The Fairfax Arms

The accommodation impresses with its cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and attentive staff. Guests appreciate the convenient location near Helmsley and the variety and quality of the breakfast served in the conservatory.

Really lovely pub. Room was very comfortable but there was an aircon unit or something like that right outside the window which was noisy all night. We were at the front. I think it was to do with the beer cellar. Curtains also really thin so let all the light in. The food was very nice and there were some different things on the menu than your average pub. For example I had fish tacos. The bar was lively in a Thursday night with locals and they were friendly lads but tbh if I was the landlady I would have asked them to mind their effing and jeffing. I think they have to decide if it’s a local or a gastro pub. I can curse with the best but I wouldn’t be shouting about it at the bar. Breakfast was really good and served in the conservatory area. Full English was lovely.

This establishment is situated in a pretty N Yorks village and as we were approaching we were blown away by the facade of the building lit up at night. We received a very warm welcome by Laura who was very attentive and helpful. We had a standard double as this was the only one available but we were very impressed by the decor and comfort of the bed and pillows. We overlooked the front of the property and when we drew back the curtains next morning we had a lovely view of the stream. Dinner was excellent and we were given a table in a cosy little room just off the bar area. I am a pescatarian and I was very pleased with amount of choice available to me. Our starters were beautifully presented, my husband had the devilled pigeon breast and I had the burrata with pear. Our mains were excellent too and eventually we opted for venison haunch and lentil moussaka accompanied by sides of chunky chips and sweet potato fries. Service was unhurried and all the staff were very friendly, again Laura stood out. I have never stayed in such a quiet pub overnight. You could have heard a pin drop which is quite unusual as it is in the centre of the village. Breakfast again was very very good. The usual fruit yoghurts etc plus some absolutely enormous croissants and Danish pastries etc. We both opted for cooked breakfasts and again we couldn’t fault the food. All in all it is one of the best stays we have ever had in a pub with rooms and amazing value for money. This really is a beautiful country pub with great staff and excellent food. We are so glad we have discovered it and can’t wait to go back. The staff are so friendly and make the stay a memorable one.