Visiting Castleton on a bank holiday can be a mixed bag when it comes to dining out. With the village bustling with tourists and locals alike, securing a table at any of the popular restaurants can be quite a challenge. This was precisely our predicament as we roamed from one eatery to another, only to find that most were fully booked or, worse, had run out of food. Just as we were about to resign ourselves to a snack from a nearby shop, we decided to try our luck at Ye Olde Nags Head Hotel, and what a fortuitous decision that turned out to be.
As we approached Ye Olde Nags Head, the charming exterior immediately caught our eye. Nestled in the heart of Castleton, this establishment exudes a timeless appeal. Stepping inside, we were welcomed into a warm, rustic setting that felt like a step back in time. The pub’s olde-worldly charm was complemented by a cosy atmosphere, complete with wooden beams, stone walls, and an inviting fireplace that added to the overall sense of comfort.
Despite the busy holiday, the staff at Ye Olde Nags Head were incredibly accommodating. They managed to find us a table without any fuss, a gesture that was deeply appreciated after our earlier disappointments. We were shown to a quaint corner of the pub where we could settle in and relax. The ambience was lively but not overwhelming, with the gentle hum of conversation and the occasional clink of glasses creating a pleasant backdrop to our evening.
With drinks in hand, we took our time perusing the menu. The selection was varied, offering a good mix of traditional pub fare and more contemporary dishes. My dining companion and I decided to stick to what we knew best. I opted for the local dry-aged 10oz sirloin steak, a staple that rarely disappoints, while my partner was enticed by the lamb shank featured on the specials board.
When our meals arrived, we were not disappointed. My sirloin steak was served with peas, mushrooms, chips, and onion rings. Cooked medium-rare, as I had requested, the steak was tender, juicy, and full of flavour. Each bite was a reminder of why this dish remains a favourite of mine. The accompaniments were equally impressive, with the chips being perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and the onion rings offering a delightful crunch.
Across the table, my dining companion was equally pleased with their choice. The lamb shank was presented on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, surrounded by a generous portion of vegetables and lashings of rich, hearty gravy. The meat was cooked to perfection, tender and falling off the bone with ease. The combination of flavours and textures made for a truly satisfying dish that was both comforting and indulgent.
As we enjoyed our meals, the only downside to our evening began to make itself known. A group seated at the table next to us was rather loud and, at times, quite obnoxious. While their behaviour was certainly a dampener on the otherwise pleasant atmosphere, it is hard to hold the restaurant responsible for the actions of a few inconsiderate patrons. The staff, to their credit, remained professional and attentive throughout our meal, ensuring that our dining experience was as enjoyable as possible despite the minor disturbance.
As the evening drew to a close, we reflected on our visit to Ye Olde Nags Head Hotel with great satisfaction. The food was excellent, the service impeccable, and the ambience perfectly suited for a relaxing meal after a long day of exploring Castleton. The experience left such a positive impression on us that we have already made plans to return, hoping to enjoy another delightful meal, perhaps on a less crowded occasion.
In summary, Ye Olde Nags Head Hotel offers a wonderful dining experience that combines traditional charm with high-quality cuisine. Despite the challenges posed by a busy bank holiday, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us, and the food did not disappoint. For anyone visiting Castleton, a meal at Ye Olde Nags Head comes highly recommended. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’re sure to leave with a full stomach and a smile on your face.
To get in touch with Ye Olde Nags Head Hotel, ring 01433 620 248 or visit https://www.yeoldenagshead.co.uk. Ye Olde Nags Head Hotel is located at 1 Cross Street, Castleton, S33 8WH.