Prayers answered

BELIEVE THE HYPE: The reports were right, says Elaine Lemm, the Sawley Arms is a real gem. Pictures by Gary Longbottom.

roast potatoes were just about to pass their best.

The football-sized Yorkshire puddings were the only disappointment; size is not always the best way to judge a pud. They were quite dry and without any distinct flavour to them. On this, husband said mine are better than the Sawley’s. Phew.

Do not ask me how, but, despite all that food, we ordered dessert. I would never manage that at home, but, we were on a roll and besides, the puddings on offer were simply too good to pass on.

Could you have turned down a whisky and marmalade bread and butter pudding, or rhubarb crumble?

Both were exceptionally good and like the pastry on the tart, the crumble on the rhubarb was buttery and crisp at the same time.

Not only have they got the Sunday lunch cracked here, but they also have an excellent handle on service too. It was keen as they have a lot to feed but was always friendly and helpful. I find being called “madam” in a pub a little over formal, but said with the best of intentions I am sure.

The Sawley Arms has been around for a long time but did close for a spell. The pub re-opened in August 2013 under new ownership, and a full refurbishment. Hence why the place looks so well-looked after. Julie Wilks is the manager of the Sawley and with her team, they are doing (to borrow my husband’s phrase) a cracking job.

It seems all those rumours I heard about the Sawley are true. I will be back for sure.

The Sawley Arms, Sawley, Ripon, HG4 3EQ. 01765 620642. Open, Monday to Saturday, 11am–11pm (food served 11am–2.30pm and 5-9pm. A light lunch menu is served 2.30pm-5pm); Sunday, 12-10.30pm (food served, 12pm-8pm).