Traddock, The

Every so often one comes across a hitherto undetected restaurant and find yourself wondering "why?" The Traddock certainly did it for me.

An elegant Georgian country house in the unspoiled village of Austwick, this elegant property is furnished with English antiques, and offers a peaceful setting within the Yorkshire Dales Country Park. The feeling is more one of your own home, than hotel.

The chefs are described as "open minded as to what makes a good meal", and believe me it shows. Their Awards include one for the use of organic produce, and combined with the local and seasonal largesse the results can be spectacular. For example a Dales bred fillet steak with dauphinoise potatoes, caramelised banana shallots and Madeira sauce, or grilled Lowther Farm chicken breast.

Cheese buffs will have the time of their lives selecting from Ribblesdale cheeses, Black eyed Susan, Wensleydale Hawes Creamery and Bath soft cheese, all lovingly kept and presented.

A wine list that will delight and entice is only what one might expect in such surroundings. I do admire a restaurateur who has so much confidence in his suppliers as to list them for all to see, When you read it is very plain to see why this is done, with some of the most respected names in the area taking their bow.

Is Yorkshire the new Ludlow, I hear you ask? Was it ever anything else might well be the reply.