Starling, Harrogate

Popular bar in the centre of Harrogate, enlarged in 2022 with a tasteful extension of the ground floor into the neighbouring property. The long L-shaped bar counter is constructed from reclaimed wood with tiled flooring at the base, and holds eight handpulls offering a well-chosen range of six or seven Yorkshire and northern ales, comprising a good mix of styles and strengths, always including a gluten-free option and often including a dark beer in winter. A collaboration cask ale between Amity, a small Leeds brewery, and Starling, is often served. Ten keg lines supply a long bridge font on the bar, and boxed ciders, usually Lilley’s or Pulp, are also available. The beer choices are displayed on a TV screen behind the bar, and on screens upstairs, with a live feed to the website.

Bare brick walls in places, including a mural of a murmuration of starlings to one side, elsewhere the pub is decorated in modern style with lighting suspended from a high ceiling downstairs. The pub offers three distinct inside areas; in addition to the large downstairs bar there are two further rooms upstairs providing family friendly space and café style drinking and dining. There is also a pleasant (non-smoking/vaping) courtyard garden area at the back of the pub.

Teas and coffees are available from early morning together with a brunch menu; stone-baked pizzas are served from 12pm.

NB. Card payments preferred, though cash accepted for small purchases where the correct amount is tendered. Change may not be given.

Awards

• Branch Pub of the Year 2018