Oswalds with Rooms Sowerby, Near Thirsk

This hotel was recommended and booked for us by Yorkshire 4X4, where I was booked in to do a quad bike trek, which I have reviewed elsewhere on this website. They told me that the restaurant was pretty good.

We were booked in for 2 nights, but would so easily stay for longer! They state in there 'welcome book' that they are not a hotel per se, but they do a fantastic job of being just like one!

No reception - we checked in at the bar. One of the staff then showed us to our room (and I cannot remember the last time that happened - maybe the Alvia in Brighton)

The bed was huge and really comfortable and the room was very clean and tidy. Plenty of wardrobe space and the bathroom was fresh, with plenty of clean towels and a fan that worked!

The people who run Oswalds make sure that every detail is covered and they are very friendly people. They make you feel right at home and this is made easy by having only 16 rooms, each one individually designed.

We ate in the restaurant both evenings and the whole experience was handled properly, without being fussy, but we were truly spoiled:

We had a drink in the bar, where we perused the menu and our orders were taken. We then sat and relaxed in the bar until our starters were ready, when we were shown through to our table. The food was top class. Locally-sourced food that is freshly cooked. Superb! I even attempted three courses on the 1st night, it was that good!

All the staff were friendly and polite and didn't keep interrupting the meal.

A good night's sleep in a very comfortable bed followed and then we went off to explore Northallerton, which is a small market town.

The second night was much the same, with another relaxed and wonderful meal, although I could manage only 2 courses!

Oh and the breakfasts were just as unhurried, with good quality bacon and sausages, not like many other hotels who serve up cheaper substitutes.

Check out efficient and friendly, too.

Again, I would not only recommend you stay here, but I would love to go back.

Thanks all the staff for a great weekend.