I am not sure what surprised me more on an unexpected afternoon in the Dales, that we landed high up at Middlesmoor in Upper Nidderdale and discovered one of the best “proper” pubs in a long time or hearing someone in the bar of the Crown Hotel say in a no-nonsense Yorkshire way: “Well, I’ll go t’ foot of our stairs.”

Pub of the week: The Crown, Middlesmoor
Welcome100%
Drinks selection80%
Atmosphere100%
Food80%
90%Overall Score
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I have no idea why that was said, just thrilled to hear once again something my gran used to say often.
The Crown is that rare find of a family-owned pub devoid of any gussying up; the stone flags on the floor are real as are the fireplaces and locals drinking at the bar.
On the bar there’s one changing beer – this week it is Guzzler from the York Brewery – plus Black Sheep Pale Ale and Theakston’s Best Bitter. A good selection of wines is available, together with everything else you would want to drink. A more than appealing menu offers a wide range of great looking food and the prices are reasonable.
There is also B&B and camping, but a big draw for me is the history displayed on the walls. From landlord Malcolm’s past prowess on the motorbike to sepia-faded images of the long-gone village for the construction workers and families at nearby Scar House reservoir, they are delightful. Oh, and the views outside are to die for.
The Crown is the epitome of a fabulous Dales pub; it is time someone slammed a preservation order on it.
The Crown Hotel, Main Street, Middlesmoor, Harrogate HG3 5ST. Tel: 01423 755204. Open: Tuesday to Thursday, 6-11pm, Friday to Sunday, midday-2pm, 6-11pm.

About The Author

Following a successful career as a chef and restaurateur, Yorkshire's Elaine Lemm is a highly respected food and drink writer and recently voted one of the top 50 in the UK. Elaine is a member of the Guild of Food Writers and author of three books,The Great Book of Yorkshire Pudding, The Great Book of Rhubarb and The Great Book of Tea.

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