A gem of a place: The Blacksmith’s Arms, Flaxton

Cutting through Flaxton village, near York in an attempt to avoid traffic congestion on the ring road I came across the Blacksmiths Arms. With its typical village pub appeal, I vowed to go back. I did and came away very pleased with my find.
The 18th-century Blacksmiths Arms makes no pretence in being anything other than what it is, a pub. Remarkably, it is one which has remained in the hands of Flaxton residents for over 30 years, never once having gone on the open market. Present incumbent Claire Docwra has been in residence for a couple of years. She appears more than happy in the role as she flits between bar, kitchen and chatting with customers, many who seem known to her.
The public bar is roomy and works perfectly well for drinkers and diners. There is a separate room for eating, but I for one would not want to be away from the friendly throng or the roaring fire.
With the Blacksmiths a free house, there is Black Sheep, Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, Theakstons and York Brewery’s Guzzler on the bar. The wine list is less enthralling than the beer, but you can’t have everything.
The menu, like the whole approach here, is plain speaking. It is wholesome, freshly-cooked and with generous portions at reasonable prices. And, if that is not enough, if you don’t want to drive home, then you can also cosy down in one of the three B&B rooms.
What a gem of a place.

About The Author

Elaine Lemm

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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