A great getaway is about the lingering memories – the tastes, the atmosphere. The Black Bull Hotel in Sedbergh, nestled in the breath-taking Yorkshire Dales, offers precisely that. This 17th-century coaching inn delivers unique flavours and becomes the perfect base to explore the literary delights of Sedbergh, England’s Book Town.
The Black Bull Hotel, Sedbergh
Recently, I had the delightful opportunity to experience The Black Bull Hotel in Sedbergh at their invitation. As a travel blogger with a passion for unique escapes and exceptional food, this immediately piqued my interest. With its historic charm, focus on locally sourced ingredients, and the promise of a luxurious stay, I knew this wouldn’t be just another hotel review. It was a chance to delve into a sensory experience that promised to leave a lasting impression.
From the moment you step through the threshold, the Black Bull Inn envelops you in a warm embrace. The historic building exudes charm with its characterful nooks, crackling fireplaces, and a timeless elegance that transcends trends. The décor seamlessly blends traditional touches with modern comfort, ensuring a stay that’s both inviting and sophisticated.
Staying at The Black Bull: A Suite fit for Royalty
My haven for the stay was the luxurious suite – perfect for an indulgent romantic break, or for a cosy family retreat. This spacious sanctuary offered a lounge area with a comfy sofa that cleverly transformed into an extra bed, perfect for a little one. The real star of the show, however, was the bed. Plush and inviting, it was draped in luxuriously soft, handmade British wool blankets created by Laura’s Loom, a local Sedbergh touch.
The pièce de résistance of the suite was undoubtedly the stunning “glass box” bathroom. Imagine stepping into a sanctuary of light and contemporary design, seamlessly integrated within the historic walls. This unique feature wasn’t just practical, it was undeniably chic. The clear glass walls offered a sense of spaciousness and a touch of modern luxury that beautifully juxtaposed the traditional charm of the suite.
The entire suite was a testament to The Black Bull’s masterful transformation. Every detail exemplified the seamless blend of the old pub’s character with modern comfort and amenities. High ceilings and plush carpets offered a sense of grandeur, while carefully chosen furnishings exuded a timeless elegance. The result? A space that felt both luxurious and welcoming, a haven of relaxation after a day of exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
One of the most delightful features of the suite was the window seat. This cosy nook, perfectly positioned next to a large window, was bathed in natural light and offered a delightful glimpse of Sedbergh’s charming streets.. Plush cushions and soft blankets transformed it into the perfect spot for both relaxing and taking in the scenery. With a cup of tea in hand and a good book, I could easily have spent hours curled up on that window seat, watching the clouds drift by and soaking in the tranquillity of the quaint town of Sedbergh.
The Black Bull understands that everyone has unique tastes. That’s why they offer a selection of contemporary room styles to suit your preferences. Each room exudes the same blend of historic charm and modern comfort as the suite, but with subtle variations in design and ambiance.
Perhaps you’ll gravitate towards a cosy room with traditional touches that evoke the inn’s heritage, or maybe you’ll prefer a brighter space filled with natural light for that revitalising energy. The Black Bull’s attention to detail shines through in every room, with thoughtfully chosen furnishings and luxurious textures. Regardless of your preference, you’re sure to find a room that feels like the perfect sanctuary after a day exploring all that Sedbergh has to offer.
Taste of the Black Bull, the 7 course tasting menu
Let’s be honest, the true crown jewel of The Black Bull isn’t just the comfortable surroundings, it’s the food. And more specifically, their magnificent 7-course tasting menu, a culinary masterpiece orchestrated by none other than Chef Patron Nina Matsunaga. With The Black Bull consistently ranking among the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK, you know you’re in for an unforgettable dining experience.
This culinary journey celebrates the bounty of Britain’s seasonal produce, showcasing the freshest, most flavourful ingredients at their peak. But Chef Matsunaga doesn’t stop there. Her heritage adds a captivating twist, with each dish drawing inspiration from her Japanese and German roots. Prepare for a symphony of flavours that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
The 7-course tasting menu at The Black Bull was a true feast for the senses. Each dish unfurled like a culinary masterpiece – the presentation was exquisite, with vibrant colours and artful arrangements that were almost too beautiful to eat. But the real magic happened when the flavours hit my palate. With every course, I was treated to surprising and delightful combinations, textures, and tastes. It was evident that the finest seasonal ingredients were the stars of the show.
What made the experience even more special was the staff. Their warmth and genuine enthusiasm about the menu was infectious. They explained each dish with passion and provided excellent recommendations. Their attentiveness was impeccable, ensuring our glasses were always full and each course arrived with perfect timing.
The wine list is a journey of discovery, constantly evolving to showcase the most exciting gems of the modern wine world. They hand pick a collection of independent producers, especially those passionate about organic, biodynamic, and minimal intervention wines. Of course, you’ll still find some beloved classics alongside these adventurous finds.
Exploring Sedbergh: A Book Lover’s Paradise
As England’s official Book Town, Sedbergh is a dream destination for anyone who loves the scent of old paper and the thrill of unexpected literary finds. Imagine strolling down quaint streets lined with charming bookshops, overflowing with treasures both humble and rare. Whether you’re hunting for a cheap paperback to fill your beach bag or a collectible first edition, you’ll find it in Sedbergh.
Sedbergh Book Shelter
This hidden gem is truly a bookworm’s sanctuary. Picture a former bus shelter transformed into a cosy haven packed with bookshelves. Here, you can grab a read, find a tranquil spot outdoors, and simply lose yourself in a story with the gentle hum of Sedbergh life in the background.
The Sedbergh Book Shelter is more than just a place to find books; it’s a testament to the town’s love for the written word. It’s a place where the community comes together, where stories are shared and imaginations take flight.
Westwood books
Prepare to be amazed! Westwood Books is a labyrinth of literary delights. With over 70,000 titles tucked into every nook and cranny of this converted cinema, you could easily spend hours getting lost among the shelves.
My personal haul included vintage climbing books (a nod to the region’s outdoor allure), some fantastic Yorkshire walking guides, and an old, beautifully-bound copy of my childhood favourite, ‘The Secret Garden’. Westwood Books is a place where you’re bound to leave with unexpected treasures.
Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a bookworm, or simply someone seeking a getaway that feeds the soul, The Black Bull Hotel and Sedbergh offer a unique and unforgettable experience. The luxurious accommodations, the extraordinary “Taste of The Black Bull” tasting menu, and the irresistible charm of this book-filled town all combined to create a trip that surpassed my expectations.
If you’re looking for a place where you can slow down, savour exquisite food, and lose yourself in books or the beauty of nature, this Yorkshire Dales gem won’t disappoint.
Mountains, trails, paddleboards – if it’s outdoors, I’m probably obsessed with it! As an Outdoor Adventure and Travel Editor, I’m always seeking my next escapade. Through my blog, I share adventure stories, mountain-tested advice, healthy food inspiration, and training tips.
Follow Sam’s adventures on Instagram @sams_adventures_x
