The Royal Oak, Staveley: The historic Yorkshire village pub selling quality food at sensible prices
The village of Staveley near Knaresborough, population 400 or so, has a number of attractions, including a nature reserve and All Saints’ Church.
Tucked in a corner near the Anglican church is also The Royal Oak which has been a familiar feature in Staveley since the 17th century.
It is managed by Catherine Plowman who’s been in charge for the last eight years, having previously run two pubs in Blubberhouses and Pateley Bridge.
The happy atmosphere and warm welcome – two roaring fires help – is set against a sad background.
In a highly competitive market, The Royal Oak’s reputation for good quality food at sensible prices is being maintained, the steak and ale pie is the most popular.
Catherine’s experience of the pub trade for more than 40 years means she knows how to attract customers.
For example, throughout January, 30 per cent is knocked off two course meals between Wednesdays and Saturdays prepared by chef Simon Swayne who’s also the landlord.
The pub’s enticing interior and smiling staff – three full time and four part-timers – attract a broad social mix.
All sorts of people call in for food and a pint or two – Timothy Taylor’s is the best-selling beer – 300 pints a week are happily downed.
Sundays are when the pub is busiest.
The staff serve between 80 and 100 lunches in the dining areas capable of sitting 60. Two courses for £24.50, and one promotion that’s doing well is on a Wednesday when over-55s can have lunch for £14.95.
In July 2021, Catherine’s daughter, Natalie, died from cancer and since then, in her memory, the pub annually raises money for cancer charities.
The Royal Oak sponsors Knaresborough’s clay pigeon shooting club, the current champions of the Nidderdale League.
Their trophy sits proudly in the bar.
Welcome 5/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Drinks choice 5/5
Prices 5/5
The Royal Oak, 109, Main Street, Staveley, Knaresborough,HG5 9LD.