Pub of the Week: Full marks for the Shoulder of Mutton, Kirkby Overblow

It’s long been a popular dining pub but its roots are local and it feels like it. Inside, it’s not a surprise to find flagged floors, beams and banquettes, stone walls and wood stoves and a warm, inclusive atmosphere – and a bunch of friendly dogs at one end of the bar drinking with their owners. Black Sheep Bitter and Timothy Taylor Landlord are beautifully kept, and there’s a good selection of wines by the glass.

The straightforward, value for money menu features classic pub standards; gammon and chips, home made steak pie and, funnily enough, shoulder of mutton - there are no surprises except perhaps the extensive gluten-free menu, and their vegetable game is strong too. Desserts include sticky toffee pudding, fruit crumble and vegan ice cream from Northern Bloc.

Just before lockdown Kate refurbished two bedrooms, Swaledale and Wensleydale in the barn opposite the pub. Both the last word in comfort and luxury they’d be a great stop over if you want to make a night of it and take advantage of some of the walks from the door, including the lovely Harewood Circuit and the Spofforth, Kirkby Overblow and Sicklinghall circular route. On a good day, venture out back to the charming garden. The second Sunday every month finds a quiz, with proceeds going to a local charity. If this big-boned, friendly old pub was on my doorstep I’d be one of those locals with a dog at the far end of the bar.

Shoulder of Mutton, Main St, Kirkby Overblow, Harrogate HG3 1HD t: 01423 871205 www.shoulderofmuttonharrogate.co.uk

Welcome5/5

Food5/5

Drinks choice5/5

Prices5/5