5 of the Best Sunday Roasts in Yorkshire
06 Nov 2024
There’s nothing quite like Sunday Roasts in Yorkshire. It’s a time-honoured tradition that has become as synonymous with the region as the rolling hills and (quite frankly) the questionable weather. Whether you’re recovering from a week of work, making the most of your weekend, or simply trying to get in enough calories for the week ahead, there’s no better way to spend a Sunday than by sitting down to a plate piled high with roast meat, crispy potatoes, fresh veg, and, of course, a Yorkshire pudding the size of your face.
Looking for the best Sunday Roasts in Yorkshire?
But with so many options to choose from, where do you go to ensure you’re getting the best Sunday roasts in Yorkshire? Well, fear not – here’s a roundup of the top five spots where you can tuck into a roast so good, it might just make you want to move in permanently (or at least come back every week).
1. The Fox and Grapes – Harrogate
Nestled in the charming village of Follifoot, just outside of Harrogate, The Fox and Grapes is the kind of place you’d expect to find in a Sunday Roast dream. Warm, inviting, and cosy as a blanket fort, this pub really knows how to do Sunday lunch. They’ve got all the classics – from tender roast beef to succulent lamb – and every plate comes with a generous helping of the crispiest, fluffiest Yorkshire puddings known to humankind. We’re talking Yorkshire puddings so big, they might require their own postcode. The meat is always locally sourced, and the sides are carefully crafted to be as comforting as a Sunday afternoon nap.
The Fox and Grapes has earned a reputation for its consistency, meaning you can rely on them to deliver every time. And let’s be honest, if you’re going to drive out to a village for your roast, it better be worth it, right? Lucky for you, this one absolutely is. Pair it with one of their local ales and you’ve got yourself the perfect Sunday experience.
2. The Black Bull – Otley
Located in the historic market town of Otley, just a short jaunt from Leeds, The Black Bull is an absolute gem for those seeking the best Sunday roasts in Yorkshire. This cosy pub is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, with a reputation for offering a proper Sunday lunch with all the trimmings. Here, you’ll find everything from tender roast beef to beautifully cooked pork with crackling that will make you weak at the knees (and let’s not forget the lamb, which is another crowd favourite).
What really sets The Black Bull apart, though, is the quality of its accompaniments. The roast potatoes are crispy on the outside and perfectly fluffy inside, and the Yorkshire puddings are large enough to serve as a small housing development if needed. The gravy? Don’t even get us started. If you’re lucky enough to get the last spoonful, consider it a personal victory. Throw in a choice of local ales or a cheeky glass of wine, and you’ve got yourself the Sunday feast of champions.
3. The Star Inn the City – York
For those who want their Sunday roast with a side of history, The Star Inn the City in York is the place to be. Located along the scenic banks of the River Ouse, this pub combines the best of British tradition with a slightly more refined touch – think of it as a Sunday roast with a dash of class.
The meats are always top-notch here, whether you opt for the classic roast beef or go for something a little more adventurous, like slow-cooked pork belly. The star of the show, though? The gravy. This isn’t your average pour-over. This gravy has a depth of flavour that’ll have you questioning your life choices up until now. The sides are no slouch either. You’ll find your roast potatoes and seasonal veg cooked to perfection, with a Yorkshire pudding so light and airy it might just float away if you’re not careful. Plus, with a river view to boot, it’s hard not to feel like royalty while you eat.
4. The Ship Inn – Marske-by-the-Sea
If you’re looking for something a little more coastal but equally satisfying, head to The Ship Inn in Marske-by-the-Sea. Not only does this pub serve up one of the best Sunday roasts in Yorkshire, but it also offers the chance to eat your roast while gazing out over the waves. Perfect for those days when you’re in the mood to feel like a salty sea dog… but with a much fancier meal.
Their Sunday roasts are everything you want them to be – hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavour. The lamb is particularly popular here, with the meat so tender it practically falls apart at the touch of your fork. And let’s not forget the crispy Yorkshire puddings and roast potatoes, which are the perfect foil to the rich, meaty gravies. You might even get a cheeky seaside breeze to top off your meal – although, you may want to skip the outdoor seating if it’s a blustery day. The last thing you want is for your Yorkshire pudding to be blown into the North Sea.
5. The Rook and Gaskill – York
A short walk from the heart of York, The Rook and Gaskill is the epitome of a traditional pub with a modern twist. With a welcoming, homely atmosphere and a menu that never disappoints, it’s no wonder locals flock here for one of the best Sunday roasts in Yorkshire. Here, you’ll find an impeccable roast beef that’s so tender it almost melts in your mouth, accompanied by all the usual trimmings that make a Sunday roast the institution it is. Think perfectly roasted veg, rich gravy, and, of course, Yorkshire puddings that should be declared their own national treasure.
The Rook and Gaskill might be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to quality. It’s the kind of place where you can expect to see the same faces year after year, because once you’ve tried their Sunday roast, you’ll want to come back for more. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the best Sunday roasts in Yorkshire in a truly authentic setting.
Conclusion: The Yorkshire Sunday Roast Odyssey
So, there you have it – five of the best spots to enjoy a Sunday roast in Yorkshire. Whether you’re craving perfectly cooked beef, lamb, or pork, with all the traditional trimmings or a bit of a twist, these pubs and restaurants will deliver a meal you won’t soon forget. From the cosy charm of The Fox and Grapes in Harrogate to the elegant riverside dining at The Star Inn the City, these places are serving up Sunday lunches that will have you going back for seconds… or maybe thirds (who’s counting?).
In a world full of options, it’s nice to know there are still places where you can rely on getting a roast dinner that’s worth leaving the house for. So, roll up, pull up a chair, and dig in – because in Yorkshire, Sundays are all about the roast, and these spots have mastered the art.
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