The New Inn, Eccup: 'I found the sort of good old traditional Yorkshire pub you dream of stumbling across'
The sight of the first daffs emerging from their long slumber not only brings a welcome splash of colour after winter’s dullness, it’s a surefire sign that spring is slowly unfurling and the promise of all that comes with it.
It’s one of my favourite times of the year to go for a walk and blow the cobwebs away, especially when there’s the promise of a pitstop at the end of it.
So it was with this in mind that I headed to The New Inn, near the village of Eccup, a few miles north of Leeds, and a stone’s throw from Eccup reservoir.
Following a £420,000 refurbishment, The New Inn has been given a new lease of life under landlord Kyle Henderson and his team, with the backing of owner Scott Westlake, the man behind The Myrtle Tavern in Meanwood.
With its striking fireplace, comfortable seating and friendly atmosphere, this is the kind of good old country pub you dream of stumbling across just so you can start boring your friends senseless about how nice it is.
It’s down the road from the set of TV’s Emmerdale which might pique the interest of the soap fans among you as you never know who you’ll spot at the bar.
The décor has a typical country pub vibe and there’s a distinct Yorkshire theme to many of the framed prints that adorn the walls, but without being all ‘ee bah gum.’
On the beer front, there’s a judicious selection of ales including Kirkstall Brewery’s Three Swords, Timothy Taylor Golden Best Bitter and Black Sheep Best Bitter, as well as a decent wine list.
The food here is good, too, with a nod to the pub classics – I can recommend the fish pie and they do an epic steak and ale pie of Desperate Dan proportions.
So if you’re after a little pick me up after a weekend walk or want somewhere to go with friends that’s a bit off the beaten track, then this place could be just the tonic.
Welcome 5/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Drinks choice 4/5
Prices 4/5
The New Inn, Eccup Lane, Leeds. LS16 8AU.