The Durham Ox is a much-loved gastropub set in the heart of the picturesque hilltop village of Crayke, 25 minutes north of York. Family-owned, this award-winning inn combines the character of a traditional English inn with the comfort and style of a boutique countryside stay. Expect flagstone floors, exposed beams, oak panelling and roaring fires in winter, alongside warm hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular with food lovers, walkers, and weekend escape seekers, it has earned recognition in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list. Its location on the edge of the Howardian Hills makes it an excellent base for exploring North Yorkshire, York, Helmsley, and the North York Moors.
The Durham Ox Crayke, North Yorkshire, YO61 4TE
- 8 bedrooms
- 8 bedrooms
Award-winning Gastropub in a hilltop village near York
Facilties & Amenities
- Beer Garden
- Breakfast
- Craft Beer
- Dog Friendly Rooms
- Family Friendly
- Gastro Pub
- Log Fires
- Meeting Space
- Parking
- Spa & Wellbeing
- WiFi
Bedrooms
The Durham Ox has a collection of individually styled bedrooms spread across converted stone farm buildings, alongside a studio suite above the pub and a nearby self-catering cottage. Rooms combine rustic Yorkshire character with modern comfort, featuring comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, tea trays, TV’s and thoughtful touches throughout. Some rooms enjoy countryside views, while the Pool Suites provide private outdoor spa pool experiences for a more indulgent stay. The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed, making this a popular choice for romantic breaks, foodie weekends and countryside escapes. Dogs are welcome on request with prior acknowledgement in some rooms.
Telegraph Travel wrote: “The Durham Ox is a 17th-century coaching inn over three hundred years old. Once inside this antique treasure of a pub, there’s a lively community atmosphere with locals and first-timers alike. Come here for the pretty converted cottages and a slice of upmarket country living with the Ibbotsons.”
Food & Drink
Food and drink are very much at the centre of life at The Durham Ox, and the kitchen has built a loyal following for its flavour-led approach to modern British pub dining. Menus celebrate the best of Yorkshire’s produce. Expect comforting classics alongside more refined gastropub dishes, from perfectly cooked steaks and fresh fish specials to hearty pies, indulgent desserts and colourful seasonal plates designed for sharing. The atmosphere strikes that sweet spot between relaxed village pub and destination dining room. Long lunches spill out into the courtyard on warmer days, while winter evenings are best spent beside the fire with a pint of local ale or a glass from the carefully chosen wine list. Breakfast is equally thoughtful, with hearty cooked options and lighter choices setting guests up for a day exploring the Howardian Hills or nearby York. Sunday lunch is particularly popular, so booking ahead is well worth it.
