Beyond checks into the stunning new Penny Bun in Askwith and discovers a place where you really can switch off and leave your troubles behind.

For years it lay neglected, a tired looking building on the outskirts of Ilkley with little appeal to anybody who passed by, let alone ventured inside.

The Penny Bun Feb 2024

Its days as a destination pub for food and drink were over and despite its impressive position in Askwith, enjoying some of the best views across the Wharfe Valley, it remained unloved and untouched.

But then something special happened to the former Black Horse and after being snapped up by the Denton Reserve in 2022, it underwent a £750,000 makeover that transformed this tired pub into a stylish inn and restaurant with seriously cool bedrooms.

The Penny Bun Feb 2024

Welcome to The Penny Bun – named after a mushroom that is foraged nearby and a place that is receiving rave reviews not only for its food and hospitality but for its stunning minimalist design.

Everything from the glasses and tableware, to the polished concrete floor; the hidden corners to the muted, pared-back colour scheme and the carefully curated books to the TV -free rooms are designed with one thing in mind – to transport you from the hustle and bustle of modern life to a place of sheer relaxation, tranquillity and calm.

And at the heart of it all is a menu that is bursting with magic and a true celebration of local produce – much of which is sourced from the nearby Denton estate.

Penny Bun Denton June 2024

We sauntered up to Askwith one Saturday evening in July to check it out for ourselves and for a little sleepover to really get to grips with the charms of The Penny Bun.

Perched comfortably into a delightful linen-clad booth, looking out onto the terrace, equally as beautiful and considered as the interior, we enjoyed a selection of dishes from their seasonal menu which will surely be picking up plenty of awards over the coming months. A special shout out for the Rare Breed Belly Pork and the Spring Pea Arancini which were a joy to behold, but the choice was not easy, the menu here is enticing and doesn’t disappoint.

If you’re looking to make a night of it , then you’d be hard pressed to find somewhere more relaxing to stay than The Penny Bun.

Penny Bun Denton June 2024

Each of the five rooms follow a similar design style to that of the main bar and restaurant with high quality fixtures, fittings and furniture all sourced from independent crafts people and purpose-led companies who value sustainability and quality.

The colour palette is earthy and grounding, It’s contemporary, stylish and full of understated, aesthetically-pleasing mod cons. We’re still not exactly sure how the coffee machine works but it’s a work-of-art in its own right.

And they clearly take quality sleep very seriously with a Hypnos natural wool mattress, luxurious pure linen bedding and magnificently soft, ambient lighting.

Toiletries by award-winning, Yorkshire-based Chapter Organics, complement the décor perfectly , whilst leaving you feeling nourished and refreshed.

They really have thought of everything and it’s a feast for the eyes and senses.

Needless to say we slept well. Really well because
The Penny Bun is designed that way – to offer comfort, quality and style to guests on every level and they have pushed the boat out when it comes to the little touches that make a big difference.

The launch of The Penny Bun is the first chapter for Denton Reserve who have ambitious plans to transform Denton Hall and its sprawling estate into a destination retreat that will take hospitality offerings in the region to another level.

It is an exciting time for the team and as work begins on the hall, The Penny Bun is flying the flag and showcasing just what guests can look forward to over the coming years.

And if this first offering is anything to go by, then we can’t wait to see what they have in store because The Penny Bun should be on everybody’s list of places to eat, relax and recharge.

Bookings for dining and accommodation can be made via the website at:
The Penny Bun, West Lane, Askwith LS21 2JQ
T: 01943 243200
W: pennybunilkley.co.uk