Pubs, food and drink in and around Garsdale
There is no pub in Garsdale itself, though there used to be. Garsdale Hall, near the centre of the dale close to St John's Church, was formerly a coaching inn called the George and Dragon, recorded as such in the 1851 census. At the top of the dale, Junction Cottage at Garsdale Head was once the Junction Inn. Both are now in private use. The dale's remoteness from pubs is part of its character, but there are good options within a short drive.
The Moorcock sits right at the head of the dale, at the junction of the A684 and B6259, just into Richmondshire. It serves food and has accommodation. Pub quiz nights have been a regular fixture on Tuesday evenings, and it is the closest thing Garsdale has to a local. Tel: 01969 667 488.
A popular choice about fifteen minutes towards Hawes. The Green Dragon also has regular events and a music night on Wednesdays. Hardraw Force, one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in England, is accessed through the pub. There is a small entrance fee for the waterfall walk but it is well worth it, particularly after rain. Tel: 01969 667 392.
The Cross Keys at Cautley is a temperance inn (no alcohol), but the food is good and the setting at the foot of Cautley Spout is beautiful.
The Sportsman at Cowgill in Dentdale is accessible over the Coal Road past Garsdale Station.
Sedbergh and Hawes both offer a wider range of pubs, restaurants and cafes. See our Things To Do page for more recommendations.
The Wensleydale Creamery at Hawes makes a cheese variety called "Garsdale" flavoured with garlic and chives, using milk that once came from Garsdale, Dent and Cautley farms via the former Farfield dairy near Sedbergh. The creamery shop and cheese experience are well worth a visit.
Wild garlic grows in the dale and is locally known as "ramps." In spring, it can be found along the riverbanks and in the woodland, and the smell is unmistakable.
In autumn, the harvest festivals at each of the dale's chapels often include a supper and sale of produce, which is a lovely community occasion if your visit coincides.