Four traditional pubs to visit in the Harrogate district

A new generation of drinkers are being drawn to craft beer and cocktail bars, sparking a decline in traditional pubs.

And while many of us love a good Negroni or an IPA, you can’t beat a good old fashioned British boozer.

Fortunately we are still blessed’ with some excellent ones in the Harrogate district.

We asked our readers for their favourites. Here are four of them:

Hales Bar, Harrogate

Reputedly, the oldest pub in Harrogate has a history going back to the earliest days of the town’s emergence as a leading spa resort.

Originating as one of the first inns for spa visitors after sulphur wells were first established in the mid-18th century, sulphur springs still flow beneath the cellar and the distinctive odours occasionally percolate up to the bar area.

The premises were rebuilt circa 1827 and known as The Promenade Inn.  At this time it was said to be a most successful coaching inn. It was enlarged in 1856 and known as Hodgson’s until 1882, when William Hales became the landlord.

The interior decor is reflective of the pub’s long history, with mirrors and fittings from the Victorian era, including traditional gas lighting and cigar lighters.

Stray Ferret reader Richard Dunston Brady said:

“Hales, is the best traditional pub for charm, atmosphere, friendly staff and a well pulled pint.”

Hales Bar, 1-3 Crescent Road, Harrogate, HG1 2RS

Mother Shipton Inn, Knaresborough

The Mother Shipton Inn has stood beside the Low Bridge of Knaresborough for centuries.
Nestled amongst ancient trees and the River Nidd, this sixteenth century coaching Inn has survived with its full character intact, boasting warm fires, quirky rooms and eclectic furniture. The hanging baskets on the pub’s exterior are also impressive.
Take in the surroundings of this olde worlde gem with a pint of real ale or locally-sourced home-cooked food.
Visitors to the pub praise the friendly staff and riverside setting.
Mother Shipton’s Inn, Low Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8HZ

One-Eyed Rat, Ripon

The One-Eyed Rat is a traditional pub, famous for its old fashioned charm.

It can be found on Allhallowgate, one of the oldest parts of Ripon.

A real ale destination over many decades, the One Eyed Rat was refurbished and re-opened under new management in the summer of 2020.

A Grade II listed building set within a terrace of 200-year-old houses, its narrow frontage leads to a warm and welcoming hostelry.

The pub has a long, narrow interior with traditional seating and an open fire, and there is a large garden at the rear, including a covered area.

You can also enjoy a traditional pie and a pint.

Ship Inn at Aldborough

The historic building dates back to 1340 and goes back several centuries as an inn.

It was almost certainly known as the Ship in the 17th century, as there is a token copper coin in existence, dated 1671, which shows a ship in full sale with the inscription “John Briggs in Aldborough his half penny”.

Brian Rey and Elaine Howden, the owners of The Ship Inn, have been restoring the pub since January following a fire. They have served many high-profile guests, including Prince William and Harry.

The traditional country pub in the Roman town of Aldborough is well-known for Brian’s Yorkshire puddings and ‘real gravy’.

 Low Rd, Aldborough, YO51 9ER