The Fairfax, Malton

45 miles from Leeds you will find The Fairfax Bistro with Bedrooms situated in a   quintessential English village, namely, East Gilling. Where you will stumble on the most beautiful country side North Yorkshire has to offer. Here you will find a once tired village pub that has recently been brought into the modern age, yet still retains that rustic feel that we all love about country pubs. Good food, roaring fires, beamed ceilings, a stream running through the car park, friendly yet very professional staff, fantastic walks and even a tiny railway for the kids to ride on just 50mts away.

If you fancy a tipple or just a night away, then you’re in for a treat, the accommodation is far superior than you would expect from a local country inn. Flat screen TV’s, surround sound stereo, DVD systems even remote control showers (you don’t get that in the Ritz!).

Everything about this place is just right, even the houses have little bridges over the stream to gain access to them.  The drive there is amazing, towards Sutton Bank and beyond is outstanding. We arrived on a Saturday afternoon with the boys. After checking in we linked their PlayStation the plasma in the room. That was them sorted and freed us up sample the local beverages and meet the locals. The boys were in heaven surround sound PlayStation and no adults saying: “Turn it down,” as the rooms are across the courtyard.

In the evening, after a few pints and a walk, we were ready to tuck in. Local reared gammon and rib eye steak were the order of the day as well as locally produced vegetables and hand picked berries for the pudding. All in all we were in feeling fat but very satisfied.

The following day brought a lovely summer Sunday morning alongside a fat free luxury English breakfast. It really did feel like we were on a miniature holiday. After a long walk and a ride on the miniature railway (which I have to say is slightly surreal), we were ready for our Sunday lunch. Once seated in the very busy restaurant we ordered: Leek and Potato soup x two and Ham hock Terrine x two, both served with fresh chunky bread. The mains were: Roast Pork x two and two portions of Roast Beef, all served with Yorkshire Puddings and heaps of vegetables. Everything is sourced from local farmers who, I believe, dine and drink in The Fairfax.

This country Bistro with Bedrooms is more than worth the 50 minute drive just for an evening meal or Sunday lunch. But without question it’s worth staying over and really enjoying everything both The Fairfax and the area has to offer.

Reviewed by Neil Saville

Review Summary

Atmosphere ♦♦♦
Food ♦♦♦♦
Service ♦♦♦♦♦
Value ♦♦♦♦♦

Contact Details

The Fairfax
Main Street
Gilling East
Malton
YO62 4JH

Tel: 01439 788212