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The George Inn - Hubberholme

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Cosy, middle-of-nowhere bolthole

Of all the places to stay The Weekenders have visited, this Yorkshire inn must be in one of the most secluded spots, and yet one of the most beautiful. The George inn, situated in the tiny hamlet of Hubberholme (basically a pub and a church), right in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, could easily have lapsed into ‘League of Gentleman’ territory, but instead is friendly and welcoming, and a fantastic place to spend a countryside weekend.

Inside, the George Inn is thoroughly authentic and just as it would have been years ago. Thick stone walls, a flag-stoned floor and mullioned windows mean that anyone expecting a trendy, boutique-style make-over might be in for a surprise. But the effect is soothing – there is no jukebox or gaming machines and a roaring coal fire in the winter makes this rural scene complete.

Unsurprisingly, The George Inn is full of stories – the author JB Priestley, whose ashes were scattered in the nearby churchyard, described it as his favourite watering hole, and there are numerous tales of other famous visitors. Tradition is held dear in Hubberholme, and a candle is lit whenever the bar is open, in honour of a practice upheld when the inn was once a vicarage.

The six, en-suite bedrooms at The George are rustic, yet modern and comfy and totally in keeping with the place. The windows offer stunning views of the River Wharfe that winds its way through the hamlet, and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it.

Where is it?

Hubberholme is smack bang in the middle of Wharfedale, one of the most dramatic and magical parts of The Yorkshire Dales. Miles of dry-stone walls, meadows and peaks offer some of the best walking country the UK has to offer, and it’s all literally on your doorstep. It’s easy to get away from it all, as once you’ve arrived at The George, you need never get in your car again (until you leave, obviously, and even then it’ll be tempting to chuck your keys in the river).

If you do want to explore beyond walking distance, however, a short car journey will lead you to some of the Dales’ most popular attractions. The breathtaking Hardraw Force – England’s largest single drop waterfall – is a twenty minute drive from Hubberholme. Aswell as the falls and beautiful grounds, Hardraw also plays host to the famous annual Hardraw Scaur Brass Band Contest (www.hardrawforce.com Tel: 01969 667572), which takes place on the second Sunday in September.

For those desperate for some sign of civilisation, the picturesque market town of Hawes is a twenty minute drive from Hubberholme, and well worth a visit. The bustling town’s maze of narrow streets and plethora of tea shops, pubs and craft galleries makes it popular with Dales afficionados, but it’s Hawes’ reputation as the home of Wensleydale cheese that has really put it on the map. The Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre (www.wensleydale.co.uk Tel: 01969 667664) is an international mecca for cheese lovers.

Where can I eat?

The George Inn offers classic pub grub, with more than a hint of a Wensleydale twist – perfect for rewarding yourself post-ramble.

For a slightly more refined alternative, try Amerdale House in the pretty village of Arncliffe (www.amerdalehouse.co.uk Tel: 01756 770250), 9 miles from Hubberholme. Exquisite British dishes, with a strong emphasis on using produce from local farmers and from the house’s own gardens make for a delicious, fresh and vibrant menu.

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Of all the places to stay The Weekenders have visited, this Yorkshire inn must be in one of the most secluded spots, and yet one of the most beautiful.