Jul 10
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Food, Yorkshire Rhubarb
You’re going to need -
500g Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb
1 Onion
100ml cider vinegar
1cm piece of fresh ginger
200g white sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1. Chop the rhubarb into bite size chunks – you can get creative with this, chunky can look good but so can small – however you like your chutney!
2. Place the onion, ginger, salt and sugar into a large non-aluminium pan. Bring it to the boil and keep it boiling for around 5 minutes.
3. Add the rhubarb and bring the heat down to a simmer. Keep it there for around 15 minutes and you’ll start to notice the mixture thickening.
4. If you plan to keep the chutney now is the time to put it into a sterilised jar. Pop the top on and allow to cool in the kitchen before storing in the fridge.
5. If the chutney is to dress a meal today then allow it to cool in the kitchen until just warm to the touch. This will work as a wonderful accompaniment to smoked fish when served with a strong peppery side salad! Enjoy!
Jul 04
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Food, Yorkshire Recipes, Yorkshire Rhubarb
You’ll require -
10 sticks of rhubarb
190g/6.5ozs flour
110g/4ozs demerara sugar
110g/4ozs softened butter
1 tablespoon powdered ginger
4 tablespoons water
8 tablespoons of caster sugar
1. Fire the oven up to 180C / 350F / Gas Mark 4
2. Chop the rhubarb in sticks that are roughly 5cms / 2ins long and put them in an ovenproof tray. Sprinkle the water on and roast in the preheated oven for roughly 10 minutes.
3. After the 10 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle on the ginger. Give it all a good mix around.
4. Transfer this rhubarb mix into an ovenproof dish that is around 4cms deep.
5. Using a rubbing technique mix the butter, flour and sugar to make the crumble topping. When this is a suitable consistency toss over the top of the rhubarb and bake for around 30 minutes. You may wish to bake a little longer for a crunchier crumble. Prod with a knife to ensure the mix is hot all the way through before removing from the oven. The rhubarb should be bubbling gently and the crumble should have a nice golden brown appearance.
6. Allow to cool before adding your favourite from the following list – Ice cream, double cream, single cream or all of the above!
Jul 03
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Food, Fun, Yorkshire Rhubarb
You’ll need -
1 pie case
6 Bramley apples – peeled, cored and chopped
3 Sticks of Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb
2 teaspoons of powdered cinnamon
4 Tablespoons of water
8 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 Egg yolk
1. Get the oven nice and hot, around 220C / 440F should do the trick.
2. Chop the Rhubarb into 3cm/1in long pieces and place in baking tray. Chop the apples into 1cm/1/2in cubes and place in the same tray. Roast for 5-10 minutes.
3. Remove the fruit from the oven and mix the sugar and cinnamon evenly through the rhubarb and apples.
4. Place the fruit mix into the pie case and and place the top on. Ensure you make some holes to release the pressure – otherwise things will get messy when you bake!
5. Using a pastry brush, apply the egg yolk to the top of the pie, this will ensure a nice brown finish.
6. Bake the pie for around 45 mins or until the pie is golden brown. Remove from oven for 10 minutes – it’ll be hot!
7. Add a large scoop of vanilla ice-cream or custard and enjoy!
Jul 01
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Yorkshire Rhubarb
Around 90% of the worlds ‘forced’ winter rhubarb comes from a small area in Yorkshire. That area is lovingly known as the ‘rhubarb triangle’ whose points lay at the the city of Wakefield and the towns of Morley and Rothwell. Within this nine square miles lay the smaller villages of East Ardsley, Stanley, Lofthouse and Carlton.
Traveling though these areas you’ll see dozens of ‘forcing sheds’ in which the rhubarb is grown out of season. ‘Forced Rhubarb’ is often a brighter red colour than outdoor cultivated plants and is often sweeter with a more tender texture. The rhubarb is ‘forced’ by raising the temperature local to the plant – this is often done by covering the shoots as they comes through the soil, the rhubarb thrives in this spring/summer temperature and grows as such.
Rhubarb is native to Siberia and therefore enjoys the cold Yorkshire winters! The type of rhubarb produced in Yorkshire carries the name ‘Forced Yorkshire Rhubarb’ and, in the same was Champagne may only be branded as such if it is produced in the Champagne region – Yorkshire Forced Rhubarb was, in February 2010 awarded Protected Designation of Origin status by the European Commission’s protected Food Name Scheme.
The ‘forcing’ of Rhubarb is a time consuming and delicate process. Firstly, the rhubarb plants are grown outside and not touched for roughly two years. This gives the plants strong roots and the energy they hold within them bolsters these growth when they are moved indoors. This transfer is done in deep winter, normally November, where the farmers can ensure the plants have been subjected to a frost before they are plunged into the darkness of the sheds. As the temperature rises the plants begin to grow – however, the rhubarb grows and is tended to by candlelight, anything more would halt the growing process. Traditionally the coal mining heritage of the rhubarb triangle meant coal was the cheapest way to heat the sheds, however, with the decline of the mining in the area, diesel is now preferred.
Between the late 1800s and around 1940 an express train stopped at Ardsley railway station every day of the ‘forcing’ season. This express locomotive was specifically designated to carry rhubarb down to the south of England and over the channel to France. The food markets of London and Paris could sell however much of the sweet produce was shipped to them and the industry had thousands of farmers and farm hands ensuring the train ran at full capacity everyday. At it’s peak, 200 tons of rhubarb followed the tracks to the capital and beyond everyday!
Although the market today is not quite so demanding the triangle lives on. Although at it’s peak the area had expanded from the 9 miles mentioned to a huge 30 mile area, it now rests comfortably back with the original Wakefield-Rothwell-Morley triangle. Wakefields council has rhubarb festival every February and die-hard fans of the plant can come and see chefs muster up some of the finest recipes – after they’ve had the pleasure of touring the forcing fields. You’ll see Wakefield councils lasting acknowledgement of the triangle in Holmfield Park where they erected a sculpture depicting the humble rhubarb plant in 2005.
For somewhere to stay on your trip to Yorkshire check out our Lodges for sale in North Yorkshire
Jun 07
Abbots GreenLocal Attractions Yorkshire Attractions, Yorkshire Visitor Attractions
Snainton Riding Centre, Snainton – With over 40 years of experience and fully qualified instructors, there are few days out that’ll be as thrilling as horse trekking! With everyone aged 4+ welcome, regardless of ability. The facilities are brilliant and the horses are all exceptionally friendly and well trained!
Doodlepots, Whitby – Why not try your hand at some pottery and painting? Pick your pot and spend as much time as you like decorating it with the huge selection of materials at Doodlepots! Very modest charges for the studio time and pots. Pop back a couple of days later and your pot is glazed, fired and ready to take home!
Peasholm Park Battleships, Scarborough – Home of the ’smallest manned navy in the world’! Watch miniature battleships disrupt the peace and quiet in the tranquil park surroundings as they reenact battles of days gone by! A thrilling day out and the perfect addition to walking around the wonderful park.
Go Ape, Thornton-le-Dale – Ready for an al action day out? Go Ape is definitely for you! High wires, tarzan swings, zip slides and rope bridges all in the canopy of the Dalby Forest national park! Booking is essential and age limits apply so call in advance! Get ready for an adrenaline fuelled day!
Beck Isle Museum, Pickering – Home of the first agricultural college in the UK and now the site of a stunning grade 2 listed building that houses some fantastic galleries. 27 rooms of agricultural history covering hundreds of years. Photography fans will be right at home too with hundreds of images shot by local photographers.
Falconry UK Birds of Prey Centre, Kirkby Wiske – Over 70 birds from 30 species feature at the centre and you’ll see some of the most amazing bird handling in the UK. The kids will be thrilled as the birds swoop inches over their heads and come to rest just a few feet away!
Inspired By… Gallery, Danby – A collection of art work and sculpture by a large range of artists, all inspired by the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors. Admission is free and and with a wide range of opening times this is great place to drop into on a rainy day!
Castle Howard, York – Sat in 1000 acres of stunning park land, dotted with fountains, temples, statues and lakes. You can take a boat trip around the Great Lake and then wander through the house and admire the huge collection of family heirlooms and history. A wonderful selection of shops and cafes mean you won’t go hungry either!
Yorkshire Wolds Gallery, Staxton – A wonderful contemporary art gallery with some fantastic pieces that’ll appeal to a wide age range. If you haven’t already eaten you’ll find some excellent homemade food and great teas and coffees to enjoy while looking out onto the stunning views of the Wolds.
Wolds Way Lavender, Malton – A wonderful family run attraction just outside Malton. You’ll get to look out over the huge lavender fields as you follow some of the tranquil nature trails. There’s plenty of opportunity to eat and drink in the tearoom before exploring the sensory areas and miniature railway!
Jun 07
Abbots GreenLocal Attractions North Yorkshire Theatres
Skipton Little Theatre, Skipton – A litany venue with a big heart! Always warm and welcoming, the Little Theatre stages a variety of plays throughout the year. With a history going back into the 1930s you’re bound to be won over by the charming Theatre and the Skipton Players Drama Society.
The Royal Hall, Harrogate – After being restored between 2006-2008, The Royal Hall is a breathtaking venue and was, in years gone by, considered one of the most significant entertainment venues outside of London. Built in 1903 it is the only surviving ‘cure hall’ in the UK and has played an important role in Harrogates history. Worth visiting on one of the Theatres open days for a thrilling guided tour.
Theatre Royal, Richmond – Built in 1788, the Theatre Royal is a Georgian masterpiece. It boasts some of the most historical set scenery and is still home to ballet, comedy, drama and much more. A winner of numerous awards and now with an 11 month programme, it really is a ‘must visit’ if you’re in North Yorkshire!
Harrogate International Centre, Harrogate – One of the counties, if not the countries, most impressive venues. Known as the ‘palace of glittering gold’! Here you’ll find world class music, comedy and drama. Home to the Harrogate International Festival, the Centre continues to welcome the biggest names in music, dance, ballet and much much more. Not to be missed!
The Victoria Hall, Settle – A fantastic venue with a wide range of shows, from Rock music to world cinema, there’s something for everyone here. Seating 230 people, the Victoria Hall is an intimate venue and never fails to please.
Frazer Theatre, Knaresborough – Hidden off the high street and home to the ‘Knaresborough Players’, the Frazer is home to a number of shows every year as well as the film theatre which shows a selection of the latest comedy, action and children’s features. Make sure you book early if you plan to see one of the ever popular pantomimes, they’re always guaranteed to sell-out!
Pateley Playhouse, Pateley Bridge – Starting life as a Methodist Chapel in mid-1800s, the Playhouse is a truly wonderful place to spend time. Although a tiny venue holding only 73 people, you’ll regularly find touring shows, charity events, film shows and lots more. Home to the Pateley Bridge Amateur Dramatic Society whose performances often surpass professional standards.
The Mart Theatre, Skipton – As the name would suggest, the Mart theatre is placed in a working auction mart and is totally unique, the only one in the UK! Partly funded by the auction mart, the theatre considers itself ‘non-traditional’ and offers an experimental programme with a mix of productions, workshops and events.
Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate – Sat right in the heart of Harrogate and known as the ‘Grand Opera House’. The spectacular theatre was designed by Frank Tugwell, who also designed the incredible Savoy Theatre in London. From Charlie Chaplin to Sir Ben Kingsley, the theatre has played host to the greats of stage and screen. After recent renovation the theatre should not be missed if you’re in town!
Open Air Theatres – Found at Fountains Abbey, RHS Harlow, Carr Gardens and Ripley Castle. Not a traditional ‘theatre’ venue but well worth keeping an eye out for! Be quick though, these open air performances sell out very quickly. Keep you fingers crossed for a sunny day!
May 01
Abbots GreenLocal Attractions North Yorkshire Towns, Yorkshire Market Towns
Thirsk
A picturesque cobbled marketplace surrounded by some fantastic local pubs, great eateries and local shops. One of North Yorkshire’s gems, Thirsk Market attracts some interesting stalls every Monday and Saturday and you’ll find plenty of parking within a stones throw!
Helmsley
An ancient settlement that was thriving before the doomsday book was even thought of! Traditionally the market attracted attracted weavers and tanners although now you’re more likely to find pretty little boutique shops and fabulous food! Weekend attracts cyclists and motorcyclists alike who flock from miles around to enjoy a well earned rest and feed in the historic market place!
Richmond
There are few places in Yorkshire where you’ll find so many different architectural influences – from the soaring Normal castle to the stunning Georgian townhouses – all built around the largest marketplace in the UK. Prepare to fall in love with the scenery around the area. Why not take your paintbrushes? Richmond has inspired artists throughout the ages!
Malton
Leave yourself plenty of time to explore! The marketplace runs parallel to a main street filled with fantastic shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. If you’re visiting on a Saturday you’ll be able to enjoy some local produce from the farmers market – bring a big bag! A fantastic market and a fantastic town you’ll definitely visit again.
Northallerton
You won’t come closer to escaping the modern retail world than you will in Northallerton. A huge selection of local shops run by local people. Prepare to be fascinated by the plaques you’ll find dotted around the town, marking sites of historical note. Wednesday and Saturday are market days – the high street suddenly turns into a thriving market!
Leyburn
Be sure to take your camera when you visit – Leyburn marketplace is one of the highest in the UK and offers stunning views over the Yorkshire Dales. The weekly market arrives on Friday, boasting produce from the local area and much more. If you’re looking for livestock, or just fancy watching, have a wander to the Auction Mart where you’ll find some of the finest sheep in the UK changing hands!
Masham
For those who are familiar with ‘Theakston’s’ and ‘Black Sheep Ale’ Masham and it’s breweries are a must visit location! Some great eateries and watering holes surround a spectacular marketplace that was established early in the 13th Century. Wednesday and Saturday are market days and offer a great chance to buy a picnic lunch to enjoy in the fabulous park nearby!
Settle
A small market town with a big heart! A friendly local community means that there’s never a dull day in Settle. A regular haunt for walkers tackling the 3 peaks of Ingleborough, Penyghent and Whernside. Plenty of places to refuel tired legs if you’re on foot or just drop in for some great food if you’re not! Tuesday is market day or, if you find yourself here on the second Sunday of the month you’ll find a bustling Farmers Market.
Pickering
One of the most historic towns in the North of England, Pickering is thought to date back to around 280BC. Every turn you take is met with historic buildings and wonderful local businesses. On Monday the market sets up nice and early and can easily be a full days entertainment when added to some fantastic local food and drink. If you’re looking for a way to persuade the kids – let them know parts of PIckering featured as Hogsmeade in the Harry Potter films!
Apr 30
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Dining In North Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Restaurants
The Blue Bicycle – York – Fantastic food in the most intriguing of venues! As ‘a house of ill repute’ in the Victorian era the Blue Bicycle offers dining in private downstairs booths – as well as in it’s fantastic eclectic dining room upstairs! Only the freshest produce, cooked to perfection by world class chefs. This has to be one of the most talked about restaurants in the area!
Blue Lion – East Whitton nr. Leyburn – High quality service and food fit for Royalty will greet you at the Blue Lion! Stunning scenery surrounds this country Inn and the menu never fails to please. A relaxed atmosphere and fabulous selection of drinks will have you visiting again and again.
The Brasserie – Harrogate – Seasonal dishes served in the most fantastic setting! If amazing food, a softly lit room and live jazz sounds like it could be your thing then this restaurant is a must visit. The service is second to none and the wine list is superb. If the sun is shining a drink amongst the flowers on the pavement terrace is not to be missed.
Oswalds at Sowerby – Sowerby – A self confessed ‘passion for food and people’ is clear from the moment you enter this wonderful venue. Where possible Oswalds source all produce from North Yorkshire – combine this with the talent and flair of their three world class chefs and you’re likely to have one of the most memorable meals in a long time.
Carriages – Knaresborough – Often considered ‘the place to go’ in Knaresborough, Carriages offers excellent service fronted by a charming host. An excellent Tapas selection that you’re welcome to mix with the outstanding a la carte menu. With an attached wine bar the staff will make sure your glass never runs dry! Lovely food in a lively environment.
Brandy Snap Bistro – Thornton-Le-Dale nr. Pickering – Recently renovated, the Brandy Snap offers top drawer dining in a very friendly setting. The portions here will satisfy even the most hungry visitor and when so much love goes into the puddings – it’d be rude not to indulge! The Tipsy Toffee Brandysnap Basket seems like the obvious choice – although maybe not if you’re driving!
The Traddock Austwick – nr. Settle - Set in what was once a Georgian family home ‘The Traddock’ is an awarding winning restaurant as well as stunning hotel. Locally produced organic ingredients are used wherever possible through a truly wonderful menu. A huge wine list and fabulous service will round off a memorable dining experience!
Thai Jantra – Boston Spa nr. Wetherby – This is Thai dining with a difference. Set in an old village coaching house the team at Thai Jantra insist on locally sourced organic ingredients. If it’s a warm evening you’re welcome to dine al fresco. North Yorkshire raised beef, chicken and pork, served in traditional Thai dishes – a winning combination! Superb food and equally superb service!
Frenchgate Restaurant - Richmond – Fine dining at it’s best. A 100 bin wine list accompanies a modern British and European menu. Set on a cobbled street in one of the most beautiful parts of Richmond, The Frenchgate offers a sophisticated but friendly atmosphere with impeccable service and standards. An unforgettable experience!
Chapters Restaurant and Brasserie - Stokesley – A choice between the formal restaurant or relaxed brasserie means there’s something for everyone at Chapters. There’s even the terrace on a warm evening! Wonderful art work can be found as well as incredible service and an exceptional menu! It’s quickly apparent why Chapters has quite so many awards to it’s name!
Apr 06
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking, The Great Outdoors Picnic Spots, Yorkshire Picnics
1. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden – It doesn’t get much more picturesque these Georgian water gardens. Definitely one to take the camera to! Lakes, waterfalls and stunning temple ruins mean you’re never short of a great place to enjoy your sandwiches!
2. Duncombe Country House and Park – The stunning stately home garden is the perfect spot for some outdoor eating! There’s an adventure playground for the kids and some very pretty gardens if you want to work up an appetite with a walk! See if you can find the ’scented secret garden’ and admire the views of the valley.
3. Beningbrough Hall and Gardens – If a picnic in the park surrounding a Georgian Mansion sounds like it’s for you then this is a must! Extensive parkland, wilderness play area and some guided walks if you fancy exploring. Dogs are welcome and there’s plenty to look at in the house when you’ve finished your sandwiches!
4. Goddards Garden – Here you can picnic amongst the wonderful wildlife that calls the garden home! Hedged garden rooms are a lovely feature and ensure some lovely quiet spots. The wilderness gardens make for a lovely wander too. Don’t forget your chocolate in your picnic – the gardens used to belong to Noel Goddard Terry of ‘Terrys’ – the famous York chocolate making company!
5. Nunnington Hall – If you’re wondering what the noise is… it’s probably one of the many peacocks that reside here! Sat on the banks of the Rye, the walled gardens boast some wonderful spring time colours and fabulous spots to enjoy your food. Why not have a look around the hall too? Some great period rooms and a famous collection of miniature rooms upstairs make for an interesting visit.
6. Rievaulx Terrace and Temples – Pretty woodland walks and stunning views aplenty here! You’ll be able to find a spot that looks over the ruins of the Abbey and take in some of the wonderful scents of the wild flowers that cover the bank. The terrace leads on from the woods and makes for some fantastic pictures – definitely one to take the camera to.
7. Richmond Castle – One of the most spectacular in the North of England, Richmond Castle provides the perfect place for a picnic in the surrounding wooded parkland. The castle is one of the oldest Norman stone fortresses in the whole of the country so there’s plenty of history to be taken in!
8. Sutton Bank – Often passed through by tourists but few realise there’s a picnic area with views to rival virtually any in the UK! You’ll see miles and miles of North Yorkshire country side. In fact, the only people with better views will be the paragliders sailing overhead! Well worth dropping into the National Park visitors centre too!
9. Monk Park Farm – Perhaps you’d like to picnic amongst wallabies, deer, llamas and other such exotic breeds! Monk Park offers these and many more interesting species in the heart of Herriot Country. Adventure playground, nature trails and pedal cars mean that no one will get bored – even when the sandwiches and crisps are gone!
10. Kirkham Priory – The ruins of the old priory provide the perfect place for that quiet summer picnic. Pick your spot anywhere off the footpath that follows the river and explore and play amongst the ruins. The setting for many local legends, you’ll still see the ancient family crests on the gatehouse walls. A fantastic spot you’ll definitely want to visit again.
Abbots Green offers the perfect base for visiting the whole of Yorkshire and beyond, for a look round, click here to go to our contact page.
Mar 30
Abbots GreenEating and Drinking Food, Pub Lunch, Pubs
1. Hambleton Inn, Sutton Bank, Thirsk. – A fine country ‘free house’ with a distinctly equine history. Positioned very close to the famous White Horse carving at Kilburn, The Hambleton Inn is a very welcoming venue thanks to hosts Paul and Tracy Cooper… and their roaring open fire! The pub is over 300 years old and boasts an award winning menu.
2. The Black Bull, East Marton, nr. Skipton – Owned by award winning chef Neil Butterworth, The Black Bull is sure to delight with a fantastic menu that can be enjoyed next to the open log fire – or outside on the beautiful terrace. Part of the historic Broughton Hall estate, the pub is set in thousands of acres of perfect Yorkshire countryside. The ‘Cassoulet’ is not to be missed!
3. Crab and Lobster, Topcliffe, nr. Thirsk – If fish is your thing it would be criminal to not experience the seafood pie here! A stunning looking pub with a traditional thatched roof and a real touch of elegance inside. You can pick from an extensive wine list to compliment the truly wonderful food. A real character venue you’ll be sure enjoy! More
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