The Old Deanery delivers an unforgettable immersive dining experience in Ripon

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It’s a crisp winter Saturday evening as my husband and I wander through Ripon city centre, making our way to The Old Deanery. Along the way, we’re intrigued to spot crowds dressed in full 80s attire. We later discover that an 80s Anthems by Candlelight event is taking place that same night at Ripon Cathedral, just opposite the restaurant with rooms. We’re both taken aback – and rather impressed – by how the Cathedral has diversified with its range of events.

Upon arrival, the 17th-century Jacobean property strikes a charming balance between country house grandeur and city centre convenience, while brimming with quirky character. The front door, for example, has a noticeable low door handle, almost setting the tone of the evening that The Old Deanery might be unlike any other dining experience with its little unexpected touches. And it certainly lives up to that promise.

We’re warmly welcomed into the spacious sitting and bar area, which feels like a homely lounge with its sumptuous sofas and roaring open fire. Rebecca Layton, one of the owners, greets us personally. Since buying The Old Deanery with her husband Chris in 2021, they have set about lovingly restoring it, and it’s clear they’re both very hands-on, involved in the day-to-day running of the historic mansion.

After a welcome drink, we’re led into the chef’s lounge. The Old Deanery is known for its immersive dining experience, guiding guests through three distinct rooms so that they can experience the whole of the downstairs of the property, and here we begin with what the tasting menu calls its ‘snacks’. 

We’re invited up to the counter, where head chef Adam Jackson personally presents his Rockstar Croustade – it’s a chance to meet the man behind the intricate menu while enjoying the first bite of the evening. Made with Rockstar cheese, the canapé is indulgent yet familiar, almost like a very sophisticated take on cheese on toast.

Next up is the Smoked Potato and Caviar canapé. It’s a delicate smoked potato nestled beneath a layer of seaweed, lightly dusted with malted vinegar powder, finished with a swirl of sour cream, a scattering of shallots and chives, and crowned with sustainable caviar. Each bite is a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, tangy, and briny notes – a subtle yet unforgettable introduction to the tasting menu.

We’re then shown into the elegant, formal dining room, which somehow manages to feel light and modern while still celebrating its grand period features. A striking piece of contemporary art adorns a wall, adding a fresh, unexpected touch. The tables are spaced generously apart, and every single one is occupied – I even caught a snippet of conversation from a couple who’ve travelled all the way from Edinburgh, just for the evening.

On the table sits a small leaflet, featuring a photo of Adam’s son out foraging. It explains the seasonal foraging and preserving that Adam and his team carry out at The Old Deanery, highlighting their dedication to using ingredients at their freshest, as well as showcasing that everyone gets involved at The Old Deanery. Indeed, from the moment we arrive, it has a family feel with the staff passionate and the family business clearly inspiring those who work there.

Next on the Snacks menu is the Autumn Snacks, followed by Bread and Broth, both celebrating the season’s freshest ingredients. The latter has an umami taste and was oh-so-comforting. The savoury courses follow: Sea Trout with Cucumber, Scallop with Sweetcorn and Bacon, and Valley Farm Estate Venison. While each dish is a delight, for me the venison stood out – rich, tender, peppery and paired beautifully with a Malbec, it felt like the ultimate autumn to winter comfort.

For the sweet courses, we’re treated to Beetroot, Apple and Shiso, followed by Chocolate with Pear and Hazelnut, then Baron Bigod with Deanery Elderflower Honey, and finally a selection of petits fours to round off the evening.

My verdict? 

The Old Deanery is an immersive journey through taste, season, and style – one worth savouring slowly, and preferably with a night spent under its historic roof too. After all, I hear that breakfast the next day is something special too...

The Old Deanery Tasting Menu is served Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

The nine course Tasting Menu is £95 per person – until 3rd January, 2026. 

Please note that from January 22, 2026 through to March 28, 2026, the menu will be reduced to a five- or six-course menu and the price will be £75 per person.

To book a table visit this link.

The Old Deanery, Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QS, 01765 600 003, visit the website.