The Wharfedale at Arthington

Around 30 years ago, when no’ but a lad, I was carried 200 yards from the River Wharfe and into The Wharfedale Inn, semi-conscious and dripping wet. I was given a large reviving brandy and a large seat in front of the fire.

I had just discovered that a size 3 belly & a size 1 kayak was a great recipe for disaster.

How things turnaround, for these days I am usually carried, semi-conscious, from a pub, following several large brandies.

Since that moment, I had not revisited The Wharfedale, probably a little embarrassed. However when I was asked to review the restaurant I felt that sufficient time had passed and I probably would not be recognised! 

A charming lady, the licensee Maria Gregory, showed us to our table. She seemed unphased that there had been some mix up (on my part) and we were expected the next day.

We chose from a selection of 10 starters, settling for the Large Flat Mushroom topped with Beef Tomato and Stilton (£3.50) and Thai Style Salmon and Crab fish cakes (£4.25). Both dishes were attractively presented and hit the spot.

Maria’s husband, David Gregory, a perfectionist, takes charge of the kitchen and performs his duty with flair.

The choosing of the main courses had been a less simple matter, 14 mains plus 4 specials and 2 for our vegetarian friends (have we got any?) We eventually went for the Wild Boar, marinated and cooked in Red Wine with Shallots (£9.50) and Braised Rabbit in Cider and Vegetables (£7.95).

Once again these dishes were cooked to perfection. The wild boar had been tamed in the cooking and was now tender and tasty. The rabbit, a much-underrated source of food, was a delight to the taste buds and on this showing should be given equal billing with the Wild Boar and Beef Fillet! The vegetables were tasty and plentiful.

After such wonderful food and generous helpings, I was ready to raise the white flag but was persuaded otherwise when presented with the puddings menu. A small homemade ice cream, perhaps. It appears that the word small is not in the Wharfedale dictionary. Ah Well! I didn’t have one 30 years ago so I didn’t think it would do any harm.

The Wharfedale Inn is a good eating place offering quality dishes made with local products whenever possible. It offers astonishing value for money.
I, for one, will be back. Now I wonder were that canoe got to?

Reviewed by Howard Richardson

Contact Details

The Wharfedale
Arthington Lane
Arthington, Nr Otley
LS21 1NL

Tel: 0113 284 2921