The Fleece, Otley

This is one of a number of pubs that has been newly refurbished in Otley.

A 5 minute walk out of the centre of Otley, the effort to get there is worth it as the pub is modern but retains a comfortable country pub feel.

The menu is an interesting mix of British classics presented in tapas and sharing platter form.

We ordered at the bar and enjoyed a pint of the Wharfebank hand pulled ale as we waited for the food to arrive.

I ordered 'The Big Pig' which when it came consisted of 2 sausages, 2 rashers of bacon, pork belly and pork loin, crackling, apple sauce, stuffing and huge chunky chips (that were more the size of roast potatoes).Oh yep and some gravy too.

In all honesty this would have been more than sufficient for two to share for lunch or as a mega drinking snack between a table.

It was all pretty simple, the main feature of the dish being the decent quality of the meat used.

Liam had an impressive looking steak and ale pie, with home made pastry and green veg.

Both dishes were £9.95 each which are the most expensive dishes- lunch plates start at just £4. The food was simple but of such a good standard I want to go back to try all of the other things on the menu.

On the subject of recently refurbished pubs... The Bowling Green has been taken over by Weatherspoons, its standard of the chain- comfortable interior, nice toilets and a decent selection of ales at a good price. The Old Cock is old and quaint and cosy. They are a free house with 8 hand pumps that they use to showcase and champion ales from local micro breweries.

The Fleece
*Comfortable and modern
*Delicious food
*Good value tapas concept

Westgate,
Otley,
LS21 3DT

01943 465 034
Website