The Bridge Inn

Two of the Yorkshire Dales' wildest and prettiest dales meet at Grinton; Arkengarthdale and Swaledale collide in a symphony of fells, moors, waterfalls and cataracts, at the heart of which Grinton has stood for nearly 1000 years. The inn is just a tad younger; a 13th-century building at the riverside and close to one of Yorkshire's finest old churches, known as the Cathedral of the Dales. Lanes and tracks slope down from the heights, bringing ramblers and riders to appreciate the good range of northern beers that Andrew Atkin matches with his fine foods; York Brewery's Yorkshire Terrier being a case in point. It's a happy mix of village pub and dining inn, with locals enjoying the bustling games room and beamed old bar whilst a more tranquil restaurant area caters for those after a more intimate meal experience. Resident chef John Scott is in charge of the food, his menu inspired by carefully chosen seasonal local game, meats, fish and other produce, including herbs plucked from the garden. Traditional English dishes with a modern twist offer a flavour of the fare, which is enhanced by daily-changing specials. Ham hock terrine or smoked haddock fishcakes ease you into the spirit of the inn as flavoursome starters; the main event will draw on dishes such as Bedale belly pork (garlic and sage roasted belly pork on a stew of lentils, smoked bacon, tomato, onions and white wine); cod in cider and dill batter; or wholewheat pasta with butternut squash, red onion and spinach finished with tomato, Stilton and cream. Finish with Liz's ginger pudding or a selection of Swaledale cheeses with savoury biscuits and chutney. For entertainment there is musicians' night every Thursday.