The traditional country pub with a little more
Kirsty and her husband Marcus Boxshall-Smith first saw The Eskdale in 2014: “We had our second date in the beer garden!” Back then it was a traditional old boozer, complete with swirly carpets and yellow ceilings and not much in the way of a menu. They went on to do other things but when the sorry old place came onto the market in 2019, they knew it was the right time to make their move. They had a five-month refurbishment plan – but then the pandemic struck and five months turned into thirteen. “It wasn’t what we’d envisaged, but in the end it enabled us to do a really thorough job” says Marcus.
And a really smart pub they’ve created. Choose from two places to eat: Restaurant 1865, a stylish but relaxed room, or the comfortable bar with its calm colour palette, polished wood floors and sofas in front of a wood stove for chilly days. As dog lovers, with four rescue Collies of their own, four-legged friends are very welcome.
The menu reflects the seasons and boasts the very best local produce. There’s a good looking lunch menu too – try the Eskdale burger with triple cooked chips or the highly regard haddock and chips. On a good day, head outside to the beer garden for an al fresco lunch with just birdsong for company; the riverside location is lovely, set quietly in a dip in the lush countryside, with walks from the door.
The kitchen is uniquely ran without a head chef. Instead, four chefs Nathan, Dave, Phil and David input into the menu creation, adding their own touches. New menus are introduced quarterly to highlight seasonal produce. Including special evenings such as Nose to Tail- a 5 course tasting menu honouring the whole beast, be it pork or beef. Valentine’s Day is always a highlight with tasting menus, ‘Death Becomes Her’ or ‘Til Death Do Us Part’.
Kirsty and Marcus are keen to create community events; hosting Eskfest every summer with over 12 musical performances, beer tent and BBQ. There’s a pub quiz on Sunday nights with winnings awarded to local charities.