The Rowley Manor Hotel – Restaurant Review
By Kirsty Masterman, February 2025
One of my favourite things to do on a rare day off, is to catch up with friends for lunch or just a coffee if time doesn’t permit.
So, when I was invited to sample the new lunch menu at The Rowley Manor Hotel by a long-standing friend, I jumped at the chance.
Thirty minutes later, I find myself cautiously driving down a winding, country lane on a cold, January morning, the outline of an impressive country house just peeking through the fog. Thirty seconds later, and it appears before me, like an apparition. But, as my tummy is rumbling, I am hoping it isn’t.
Located just a 5 minute walk from the village of Little Leighton, in the foothills of the Yorkshire Wolds, sits the Grade II Georgian Manor House of The Rowley Manor Hotel. Originally built as a rectory to St Peters Church – also on the grounds, Rowley is said to have been built by Ezekiel Rogers in 1621, who later went on to become one of the Pilgrim Fathers. This elegant manor has gracefully transitioned into a distinguished country house hotel over the years, and it is once again changing, as new owners Simon and Lou look to put their stamp on the place.
“Warm atmosphere”
With ghost hunts, craft fairs and art workshops just some of the upcoming events, seasonal events, such as Valentine’s and Easter are also being organised. There are even rumours of a planned ice rink for the festive months.
As I enter Rowley, I am immediately struck by the warm atmosphere. With its imposing high ceilings and magnificent architecture, the ambience really hits you. Lou appears to greet me and offers me a seat in the bar area next to a very welcoming log fire. I make no hesitation in ordering a coffee, as Simon fills me in on what is known of the history of the place, before taking me on a guided tour of the property, where I learn that circa 1928, Anglo-Dutch sculptor and wood carver Grinling Gibbons was commissioned to carve the pine panelling in the study. For someone who is known for his work on Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral, this is great kudos for Rowley.
The manor’s storied history is evident in the architecture, and as I wander through the wood-panelled rooms, floorboards creaking underfoot, I am regaled with fascinating stories of apparent hauntings and ghostly goings-on that have occurred over the years. The famous moving mirror even shows itself off to me. It’s no wonder future plans include a ghost hunt.
“Portion sizes are more than adequate”
Ghostly goings-on aside, I need to get back to the job in hand, and order some lunch. I am seated in the cosy, yet grand dining room. Entering through the tall, wooden doors into a wood-panelled room, I am immediately struck by the warmth of the space. Fire crackling, I take a seat as close to the burning embers as can be, distracted momentarily by the remarkable artwork adorning the walls.
Still taking in my surroundings, intrigued by the people immortalised in oil, chef serves up the first of three courses. I’ve chosen the wild mushroom soup, perfect for a day like today, and it comes with a delicious seeded roll.
Next up, is The Rowley Manor Club sandwich with a deliciously, well-seasoned chicken breast, alongside a portion of thick, homemade chips, Portion sizes are more than adequate, to the point I’m struggling to finish the sandwich and I still have dessert to come! So, when an exceptionally large piece of chocolate fudge cake turns up, I reluctantly have to admit defeat.
Dining here is certainly a celebration of British cuisine. With menus consisting of everything from traditional Roast Beef to the classic Victoria sponge cake, and with future plans to use locally sourced products, the menus can only continue to evolve.
“Perfectly located”
After what has been a delightful lunch draws to a close, it’s fair to say, I’m impressed with the versatility of Rowley. It’s perfectly located as a refuelling point for ramblers and dog walkers, an ideal spot for a delicious Sunday lunch with family or a catch up with friends for the classic British tradition of afternoon tea. For those in need of a longer rejuvenation, one of the 16 individually designed rooms reflecting the manor’s heritage, offer a comfortable stay and the opportunity to sample the dinner menu. Some rooms even feature four-poster beds and fireplaces!
With its peaceful setting, attentive service, varied menus and historical ambience, Rowley Manor Hotel stands as a testament to timeless elegance and historical charm. I think it’s safe to say I’ll be back for a stay in the near future. This place has me intrigued!
The Rowley Manor Hotel, Rowley Road, Little Weighton, Cottingham, HU20 3XR
Prices for an overnight stay, room only, start at £80 for a twin and £200 for a 4 poster suite. With options to include dinner and breakfast starting at £110.
Weekday A-La-Carte: 2 Courses £27, 3 Courses £33
Sunday Lunch Menu: 1 Course £18, 2 Course £25, 3 Course £32
