Pub of the week: The Star, North Dalton

Despite there not being a plethora of pubs across the middle stretch of the Wolds, the Star has had a chequered past and for quite a while it was hard to work out when it was open or closed. Happily, it now seems to be enjoying an extended stable period and is regaining a reputation for it’s food.

The pub is a large, long farmhouse affair with an extended dining room to the rear and a marvellous front room overlooking the abutted village pond. Here – amongst the mismatched but comfy furniture, you can enjoy one of the five cask ales while perusing the enticing menu.

Amongst the usual bangers and mash and fish pie staples you’ll find more adventurous dishes such as smoked mackerel and beetroot or bubble & squeak risotto. There are roast dinners of a Sunday and every Monday is the popular pie and a pint night.

It’s quite a sporty pub as well, with pool, darts and a domino league on offer and they even have a gun cabinet so shooting parties can safely visit after their day on the Wolds.

Incidentally, video evidence would suggest that Mr Hockney usually took a sandwich with him for his lunch breaks. He didn’t know what he was missing.

The Star Inn, North Dalton, East Yorkshire, YO25 9UX. 01377 217688, starinnatnorthdalton.com