Beck Hole
North Yorkshire
YO22 5LE
01947 896245
About a mile down the hill from the village of Goathland, the Birch Hall is the focal point of the tiny hamlet of Beck Hole. It’s clearly in two parts, one compact and whitewashed dating from the 18th century, and the other a 19th century extension, tall and with a frontage of local sandstone.
Inside, the pub is a timewarp, an amazing survivor with simple fittings and flagged floors. There are two tiny bars served by hatches, and one of them still includes the village sweetshop. It has been in the same ownership for 40 years, and the previous owner, Mrs Schofield, had lived there for 53 years. On passing the pub to its new owners she had insisted that nothing be changed.
The pub is no stranger to the Good Beer Guide and there is a choice of three real ales, including Beckwatter, specially brewed for the pub by a local brewery. Sandwiches made with bread from Bothams of Whitby, and pork pies made by Radfords butcher in Sleights are the perfect match to your pint of Beckwatter.
In this fast-changing world (and not often for the better) it is heart-warming to visit Beckhole and the Birch Hall Inn. I first visited there over 65 years ago and love the fact that it still looks and feels as it did when I was a young boy.
I always look forward to sitting outside in the sunshine enjoying a drink and the peace and serenity of this wonderful place- it is a very beautiful and precious spot, may it never change. Chris.
Thanks Chris, It is indeed a wonderful place and is definitely up there with the very best pubs in the UK.