The Fauconberg

If we had to go for one word to describe the Fauconberg, we’d say ‘genteel’ would about cover it and that’s no bad thing. It’s certainly in-keeping with Coxwold, which is a handsome, well-to-do village at the western edge of the North York Moors, once the home of literary great Laurence Sterne (of Tristram Shandy fame) whose family home lies just up the road. The Fauconberg fits right in – beautifully picturesque, with tables outside on the cobbles, overlooking period cottages, and an interior that looks every inch the traditional village inn. You should probably book if you want to eat – Sunday lunch especially – while a pint and a walk is a delight at any time. Ruined Byland Abbey is only a mile or so away (one of Sterne’s favourite walks), or head up to the dramatically sited White Horse of Kilburn on top of the Sutton Bank escarpment for some glorious panoramas. The rooms are all different – updated country farmhouse in style, one with wood-panelling and a four-poster – while an absolute charmer of a summer-only, cabin-like garden room set in the grounds makes the most of the local views.