When, as a young man, I’d just passed my driving test and received my driving licence and first set of wheels, one of the things I used to love to do was drive to idyllic country pubs from the metropolitan bustle of North Leeds. The Scotts Arms in Sicklinghall was, for me, a tried and tested, favourite destination.
So, fast-forward half a lifetime and the opportunity to check out one of my youthly haunts. I jumped at the opportunity to try out the new menu, so on a chilly April afternoon me and my better half retraced the old journey back to the Scotts Arms. Located in beautiful countryside, the Scotts Arms is a charming pub that dates back to 1685. The pub is cosy and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Once seated our drinks order was taken and we were left to look at the choices on offer from the new menu. I couldn’t help but notice how busy the place was which is always a good sign.
For starters, I ordered the crispy panko crusted camembert with sour cherry compote and watercress salad, (£9.25), which was beautifully presented and delicious. Trish opted for the Lebanese lamb kofta (also £9.25) served with a rocket and feta salad and tzatziki with char-grilled flatbreads. It looked and tasted great.
For mains I ordered fish and chips, which came with minted mushy peas (£16.60). The fish was a generous size and succulent: highly recommended. Trish opted for the Scotts Arms famous steak and ale pie; tender, diced steak enclosed in golden shortcrust pastry with steamed vegetables, gravy and a choice of either chips or mash (£18.50). The steak was tender and the pastry was perfect. For dessert, we shared a Sicilian lemon gin crème brulee, with a crisp demerara top and passion fruit pearls (£9.00). The portion size was just right for two (after our hearty mains), and we savoured every bite.
The new menu at the Scotts Arms also features a variety of vegetarian and vegan options - something for everybody. The wine list is also very impressive, and the staff are knowledgeable about the different varieties. Overall, we had a wonderful dining experience at the Scotts Arms. The new menu is impressive, and the quality of the food is outstanding. The service was excellent, and the pub is cosy and welcoming. I would highly recommend the Scotts Arms to anyone looking for a great meal in a beautiful setting.
There is a beautiful beer garden which I’m sure will do a roaring trade once the weather picks up, and the village has several walks that start at the pub, making a great base for a summer’s day out. Whether you wind your way there to reward yourself with a meal and a few drinks, or you eat first and head out to walk off the calories is all up to you. Maybe do both?
There are also five bedrooms which can accommodate guests in absolute comfort, each boasting a private en-suite, excellent hygiene and relaxing décor all to ensure the perfect stay.
Contact us
The Scotts Arms
Main Street, Sicklinghall,
Wetherby LS22 4BD.
Tel. 01937 582100
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