Pub of the Week: The Chequers Inn, Bilton in Ainsty, York

“I can do better than this!,” he thought, and decided to have a go. He’s clearly found his vocation.

The handsome old building sits on a quiet country lane with a pleasant, large garden. Inside is a traditional pub in the sense that there’s nothing to write home about on the décor front but it’s very comfortable and relaxed.

The rule of thumb beer-wise is that they have to be sourced within a 25-mile radius from the pub so you’ll find Tim Taylor, Black Sheep and one other – perhaps from Rudgate Brewery, Collingham Ales or Ainsty Ales in Copmanthorpe.

If you’re a wine enthusiast you’ve hit the jackpot as the range is wide and interesting and much thought has been put into the descriptions in the wine list which is easy to follow with no pretentions. The gin selection is pretty good too.

There’s a safe pair of hands in the kitchen – chef Adrian Rowe is from the Durham Ox and his crowd-pleasing dishes are good value, Get yourself down there on a Tuesday for Fish & Quiz night, or if you’re time-strapped, pre-order your lunch and get 20 per cent off your bill.

Better still treat yourself to a wine dinner – a chat with a supplier or wine maker and a five-course dinner matched with wine, in which case can I suggest a night in one of three pleasant bedrooms? They’ve thought of everything.

The Chequers Inn, Church Street, Bilton-in-Ainsty, York, YO26 7NN. 01423 359637, www.thechequersbilton.co.uk.

About The Author

Amanda Wragg

Mandy Wragg is a freelance food journalist, writing and inspecting for the Yorkshire Post, Alastair Sawday, the Morning Advertiser, the AA, Cool Places and David Hancock's Inn Places. She co-writes www.squidbeak.co.uk, an independent guide to eating, drinking and staying in Yorkshire.

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