The Pheasant, Harome

Hotel review

Picture the most idyllic village imaginable in Yorkshire. There are beautiful mushroom-topped, white stone cottages, a pretty honey-hued church and wild North Yorkshire walks at your doorstep. Then, there’s The Pheasant Hotel. This handsome country house hotel cloaked in greenery sits on a sleepy laneway next to some dreamy cottages with the wide, open countryside moments away – and the village duck pond at the edge of its neatly trimmed lawns. The hotel has 16 luxurious rooms, suites and cottages and it is so cosy it feels like a home-from-home – it’s perfect for a spoiling country escape with first-rate food and service. Helmsley is only a short drive away, with its walled gardens, castle, cute teashop-lined square, and the bluebell-fringed walk from Helmsley to Reivaulx Abbey is a must.

Inside the hotel, decadent country-chic design rules the day, with warm, earthy hues and snuggly-soft furnishings in the communal areas. There’s a bright breakfast conservatory where everything feels a little old-school and just as it should be: there are pressed white linens and brightly polished silverware with your gloriously runny boiled eggs and a shiny pot of coffee. The sassy two-AA Rosette hotel restaurant is helmed by chef Vincenzo Raffone and serves up delicate fine dining dishes with flair. Try the prettily-plated Thrikleby duck breast with red currant or lemon sole with brown shrimp hollandaise -- finish with a local cheeseboard. In the warmer months, go for preprandial drinks on the outdoor terrace first. One of the hotel’s greatest assets is the witty general manager, Liam, who makes everyone instantly feel welcome.

Book Pear Tree, a fetching family cottage set among the pear and plum trees. The family cottage sleeps four and is a restful, roomy stay with a small, well-equipped kitchen and a darling living room with a wood burner. Go for a dip at the hotel’s heated, pheasant-branded, swimming pool just next door – it feels like you’re staying at a friend’s characterful country home not a hotel. Ultimately, The Pheasant is ideal for those seeking warm hospitality, great food and a sweet slumber – and the beauty of North Yorkshire’s countryside awaits, for those who wish to truly experience this ravishing region.

Rachel Everett Review published: 14/09/2021