Bright Star, Luton

Located in a picturesque hamlet, this is a traditional rural pub which, unusually these days, still maintains three separate public rooms. In addition there is outside seating with tables on a large grassy area. A wide range of home made meals and sandwiches is served in the comfortable lounge, and hand -pumped McMullen's ales, AK, Cask and the regular 'special', are well kept by the friendly, welcoming landlord. A pleasant buzz of conversation from a good mix of customers ranging from local farmers to business people provides a relaxing ambience. Horse riders are not forgotten and their mounts have their own drinking trough, helping to make this is an archetypal country pub.

28 Jun 2009 22:47

The George and Dragon, Leyburn

This is an excellent and characterful hostelry which scores highly on all counts. Well kept real ales, including Black Sheep bitter and a range of beers brewed by the Yorkshire Dales Brewery in nearby Askrigg, are served in a small cosy bar. A separate restaurant, which extends into a rustically furnished adjacent room, offers a wide range of freshly cooked, appetising dishes promptly served by efficient staff. Overseen by a landlord and his family who clearly take a pride in their business, it is to be hoped that plans to extend the bar into the adjacent residents' lounge (there are seven en suite letting bedrooms) do not detract from this pub's considerable charms.

28 Jun 2009 19:57