The Blue Lion

The perfect base for English country sport and leisure

Fishing, walking, shooting, racing - experience the simple pleasures of the Yorkshire Dales from this welcoming 18th-century coaching inn made even better by an extensive yet sympathetic renovation. Wensleydale may be famous the world over for its deliciously crumbly cheese, but a stay at The Blue Lion in East Witton will reveal a host of additional local treasures, whether culinary, equine or pedestrian! The historic ruins of Jervaulx Abbey are certainly worth a visit; Catterick, Wetherby, Ripon and York race tracks are all within an hour's drive, and the nearby town of Middleham is making its name as the 'Newmarket of the North'. For those with outdoors inclinations, other activities available include golf, tennis and pony trekking. Upon your return to The Blue Lion from an evening stroll along the riverbank - or, if you prefer, a taxing ten mile challenge hike - you may decide to put up your aching feet and order dinner at the hotel. If so, you can choose the flag-stoned bar, with its open fire and ample selection of hand-pulled beers, or the warm and inviting restaurant. Either way, local game and fish - all procured from one of three provincial estates - should be available.