in the Dales.

The Angel at Hetton, Hetton

Back Lane, Hetton, Skipton, BD23 6LT

Tucked away in a small Dales village near Skipton, The Angel at Hetton blends historic character with ambitious, modern British cooking, according to people online,

The pub has earned widespread praise for its tasting menus and carefully sourced ingredients.

Online reviews often reference the “quality of presentation” and “depth of flavour”, alongside the “attentive service”.

Despite its fine-dining credentials, the setting remains rooted in traditional village pub surroundings, making it popular for celebratory meals as well as relaxed countryside dining.

The Malt Shovel, Brearton

Main Street, Brearton, Knaresborough HG3 3BX

A Yorkshire village pub just outside Knaresborough, The Malt Shovel offers a more traditional take on the county’s pub scene, per reviews online.

With a strong reputation for “hearty British classics”, “well-kept ales” and “welcoming staff”, it consistently earns positive reviews from locals and visitors alike.

Diners often comment on the “friendly atmosphere” and “reliable, well-portioned dishes”.

Its location in the quiet village of Brearton makes it a popular stop for walkers and those seeking a relaxed meal away from busier places.