When I recieved the email inviting me to review the Ox Pasture Hall Hotel near Scarborough with a complimentary night’s stay for two people with evening meal and breakfast, I got very excited. When I visited the country-style hotel’s website and saw the photos of the beautiful building, I got even more giddy. Dave and I haven’t really had any alone time together for over 5 months and a romantic night away in such an idyllic hotel would be such a treat.
The Ox Pasture Hall Hotel is located just minutes from the seaside town of Scarborough yet far out enough from the built up area for it to feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere. Those who enjoy the classic makings of a seaside resort will not be disappointed with the abundance of arcades, fish and chip shops, ice cream parlours and good old bucket and spade shops that the beachfront of Scarborough has to offer. The resort benefits from two beaches- the South Bay which is the busier stretch of sand close the main amusements and the North Bay which is traditionally the quieter beach. Just outside the town is the Sea Life Centre, with over 50 different displays of marine life and a wild seal hospital.
Before checking into the hotel, we had spent the day hiking in the surrounding Yorkshire Moor National Park and were exhausted. On arrival, the very welcoming manager, Alan, lead us to our room and we beamed with happiness at how big and romantic it was. The bed was huge, the bathroom was huge and it even had a separate living area with a comfy sofa and a large TV. In fact, there was even a TV in the bedroom. When Dave and I are away we choose not to watch TV and, instead, spend time completely relaxing with each other. It was nice to know we had the option to watch telly though.
We had made the most of the daylight for walking so had arrived after dusk so decided to wait until the following morning to explore the ground of the hotel. It was early evening and we had booked our table for 8.30pm so made the most of our huge room. We soaked in a hot bath then wrapped ourselves in the soft dressing gowns that were provided. After a relaxing snooze we dressed for the evening and headed to the bar for a drink.
After being seated in the lounge area of the bar we were brought a bottle of Porsecco and the restaurant menu. It was nice just to sit in each other’s company, sipping our drinks and taking in the cosy atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the hotel and one sat quietly by its owner by the sofa opposite. Our meal orders were taken, and when the time came, we were guided to our table situated by French windows that looked out over the lit up front garden.
The waiter brought us each an amuse bouche- a tiny cup of soup with freshly baked bread (we thought he called them ‘Mighty Boosh’. Proves we are not used to such luxury!) and introduced himself. The starter-before-the-starter was demolished quickly. It was delicious.
Next, our starters arrived which were presented beautifully. I chose seared scallops and Dave had herring parcels. When eating out I aim to choose food that I wouldn’t normally have at home and the scallops were the perfect choice. They were cooked to perfection- slightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
We both chose the duck for main which was served pink. As a person who loves her vegetables I was slightly disappointed that some didn’t come with the meal but, after all, the menu was gourmet-style. To be fair, I couldn’t have fit any more food in!
For desert I chose sticky toffee pudding served with ice cream and a jug of thick, creamy toffee sauce. Dave went for the bitter chocolate torte. Sorry but we forgot to take photos as we were so indulged in our deserts!
With bellies full to the brim we headed back to our room and climbed into the generous bed, promptly falling asleep beneath the cosy duvet.
After enjoying the pressure of the hot shower the next morning, we headed back to the restaurant for breakfast. The staff welcomed us cheerily and seated us by the back window, overlooking the courtyard. Several dogs were stretching their legs while their owners watched on from the doors of their rooms.
The breakfast spread had everything I could ask for- yogurt, fruit, cereals, juices and a wide selection of teas.
Full Yorkshire Breakfast was listed on menu. Two of them please!
The bacon was of high quality and the eggs had bright yolks- perfect.
With full bellies once more we took time to get some fresh air and explore the 17 acres of land surrounding the buildings. The beautifully kept grounds are idyllic for a country-style wedding or function and there’s a purpose-built reception building overlooking the grounds and the moor beyond.
By now it was around 10am and we wanted to go fossil hunting at Runswick Bay before the tide came in. So we made our way, slightly grudgingly, to reception to check out. The attentive manager ensured we had enjoyed our visit and offered to carry our luggage. We would have loved to stay longer at the Ox Pasture Hall Hotel, but all good things must come to an end.
