This North Yorkshire pub prides itself on serving proper pints, pies and puds.
What to expect at The Black Swan
The little market town of Leyburn, Wensleydale, has a lot to offer. If you want to experience beautiful countryside, the Dales are on the doorstep and the Leyburn Shawl boasts the best views around. If you’re wanting to buy something special, Tennants auction house is legendary, and the traditional Friday market is not to be missed. And, if you’re after a proper Yorkshire pub, then look no further than The Black Swan Hotel.
Situated just off the market square, the early 19th-century inn is an attractive sight, with bay windows painted in sage and an original wrought iron lamp above the door. The space at the front of the pub is designed for diners, whilst the bar area towards the back, or the outside seating to the front and the rear, are perfect if you’re just after a drink. There’s a friendly atmosphere and the decor is cosy and traditional. Homemade food is served daily and, if you’d like a holiday in the Dales, The Black Swan’s bed and breakfast package is exceptional value.
What’s to drink at The Black Swan?
The Black Swan has a good selection of rotating ales, alongside premium lagers and beers. When we visited, Wainwright Gold (Marston’s Brewery, Burton-on-Trent), Moorhouse’s Brewery’s (Burnley) Pride of Pendle, Falconer by Wensleydale Brewery (Leyburn) and Timothy Taylor’s (Keighley) Hopical Storm were on offer, as well as a Rhubarb Cider from Lilley’s (Frome). Wine, spirits, soft drinks and hot drinks are also available.
What’s to eat at The Black Swan?
The Black Swan proudly serves up hearty, traditional, great-quality pub food, made with locally-sourced ingredients. As stated on their website, they are, ‘dedicated to keeping the good old-fashioned pub pies and puds alive’, having earned a cult following for their handmade 1lb steak and kidney pudding and their steak and ale pie, complete with homemade shortcrust pastry on the top and bottom because, as they say, ‘it’s not a pie without a bottom!’ The Black Swan’s fish and chips are another customer favourite, the crispy, battered haddock being delicious, sustainably caught and absolutely whopping! Steaks, burgers and scampi are among the other pub classics, along with daily specials and vegetarian and vegan options. There’s a takeaway menu available on Friday and Saturday nights, and, of course, traditional roasts on Sundays. Finally, don’t miss out on the homemade desserts, which change on a daily basis – expect generous portions of irresistibly sweet pies and puddings!
What’s on at The Black Swan?
The Black Swan hosts occasional quizzes, plus live music from local artists every couple of months. Genres range from rock and roll to ‘90s rock to acoustic guitar sessions. The pub also broadcasts all of the major live sports events. Follow The Black Swan on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with what’s going on.
Where can I find The Black Swan?
The Black Swan Hotel is in the lovely market town of Leyburn, Wensleydale, just east of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's around 50 minutes to drive from Middlesbrough, half an hour from Ripon and 20 minutes from Richmond. You might be able to get a parking space on the Market Place, some close to The Black Swan, but, if not, Leyburn Long Stay Carpark is just behind the square. The Wensleydale Railway, an authentic Heritage Railway running from Scrunton to Redmire, has Leyburn on its route.
The Black Swan Hotel, Leyburn: Summary
- Traditional Yorkshire pub
- Homemade, hearty pub food
- Takeaway food available on Friday and Saturday nights
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Great beers and ales
- Dog-friendly
- Beer garden
- Leyburn town centre
- Good transport links
- Parking nearby
- Rooms available
- Televised sport
- Live music
Where can I find out more information, order takeaway or make a reservation?
Follow The Black Swan on Facebook, Instagram and their website to find the latest opening times and announcements. You can reserve a room or a table via telephone or on their website.
What's your favourite North Yorkshire pub? Let us know and follow our blog for more reviews!
The Black Swan is NOT in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide