The Blue Lion

Business Details

Luxury Country Inn & Gourmet Dining in the Yorkshire Dales

At The Blue Lion, we offer an unparalleled blend of historic charm and modern luxury in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Established in 1840 as a coaching inn, our property has been meticulously restored to preserve its rich heritage while providing contemporary comforts. Our team, led by General Manager Melanie Jackson and Head Chef Lee Clarkson, combines decades of hospitality and culinary expertise to deliver exceptional service.

Guests enjoy individually designed bedrooms, award-winning dining featuring locally sourced ingredients, and access to outdoor pursuits like fishing and walking in the surrounding National Park. With a legacy of hosting notable figures and a commitment to Yorkshire hospitality, we provide a tranquil base for exploring Wensleydale's landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Services

Accommodation Fine Dining Event Hosting Fishing Walking Tours Private Dining Wedding Venue Local Exploration

Highlights and features

We offer 180 years of heritage combined with modern luxury in a Grade II listed building.
Our Head Chef holds 3 AA Rosettes and a Michelin Star for culinary excellence.
We provide exclusive access to private fishing beats on the renowned River Ure.
Our rooms blend historic character with contemporary comforts like super-king beds and rolltop baths.
We are situated in the heart of Wensleydale, surrounded by Yorkshire Dales National Park landscapes.

What people say

Loved every second Out of this world Absolutely amazing First-class food Dog friendly

Website

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Services

Accommodation

Our 15 individually designed bedrooms blend historic charm with modern luxury. Located in East Witton, rooms feature exposed beams, super-king beds, and rolltop baths. The converted stable courtyard rooms offer private access and contemporary bathrooms, while main house rooms showcase period furnishings. All include full English breakfast and VAT.

Fine Dining

Seasonal menus showcase Yorkshire's finest produce, including wild game and local cheeses. The award-winning restaurant offers a la carte and Sunday lunch options with dishes like twice-baked Wensleydale souffl. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Fishing

Private fishing beats on the River Ure provide salmon and trout opportunities. Day passes include equipment hire and packed lunches. Prices range from 50-70 per rod, with catch-and-release policies for salmon. Expert guidance available for all skill levels in North Yorkshire's premier salmon river.

Event Hosting

Historic spaces accommodate weddings, private dinners, and corporate events. The main restaurant and snug rooms feature oak furnishings and roaring fires. Full catering support available with bespoke menus. Located near Jervaulx Abbey and Bolton Castle for combined celebrations.

Walking Tours

Guided and self-led walks start from our doorstep in the Yorkshire Dales. Routes include Jervaulx Abbey (9.1 miles) and Witton Fell (4.5 miles). Maps and local knowledge provided. Dog-friendly paths available with access to the River Ure and Cover Gorge landscapes.

People

Melanie Jackson

General Manager

Melanie took ownership in 2022, bringing extensive hospitality experience. She has overseen major refurbishments while preserving the inn's heritage. Her vision focuses on creating welcoming atmospheres and exceptional guest experiences through attention to detail and service excellence.

Lee Clarkson

Head Chef

With a Michelin Star and 3 AA Rosettes, Lee leads our culinary team. He has worked in top UK kitchens and specialises in seasonal Yorkshire cuisine. His menus highlight local producers and traditional techniques, creating memorable dining experiences that have earned national recognition.

Questions

Does The Blue Lion offer wheelchair-accessible rooms?

Yes, we have accessible bathrooms in our courtyard rooms with direct access and safety features.

Can I bring my dog to The Blue Lion?

Yes, we offer limited dog-friendly rooms and welcome pets in our bar area with water stations available.

Are there parking facilities available?

Yes, we provide free on-site parking for guests with easy access to our entrance.

Do you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes, we offer gluten-free options and vegan dishes across all menus with prior notification.

Is there WiFi available in the rooms?

Yes, complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout the property including all guest rooms.

Can I book a fishing trip through The Blue Lion?

Yes, we arrange day passes on the River Ure with equipment hire and packed lunches available upon request.

Reviews (4)

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Hollie Shepherd

Jan 01, 2022 Report

Fab place! Great location for local walks. Room was lovely, clean, bright had lovely beams & with everything you needed. (We stayed in the garden room) and very reasonably priced for the standard. The restaurant was like stepping back in time almost, candle lit room, log burning fire, staff in traditional black and white with waistcoats and bow ties. Staff lovely - the main guy was eccentric, possibly with a foreign twang Ive seen review saying he was rude he really was not! Very reserved but happy to do anything for you. He can also make a smashing espresso martini which wasnt on the

Craig Thompson

Dec 21, 2021 Report

Lovely staff and the room we stayed in was really nice. If you want proper pub grub or your more normal type food, at reasonable prices then this isn't the place for you. If you don't mind then you'll love it, food is always well presented and served nicely.
Otherwise, the location is a great base for exploring what is, in my opinion, the most beautiful part of the world.

Kev Sampson

Nov 24, 2021 Report

Truly superb food. cheese souffl to die for. crme brul was stunning. braised wagyu short rib was amazing. Craig and his team really looked after us, welcoming and friendly. thanks to you all for the delightful lunch.

Lesley Whitley

Nov 22, 2021 Report

The service was excellent. I ordered a half cloudy cider and it was so nice I ordered a pint the next round. Our party of four had a variety of main courses Duck, Beef, Pork and I had the Lamb. All were delicious and beautifully presented. The desserts were white chocolate and raspberry Bread and butter pudding. Green apple souffle,Creme Brulee and I had Sticky toffee pudding with ice cream. We all finished off with coffee which was hot and strong. Above average prices but ideal for a special occasion. The scenery on the drive there was stunning