Nestled in the heart of Barnby Moor, a 40-minute drive from Sheffield city centre, the historic Ye Olde Bell offers far more than a picturesque staycation. While the centuries-old charm of the building and the luxury lodges already set the scene for a pleasant stopover, it’s the recently launched 7-course tasting menu at Restaurant 1650 that’s been receiving rave reviews and was enough to tempt Exposed into Nottinghamshire on a Friday evening.
THE PLACE
Set in a beautifully restored 17th-century coaching inn, the place oozes character – think oak-panelled walls, twinkling chandeliers and a cosy, old-meets-new vibe that has received a few additional licks of paint recently, namely the St Leger Bistro, which offers its own breakfast, brunch and a la carte menus throughout the week. But it’s Executive Chef Terry Phillips who’s really turning up the flavour at the adjacent Restaurant 1650. With previous experience cooking at Chatsworth House and a passion for top-notch local produce, he’s put together a menu that’s both modern, elegant and comforting in all the right ways.
THE FOOD
The evening kicked off with a creamy goat’s cheese and caramelised onion jam mille-feuille with a punchy beetroot purée and a drizzle of basil oil to set things off – a light yet flavour-packed opener paired with a crisp glass of Chablis. Then came the black bomber cheese croquette with tomato and chilli jam – rich, gooey and had us enthusing and had us raving about chilli jam like it was the culinary invention of the century.
Next up were perfectly pan-seared scallops with cauliflower purée and curry oil – a clever combo of sweet, savoury and a little spice. A zingy lemon sorbet gave our tastebuds a fresh reset before the main event: beautifully charred lamb, bubble & squeak, and a Guinness sauce so good we’d have happily asked for seconds (or taken it home in a bottle).
Dessert was a triple treat: a praline & chocolate tart, rhubarb crème brûlée, and a mini toffee apple – all polished off with a rich dessert wine that brought out the best in every bite. We ended the night with coffee, truffles and seriously full bellies.
At £65 per head (£100 with wine flight), it’s seriously good value for food of this quality. And with ingredients sourced from Whitby’s coast, local butchers and the farms around the hotel, it’s not only good value but a shining example of what contemporary British dining can offer.
THE VERDICT
Worth the drive? If you’re looking for a top-tier dining experience in a place full of character, absolutely. Just make sure you book ahead – it’s very popular and easy to see why.
Available Friday evenings from 6.30pm
Booking essential: 01777 705121
Website: yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk
Follow: @yeoldebellhotel
