Queens Head, The

Here is the traditional English pub, tucked away up a remote Yorkshire valley, which leaves you wondering how it survives - until you go inside, passing the picture of Queen Elizabeth I, (our sponsor?) and see for yourself.

This is most definitely not a place for those who like their inns gastro-style. It has long enjoyed a reputation for good food, coupled with informed local gossip and sound local colour. Eating is done in four rooms, and don't expect frills - but do look forward to excellent quality cooking that is satisfying, genuine and in comfortable portions. Pudding might well turn out to be their renowned chocolate scrapheap, designed to convert any non chocolate-lovers into rabid fans of the stuff.

Quality local ales are well represented with Theakston Old Peculier, Black Sheep and Golden goose. This is a pub for those with a taste for some of the better manifestations of old England, the sort of place you wouldn't mind getting snowed up in - and I'd say the chances are decidedly better than average.