The Cross Keys, Skipton

Walking into the Cross Keys is like entering a small baronial hall with stone walls, large fireplace and solid rustic furniture. To the right is a dining area and food is important here but the beer isn't bad either. On offer were Copper Dragon Golden Pippin, Scott's 1816 and Best along with Theakston's Best. The Golden Pippin and 1816 were decent but very cold. A good place to head for if you're walking, boating or cycling.

Once a series of cottages,this stone built pub is popular with walkers and boaters from the nearby Leeds and Liverpool with many people using it to grab some food.You enter into the tap room,which is carpeted,has a large inglenook to one side,and another fireplace on the opposite wall.This must make any winter visit very cosy.There is much exposed stonework around the walls and some beams to admire.The furniture is functional for dining and there are two very high backed chairs in either corner,a rustic type of throne. To the right of the serving bar there is another seating area and then at a lower level a large restaurant for more formal dining.Finally there is a side section off the main bar with some high tables and stools and it's own serving area.All four handpumps are at the main bar,with three from the house Copper Dragon Brewery together with a Theakston's Best. My Golden Pippin was in good order but the line chiller was used rather too enthusiastically.Similarly the musak seemed out of place in such a rural location and the pub was quieter than usual due to a temporary kitchen refurb,so the crew went hungry .I have used this pub in the past and enjoyed the food,and I expect to be back.