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The best thing about going to a country pub is the sense of ease: whatever the weather’s doing outside, you’re warm, you’re dry, and you’re probably about to eat a really good bowl of chips. What’s special about the General Tarleton - the Knaresborough country pub with rooms from chef Tommy Banks’ Jeopardy Group - is that they apply that relaxed philosophy to the hotel element of what they do too: comfort is at the heart of everything here, from the wildly tasty, gutsy food served out of the pub’s kitchen, to just-right mattresses in the bedrooms that would make even Goldilocks jealous.
Whether you’re after a great base for exploring Harrogate and other parts of North Yorkshire, or eyeing a romantic evening away, the General Tarleton is an understated, stylish choice, where you’re invited to sit back, relax, have a pint of local ale, and enjoy yourself.
Why stay at the General Tarleton?
Honestly, a stay at this cosy bolthole just outside Harrogate feels a little like being sealed off from the rest of the world. Everything - from the brilliant food at the attached pub, to the just-right mattresses in the bedrooms - feel homely but elevated, like how you’d want your own house to be if money or hospitality were no object. Bathrooms come stocked with fluffy towels and fluffier robes, as well as locally sourced shower products, while pretty, rustic bedrooms are equipped with a cracking mini bar and a sizeable (but not overpowering) TV for lazy evenings indoors, soaking up all of the sheer loveliness.
What are the rooms like at the General Tarleton?
With just eight boutique hotel rooms, every detail at the General Tarleton feels like the result of thoughtfulness and deep consideration, with sheer relaxation in mind. There are no unnecessary frills of the stiff-backed type that actually end up making you feel more uncomfortable here - it’s ease and simple luxury that are top of mind. Bathrooms are spacious, beds are perfect for a spot of starfishing, and the decor is understated and classy, with some wooden accents that remind you that you’re in a proper country pub with rooms. For a night or two away from it all, there are few places that would feel more restful.
What is the food like at the General Tarleton?
If “simplicity done brilliantly” is the mantra for the rooms at the General Tarleton, the same ethos is shared by the kitchen at its pub-restaurant, which delivers classics and local ingredients with both accessibility and great technique. Ultimately, this is a country pub with its Sunday best on, serving pub food given a haircut and a spray tan - and it is marvellous. An Old Winchester cheese souffle breaks the rules of physics, because it really is that light and airy, though the champ of the starters menu is a plate of crispy cod cheeks and crushed peas that could go toe-to-toe with even the finest of chippies, and come out victorious.
There’s real flexing on display when it comes to the grill - a 10 oz sirloin steak arrives to the table soft as butter, accompanied by chips so golden that they actually glisten in the low light of the room - and that’s to say nothing of dessert, a chocolate fondant which somehow avoids claggy richness. The wine list is extensive and staff are knowledgeable with their recommendations (and like any good country pub, there is also local ale by the bucketload), while breakfast, included in the nightly rate, caters for all appetites, whether you’re after a fry up with chunky Yorkshire sausages, or a whimsical tower of French toast. Up in the bedrooms, there are also little touches like homemade pastries left for your arrival, which show you exactly how much attention is paid to each and every guest, and make your stay feel extra-special.
What’s the service like at the General Tarleton?
Typical northern hospitality is the name of the game here: staff are never overly fussy, but they are always warm and helpful. Waitstaff in the restaurant are particularly enthusiastic and well-informed on the menu - particularly its special, local elements - and if you need any suggestions for things to do in the area, bedrooms are equipped with a handy, bespoke guide featuring everything you need to know.
What are the pools and facilities like at the General Tarleton?
This is a pub with rooms, so if you’re wanting to do forty lengths in a pool or get a sweat on at the gym, you won’t find the facilities for that here, as you’d probably expect. You will, however, find a well-stocked minibar and useful bits and bobs like shoe-shine kits and tea and coffee making in all of the bedrooms, breakfast served every morning in a bright dining room, and easy-to-use taxi services that’ll take you into nearby Harrogate if you’re in need of a gym and swim.
What is the area around the General Tarleton like?
The General Tarleton is in Ferrensby, near the medieval town of Knaresborough, on the River Nidd. Knaresborough is home to a central marketplace (traders typically show up on Wednesdays, offering fresh produce and flowers), and for history lovers, it’s also the site of England’s oldest tourist attraction, Mother Shipton’s Cave.
Three miles to the west of Knaresborough is Harrogate, where you’ll find high street shops and restaurants, and of course, the world famous Betty’s Tea Room - without a visit to which, no trip to Harrogate is complete. While you might have to queue at the weekend and other busy times, it’s worth the wait to indulge in a crumbly, moreish Fat Rascal (a scone studded with glace cherry eyes and an almond grin), with a cup of famous house blend tea to boot.
Why should you book to stay at the General Tarleton?
Offering comfort and warmth without a hint of pretence, the General Tarleton is a great pick for people who like their country pubs a little on the fancier side. Rooms are cosy and well-considered, bathroom products feel pampering but not prim, and the food at the pub-restaurant is a stunning showcase for local produce, without losing any charm or approachability. If you’re looking for a North Yorkshire spot for a weekend away, to bubble yourself off and indulge, this is precisely where you should do it.
Address: The General Tarleton, Ferrensby, near Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 0PZ
Price per night: Starting at £130 per night
Closest transport: Knaresborough railway station