Pub Of The Week: Cod & Lobster, Staithes

I can never work out where Yorkshire ends and Teesside starts...Whatever, it’s a spot worth taking a detour for. Park at the top of the bank (there’s no public parking in Staithes) and walk down the cobbles through the tightly-packed fisherman’s cottages tumbling down to the harbour, and the pub, which is directly on the front.

A substantial sea wall built in the last decade stands in the way of your being carried out to sea half way through your pint. It’s got to be on some list somewhere as one of the best locations for a pub in the country. I like it best in the summer, sitting outside with a pint of Copper Dragon, gazing meaningfully out to sea.

But it’s a good winter pub too, with a warm welcome from Fiona and Peter (retired lifeboat man). Inside, it’s all simple scrubbed wood floors and tables, sepia photos showing the impact of those massive waves crashing over the roof. Good value pub grub (including cracking crab sandwiches) are chalked up on boards; they’ll give you homemade steak pie and chilli but let’s face it, it’s the fish and chips you come here for. Glance over your shoulder to see where your tea’s come from, then eyes front to devour it.

Amanda Wragg

Cod & Lobster, Staithes, Saltburn by the Sea, TS13 5BH

THE VERDICT

Welcome*****

Drinks selection****

Atmosphere****

Food****

Prices*****