The Devonshire Fell At Burnsall

It must be over 20 years since I last visited Burnsall. Thankfully the Dales village had not changed much, what I had never visited before though was The Devonshire Fell hotel which sits proudly overlooking Burnsall and the River Wharfe.

It would be hard to choose a more majestic position with the rolling hills, limestone walls and the river providing a painters dream.

The welcome we received matched the view: our suitcases were taken from the car into the hotel by the charming David who appeared to be on loan from the Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa at nearby Bolton Abbey. His training showed and was just as good as any service I have experienced in some of the top hotels in London.

The rooms are all named after nearby villages such as Linton, though we stayed in the spacious Threshfield Room. With 2 bathrooms and 2 sitting rooms 4 people could have been accommodated easily. It was pleasing to see that there was plenty of hanging space in the wardrobe. The photos on the walls were art pictures done by Bradford's David Hockney - which I thought was a nice Yorkshire touch.

Although the room was spotlessly clean with quality bedding I was surprised not to find a fridge in the room. The water left by the bedside was luke warm, though I dare say if you asked at the bar they would bring some fresh cool water to your room.

The television had an array of channels and there was a DVD player too, along with a selection of books, but with beautiful walking options on your doorstep I can see these distractions remaining unopened or the TV switched off.

Meals are taken in the light and airy conservatory restaurant, though I understand that a refurbishment is imminent. The views from the restaurant overlook the river and fells.

A two course menu starts at £29.50 or the three course menu is £38.00. My starter of Fig Tart with goats cheese, honey and balsamic was exquisite whilst my partner's Potted Rabbit served with carrot and dandelion salad and toasted sourdough was fresh, meaty and tasty.

The main of Tagliatelle served with spinach, broadbeans, peas, asparagus and basil pesto was a delight. Good to be able to taste everything.

I was impressed with the fine selection of cheeses which included a fluffy and light Cote Hill Blue from Market Rasen, a very buttery Rollright from Chipping Norton and a very mature Dales End Cheddar which is aged for 18 months.

The Egg Custard Tart my partner chose and my Chocolate Fondant ended a very satisfying meal which came with knowledgeable service.

Breakfast is served in the Conservatory Restaurant too with a cooked to order English breakfast or a buffet style continental breakfast being offered, though I would suggest that maybe the breakfast staff wear a uniform that would compliment the dining experience and give an additional prestige as the evening staff do.

Bolton Abbey is 5 miles away and hotel guests are offered a free parking pass for the many car parks there.

The Devonshire Fell is an intimate and friendly place to stay, although there are plans to enlarge the hotel, which I hope will not spoil its charming homely character. I trust it will not be 20 years before I visit Burnsall again!

The Devonshire Fell, Burnsall, Skipton BD23 6BT
Telephone 01756 729000
www.devonshirefell.co.uk