The Forresters Arms

My wife and I stopped here for a drink after a hike in the North York Moors. As soon as we walked in we could see it was yet another 'pub' that had completely given itself over to dining. Don't get me wrong, I know there is much more money in people eating than there is for somebody popping in for a drink but I think it is sad when somewhere so lovely completely sacrifices the 'passing trade' and probably the locals to attract those wanting to book somewhere to eat. When we arrived, almost every table in the place was laid out for dining, with the exception of 2 tables-for-two in the main bar and a couple of tables in the check-in area for the accommodation. This meant that a maximum of 2 couples could sit in a room full of people eating, or a few more in what is basically the hotel reception area. I had to ask if I could just order a drink at the bar to which I was told "you can, but there's no one serving at the moment". We then had to wait until one of the waitresses was asked if she "could just serve these two if she had a minute". Watching the staff, absolutely everything was geared towards the diners. There was never anyone positioned behind the bar for anyone coming in for a drink and another family that came in again had to ask "where do we sit if we're just having a drink"? they ended up in the reception area surrounded by suitcases. There didn't seem to be any friendly conversation between the staff and customers, it was as though it was just purely 'business'. We may have just visited at a particularly busy time but it doesn't alter the fact that this is essentially a restaurant, not a pub in the traditional sense, so don't just pop in for a drink if your passing as you will be disappointed.

A nice pub with rooms. Room was adequate...well appointed but bathroom could have been cleaner! Shower was good! The bed was very comfy. Sadly it was a bit cold in the room and towel rail didn't come on. Overnight towels didn't dry, so were very damp in the morning. Evening meal was delicious and service very good. A little pricey at the bar. Cozy dining area. Breakfast was ok. Although, our order was lost and consequently the waitress didn't know what we'd ordered and wasn't expecting us! I had the scrambled egg with salmon...eggs were good, salmon was too thick and toast barely toasted. Toast wasn't very palatable and the marmalade was horrible. Service was a bit scattered during Breakfast.

We booked for Sunday lunch and had a fantastic time. The service was warm and friendly, the food was excellent i especially liked the vegetables as they are often overlooked in a roast, these were really good . I am looking forward to our next visit. We were quite suprised how much it cost. Great value for money

We are here twice during our break away. The food was beautiful and reasonably priced, the staff were friendly and attentive and the restaurant setting itself was immaculate and beautifully decorated. Would recommend and we will be returning in the future.Service: 5/5

This a gem - my wife said “ This is Lovely “ and I know when she says this it’s a sign of excellence! Superb staff - in particular we had quite a lot of contact with Duncan ; Anita ; Jasmin & Gemma - outstanding customer service . Nothing is to much trouble for this team . Loved our room No 3 with a great sunset view. The food was excellent- thanks Chef - you are clearly talented! So overall - brilliant. Would I recommend- absolutely!

We really enjoyed our stay . We couldn't fault anything. Service was great from check in to check out. Food in the restaurant was of the highest quality and a good price. The room where very reasonable priced and very luxurious,we had a great nights sleep.Breakfast was of the highest quality as expected after our evening meal. Thanks team at the Foresters Arms nice to find a little treasure. We will return at some point.

Stayed for one night in December 2022. This place is so lovely. The staff are all very welcoming, the food is very very good and our room was perfect. Definitely be back, would love to experience it all again in a different season. Can’t recommend enough.Rooms: 5/5

A beautiful pub meal. The best for many years. Helpful and friendly staff right from making the booking for lunch. Understanding about seating requirements for family members. Service and tableware fantastic. Everyone around us seemed to also thoroughly enjoy their meals. Shame the mouseman furniture has gone from the bar but the new seating comfortable and better suited. Fabulous. Thank you all.

Our group had an amazing meal here to celebrate another year of walking. We can thoroughly recommend everything we ate. I especially enjoyed my vegetable Filo tart, Fish Chowder and the Pear Tartine. Others loved the venison, turkey and Christmas pudding. Food & drinks: Excellent in choice and in execution.

Called in for a Sunday lunch after an energetic walk up Sutton Bank. Really good quality food in a casual and friendly atmosphere. Great beer also. Just what was needed after an autumn walkService: 4/5

Directions to The Forresters Arms with public transportation

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