A Review Of The Racehorses Hotel, Kettlewell, Yorkshire

The
Racehorses is an independently run 18th century country inn set in
the heart of Kettlewell, with thirteen en-suite bedrooms which enjoy
far-reaching views of surrounding hills and The River Wharfe. There are two bar
rooms and dining areas as well as two large dining rooms which can cater for
small or medium functions.

It
has been owned and run by Kevin Sands for 10 years, who along with chefs Trevor
and Sarah, extends a very warm welcome to guests and visitors, many of whom are
walkers enjoying the delightful Dales village. 

My friend Barbara and I ate on a Friday lunchtime in mid-September. We were amazed at the choice available, with a lunch menu, a dinner menu, a separate fish menu and a specials blackboard, all of which had numerous options.

To
start with Barbara chose stuffed flat mushroom which was generously filled with
Mediterranean vegetables, topped with Wensleydale and cranberry cheese and drizzled
with a Balsamic glaze, £5.25.

I
opted for deep-fried brie wedges, served on a beautiful salad and served with
an orange, cranberry and port dressing, £5.50. Both were delicious, fresh and
beautifully presented.

We
both enjoy fish so chose off the dedicated fish menu.  I was drawn immediately to the 7oz tuna steak Wellington
which was stuffed with caramelized onions and served with garlic sautéed new
potatoes with a summer strawberry and rocket salad and a white wine Yorkshire
blue-cheese sauce, £14.95 This was a real showstopper. The tuna was served pink
in the middle- just how I prefer it. It was of generous size, but the pastry
was light and delicate. The sauce was the perfect accompaniment and I cannot
praise this dish enough. 

Barbara requested a small portion of fish pie, which was duly delivered in a ramekin and served with carrots and broccoli.

Every
option on the dessert menu appealed to both of us and it took much deliberating
to finally decide. Barbara chose Crème Brulee which was served with Amaretti
biscuits £5.50 and I couldn’t resist Baileys cheesecake which was served with
either pouring cream or ice-cream.  Both
desserts were again, beautifully presented and garnished with strawberries and
vibrant edible flowers. A feast for the eyes as well as the taste-buds. 

We
thoroughly enjoyed both the food and the atmosphere at The Racehorses and if
you are in Kettlewell, you really must go to experience the delightful food and
friendly ambience. It is a true delight.

Love Lizzy x

The
Racehorses Hotel

Kettlewell

North
Yorkshire

BD23
5QZ

01756
760233

www.racehorseshotel.co.uk

Barbara and I were guests of The Racehorses and the review was undertaken as part of my role for Aspire Magazine. Huge thanks to Kevin for his warm welcome and excellent menu.

elizabeth