The Gamekeeper’s Inn, Threshfield – Review
By Kirsty Reid
There really is nothing like an escape to the country to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.
With my heart set on a trip to the Yorkshire Dales, the only thing left to do was find somewhere to stay. Scrolling through the sites I found myself spoilt for choice. B&Bs, hotels, lodges, cottages – most, I’m sure, worthy of a visit, but for this birthday mini-break I was looking for something extra special. Then I discovered The Gamekeeper’s Inn.
Located in the picturesque Wharfedale Valley, the pub-restaurant with rooms, formerly a gamekeeper’s cottage, boasts 11 bedrooms, two lodges, a wedding venue and a cosy bar and restaurant.
“Cool and classic”
From the moment we enter the tree-lined drive to Long Ashes Park, I feel instantly relaxed. The holiday and residential park, features modern lodges and, of course, The Gamekeeper’s Inn. Check-in for the latter is easy to locate and it’s not long before my partner, Kyle, and I are shown to our luxury accommodation.
Each of the stylish rooms (from £110 per night inc. breakfast) are named after the Yorkshire Dales fells – including Pen-y-Ghent – our home for the evening, and, the only fell we’ve ever climbed.
The decor is cool and classic with an ornate wooden desk taking centre stage. There is a tea/coffee station – though no mini fridge should you have any wine to chill. The bathroom is spacious and modern with a walk-in shower. Naturally, there is a TV, but we have too much planned to sit around and catch up on our soaps.
After a sunny stroll into the beautiful market town of Grassington (just two miles away), we decide to visit the The Gamekeeper’s spa. We enjoy a leisurely swim before relaxing in the steam room, sauna and hot tub. The only downside to the spa is that, unlike other spas, there is no age restriction and we did get splashed by a few diving kids.
By the time we return to our room we are famished. We quickly freshen up and head back out. With on-site dining, there is no need to drive which means we can both enjoy a glass of wine with our meal – somewhat of a rarity.
My main is delicious. Chicken Kiev (£12.95) stuffed with mozzarella, garlic and ham, served with a roasted cherry tomato compote and lemon and rosemary new potatoes. The chicken is cooked to perfection and the new potatoes are full of flavour.
“Dessert envy”
Monday night is steak night so Kyle opts for an 8oz sirloin (£15.95), served with hand-cut chunky chips, grilled tomato and mushroom and a peppercorn sauce (£2.95). Cooked medium rare, Kyle is more than happy with his dish. The chips look too good not to try, so I nab a few and I’m pleasantly surprised by how light they are.
The dessert menu has ample choice and I’m torn between the brownie and the cheesecake. In the end I settle for the former – white chocolate and macadamia brownie with vanilla ice cream (£5.75). I don’t regret my choice.
Fancying something lighter, Kyle chooses vanilla crème brûlé with lemon shortbread (£5.75), which he finds creamy and the shortbread tasty, though I soon realise he has dessert envy and offer him a taste of my brownie.
After a quick drink in the bar, we retire to our rooms and rise early for a pre-breakfast work out. I enjoy swimming a few child-free lengths, while Kyle heads to the gym.
Following a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs (me) and eggs benedict (Kyle), we head home, but not before making a pitstop at Knaresborough. Boasting beautiful scenery and an impressive viaduct, a visit to the medieval town is the perfect end to my birthday break.
The Gamekeeper’s Inn, Long Ashes Park, Threshfield, North Yorkshire, BD23 5PN
Rooms from £110 per night, including breakfast
01756 752434
gamekeeperinn.co.uk
