I don't like to leave negative reviews, but in this instance, I feel it's needed in the hope the owners read with an open mind. We holidayed in the village and passed several times whilst exploring. After visiting Pen-y-ghent we decided to have a meal in the local pub. We quickly discovered from the eye rolling bar tender that they really want you to book a table, but we were begrudgingly told to come on in. Service in the bar was pleasant and swift before being directed to the restaurant. Here we were greeted by William from the kitchen. When taking our order, we were told the beef with Yorkshire pudding would be quick, but the lasagna would take an age. Throughout ordering we got the distinct impression we were not welcome and everything was a chore. Probably because we hadn't booked. Meals came out within 15 minutes and were okay. Best part was the beef in yorkshire puds but not all had the same veg. But then we didn't book. Although it would have been nice if someone asked if our meals were okay. 2 of our party left whilst the other two stayed for desserts. When William asked where the others had gone, we jokingly said they were tired, but we stayed behind after spotting the desserts on the menu. After walking off and pottering around, I then had to ask more directly... but politely if we could order some desserts. Another eye roll and walk off. Then, on passing from another tablet, he then called over with... 'well what do you want?'. Luckily we had already chosen as the menus were long gone. We politely asked for a Crumble... 'well that's our last one gone then'... came the response. And an Apple pie. What do you want with it? What are the options? No menu's were given so I has to ask. Another eye roll came along with a moody response of the options. Not wanting to put William out... as after all we didn't book... we went for the ice cream. He then abruptly heads off to the kitchen. What came out was a crumble with little crumble... and an Apple pie with soft crust and no cinnamon as I recalled from the long gone menu. But I know... we didn't book. We swiftly ate up, paid, and left. I like to think I'm fairly well travelled and I know Yorkshire Dale's is a very friendly welcoming place that relies on tourists. But this Free House is certainly not 'the pride of Wensley dale' as their website address suggests. If you can't serve drop in tourists, please say so on arrival so they can move on instead of treating them as inconsiderate patrons. Unfortunately, they are the only pub in the village, so perhaps they feel they can treat the public this way. Overall, meals were okay but a little over priced. Drinks were okay as well. Wasn't the cleanest or most up to date of venues. I didn't visit the toilets myself but was told by my daughter the door leading into the ladies was off it's hinges and couldn't be closed. There didn't appear to be any disabled access. Dogs are welcome indoors and there are outside benches. I hope the owners read and I wish them well for the future... but I won't be revisiting. Perhaps put a big sign up outside that says... 'must pre-book a...
Read moreWhat a delightful overnight stay at The Rose and Crown in Bainbridge! Hesitant due to older, less favorable reviews, we were swayed by recent praise for the new management and decided to give it a go. We’re so glad we did, this historic pub, dating back to 1445, has undergone a remarkable transformation in a short time. Emma and Tim (hopefully we got their names right!) are the heart and soul of this revival. Despite inheriting a pub in poor condition, their hard work and positive attitude shine through. Not once did we hear a complaint; they were fully focused on restoring this gem. Chatting with locals, we learned they’re thrilled with the changes, proud to see their beloved establishment thriving again. The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and buzzing with energy, a testament to the new management’s efforts. The pub’s historic charm, with its exposed beams and cozy corners, paired perfectly with a lively yet relaxed vibe. The beer selection was a variety of options on tap, catering to all tastes. For dinner, we ordered pies from the menu: Andrew chose the steak, and I went for the veggie option. Both were outstanding, making it impossible to pick a favorite. Andrew declared the steak pie’s crust the best he’s ever had, and he’s no stranger to pies! The veggie version was equally flavorful, with a perfectly flaky pastry. Portions were generous, and the meal felt like excellent value for the quality. The pub was busy, and while the team of two managed admirably, it was clear they could use extra hands. Their dedication was inspiring, always smiling, chatty, and creating a welcoming environment despite the workload. After a few drinks in the cozy bar we retired to our room. Which was spotlessly clean, tastefully presented, and a comfortable bed, we sank into a deep, restful sleep and woke refreshed. Breakfast, served in the charming restaurant area, offered a generous spread—cereals, fresh fruit, croissants, toast, yogurt, and a perfectly cooked full English breakfast that hit all the right spots. Emma and Tim’s tireless efforts, coupled with their warm hospitality, made our stay unforgettable. We hope they find the right staff soon to support their vision. The Rose and Crown is a shining example of what passion and hard work can achieve. Top marks, and thank you for a wonderful experience, we wish you all the best in continuing to breathe new life into this...
Read moreCalled into this establishment for lunch myself, wife and daughter, can only say I should have checked the reviews.|Drinks were ordered and were reasonably priced. A lovely sunny day so we sat outside to nice views. That was the highlight of the visit.|Menu was limited but there was something for all (if they had it). The specials board listed 2 burgers one with fries and one with chips. I ordered the special with chips my wife and daughter ordered sandwiches and a side of chips. I was then informed they were out of Burgers. On the menu they recommended the Pies Galore all home made. I therefore ordered the steak and kidney with veg and chips. The sandwiches arrived and were what you would expect from a pub and the girls said they were fine. Shortly after my food arrived it was the saddest plate of food I have ever been served in 60 years of eating in pubs and restaurants. The pie was approximately 4 inches square and three quarters of an inch thick quarter inch of base pastry quarter inch of filling and a quarter inch of pastry on top I cut of the top to reveal 8 very small cubes of beef and no kidney. The side edge of the pastry was solid and my knife wouldn't cut it, it was inedible. The veg consisted of frozen carrots and green beans (barely) warmed up in the microwave. When ordering we stipulated chips as opposed to fries what were served were fries that appeared to have been cooked in oil. A jug of gravy arrived that had the consistency and look of brown frog spawn it was to say the least disgusting. The saddest point was when a young girl with special needs (Downes) came out and asked if the food was alright, we said it was very poor at which point she giggled and left. I in no way include this young lady in the negative points of this review, she was clearly doing the bidding of the management. My wife then went indoors and spoke to management who made a number of excuses about staff, the kitchen, they had run out of chips, and said the pies were home made. It was suggested they sack the Chef.|Other than an apology, there was no recompense for the poor service and even poorer food.|Had we caught them on an off day? No on checking reviews later that day this tended to be the norm for this pubs service and food. |Do...
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