Down a narrow alley just off the Northallerton’s busy High Street, you might just stumble across one of the best boozers in town.
What to expect at Stumble Inn
On our most recent visit to Stumble Inn, this little pub down the narrow Garthway Arcade with its bright, pillar-box red front, was a cheery sight on an otherwise grey, dismal day. This conviviality continued as we were greeted warmly by the staff and the locals; and our spirits were lifted yet further as we perused the excellent beer offerings. The well-stocked bar has seating to the front that extends in an L-shape to the right, creating an intimate space where a friendly atmosphere for both newcomers and regulars is always guaranteed.
Originally opened as an offshoot of the much-loved Scarborough micropub of the same name, Stumble Inn was taken over by David Wall in December 2016. David has had a lifelong love of beer and, following the closure of his Northallerton-based microbrewery, Wall’s, earlier that year, the original owners' decision to sell Stumble Inn provided a timely opportunity for him to continue to pursue his passion. What he’s created is one of the best boozers in town that’s certainly one of our favourites; we never visit Northallerton without popping in for one (or more!).
What’s to drink at Stumble Inn?
When it comes to drinking, there’s something for everyone at Stumble Inn, the choice of offerings benefitting from the experience that David’s years of brewing brings. He told us, “My understanding of what beers appeal to different drinkers allows me to offer a range – including pales, bitters and dark beers – that covers the tastes of the majority of drinkers. Add to this the extensive range of ciders and other top-quality drinks and we have become a destination point within Northallerton.” Four rotating casks and four rotating kegs provide a great selection of real ales, craft beers and lagers, alongside up to twenty real ciders. The price of each pint is based upon its alcohol strength.
When we visited, the selection included a lager, a stout, a sour and various pale ales from some of the best UK breweries, including Durham Brewery, Kirkstall Brewery (Leeds), Brass Castle Brewery (Malton), Vault City Brewing (Edinburgh), SALT Beer Factory (Shipley) and Bosun’s Brewery (Wetherby). Cider producers included Lilley’s (Frome), Thistly Cross (Dunbar) and Masham Cider Press. Spirits, wine and soft drinks are available, as well as bottled and cans to drink in or take away. David told us that improving the drink offerings, whilst maintaining their current high standards, will be his main focus this year, in order to keep pleasing their loyal customers whilst expanding the appeal to attract more ladies and younger audiences. “Through these changes”, says David, “we hope to continue to grow in what, for many pubs, is an increasingly difficult climate.” We hope that this fantastic little micropub – a welcome gem in Northallerton – grows from strength to strength.
What’s on at Stumble Inn?
In the past, Stumble Inn has hosted beer festivals, although will focus instead this year on providing an even more diverse range all-year-round. General knowledge quizzes are held monthly. Follow them on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest events.
Where can I find Stumble Inn?
Stumble Inn is in Northallerton, a popular town of Northallerton in the Vale of Mowbray, midway between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales National Parks. It’s a bustling little spot with many independent shops, cafes and bars; and a twice-weekly market, held every Wednesday and Saturday for a cool 700 years.
To drive, Northallerton is a quarter of an hour from Thirsk, just over half an hour from Middlesbrough and 45 minutes from York. There is meter parking along the busy High Street with a 2-hour maximum stay, but we recommend Applegarth Long Stay and Short Stay Car Parks which are free for the first 2 hours and are just a short walk from the town centre. Northallerton is easily accessible by train and is serviced by regular buses from nearby villages, towns and cities including Ripon, Richmond and Darlington. You’ll find Stumble Inn down Garthway Arcade, a narrow alley just off the High Street.
Stumble Inn, Northallerton: Summary
- Wet pub
- Great choice of beers and ales
- Huge range of ciders
- Bottles and cans available
- Dog-friendly
- Warm and friendly atmosphere
- Northallerton town centre
- Good transport links
- Parking nearby
- Monthly quiz
Where can I find out more information?
To find out the latest opening times updates, follow Stumble Inn’s Facebook page.
Have you visited Stumble Inn in Northallerton? Tell us what you thought! You can find more Northallerton and North Yorkshire pub reviews on our blog.
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