Set beside England’s tallest maypole and a mirror-still duck pond, the Alice Hawthorn Inn in Nun Monkton distills village charm into polished gastronomy. This thoughtfully modernised inn marries countryside serenity with fine dining finesse, positioning the Alice Hawthorn Inn + Nun Monkton as a destination for discerning travelers. Expect classical British technique elevated with garden-led produce, a welcoming service cadence, and the quiet luxury of a country retreat that understands restraint as a virtue.

The Story & Heritage
Rooted in a centuries-old coaching inn, the Alice Hawthorn embodies Yorkshire hospitality refreshed for today. Following a sensitive revitalisation, the team champions a produce-first philosophy that honors heritage while embracing seasonality and craft. In the kitchen, classical training guides a menu that respects provenance—field, farm, and kitchen garden—while maintaining a modern lightness. Accolades from the Michelin Guide speak to its consistency and care, and the inn’s smart bedrooms make it a true destination for leisurely, food-led escapes. The result is a dining pub evolved: elegant, grounded, and unmistakably of its place.

The Cuisine & Menu
The cuisine leans refined British with French-inflected technique, celebrating regional producers and house-grown ingredients. Menus shift with the seasons: à la carte at its core, with prix fixe options on select days. Expect signatures like Yorkshire Game Terrine with pickled pear and toasted brioche; Day-Boat Hake with brown butter, capers, and sea herbs; and Estate Garden Beetroot with whipped goat’s curd and hazelnut praline. Sunday roasts are rendered with finesse. Dietary accommodations are thoughtfully handled with advance notice, and the price positioning sits comfortably in fine dining territory while remaining warmly inclusive.

Experience & Atmosphere
Inside, timber beams, stone floors, and contemporary detailing create a room that feels both storied and sleek. Sunlight spills over the green; in cooler months, fires glow. Service is unhurried, intuitive, and genuinely hospitable—polished without pretension. The wine program prioritizes food-friendly bottles, with a compact, curated cellar and a sommelier-led selection highlighting Burgundy, Rhône, and boutique English sparklers. A snug bar pours properly kept ales and seasonal cocktails; private dining and overnight stays extend the experience. Smart-casual dress is the norm, and reservations—especially weekends—are recommended two to three weeks in advance.

Closing & Call-to-Action
For those seeking Nun Monkton fine dining that respects tradition while refining it, book the Alice Hawthorn Inn. Reserve ahead for coveted weekend tables, a tranquil weekday lunch, or a romantic overnight. Ask for sommelier pairings and secure a table by the window overlooking the village green—an idyllic frame for one of the best restaurants in Nun Monkton.