So, as you eat lovely meals in a succession of great restaurants you’re constantly comparing one with another. “That was the best meal we’ve had…”. Until the next time, of course. So, Moor Hall. It’s absolutely the very best. Incidentally, the Good Food Guide (GFG) said much the same, only one of four ‘world class’ restaurants in the UK, and probably the best. Great minds…

It has a 3 star restaurant in the old house and a 1 star one in the (beautifully converted) barn. We explored the extensive, carefully cultivated vegetable garden. As well as immaculate dedicated growing beds many varieties (artichoke, wild strawberries) are just tucked in amongst the flowers. Trays and trays of micro herbs ready for the kitchen in the glasshouse and pots and pots outside – mint, lemon verbena. 

Following six (six!) little ‘amuses’ – five in the lounge followed by a tour in the garden and the last one served in the kitchen by the chef on the pass – there are eight delicious, carefully crafted, ingenious, fabulous, stunning, beautifully presented (careful…Ed) courses. Each one as good as/better than the previous one. Then four puddings (four!), with the last served in the lounge – yoghurt, honey etc – with a selection of sweet treats. We opted to bring a selection home….but one was non-negotiable – we just had to eat it there and then.

Very thoughtful sommelier serving a small selection of wines by the glass (BTG) at sensible prices (for a 3 star restaurant) kept us going.

So very probably the best food we’ve eaten (…and you’ve been around…Ed), served by friendly knowledgeable staff, in a beautiful building. Terra in Hurworth could probably learn a thing or two here. We can’t imagine finding anywhere better – this is ‘as good as it gets’…till the next time. Maybe.

Restaurant with rooms Moor Hall

We stayed in our of their ‘sheds’ – beautiful and luxurious outside timber clad lodges. Spacious and private. Ours should have had a hot tub (no we didn’t want it) so we weren’t too disappointed when they sent us a message saying it wouldn’t be working and would we like a £50 discount. And they left us a complimentary bottle of nice champagne.