The Hermit, in location at least, lives up to its name. Perched on the edge of Ilkley Moor, the pub sits huddled in the tiny village of Burley Woodhead - a remote but welcome surprise after the deserted moorland roads.

But entering the traditional inn advertising home cooked food one Friday evening, it was far from solitary. My husband and I were met by a buzzing hum of chit chat and merriment that would befit the liveliest of pub names. And judging by the shouts of customers' names across the bar, it was definitely a pub full of regulars - always a good sign.

Ordering some drinks, we managed to find a table in the bar where we could peruse the menu, jealous of the occupants of the one and only window seat which boasted beautiful views of the valley below.

The menu was pretty standard for a pub meal, so we plumped for some of the specials chalked up on the blackboard which sounded far more exciting.

I ordered lamb and mint bangers and mash while my husband decided on bacon chops. We were then ushered to one of two more spacious eating areas decked out with the brass decorations and beams you would expect to find in a traditional pub.

My starter of garlic mushrooms was deliciously hot with a tasty sauce, while John enjoyed his prawn cocktail starter.

Similarly he tucked into his main course. But I must admit I was left struggling with the bangers which had been treated to a very rich gravy. Although tasty, they were deserving of someone with a heartier appetite than me.

And it left me with no space to entertain the fascinating list of desserts priced about £2.25, ranging from lumpy bumpy chocolate puddings to a raspberry rice pudding.

The main courses, though, were both good value at around £5.50 and if you're ever stranded on Ilkley Moor, I would definitely recommend the Hermit for a warm welcome and hearty feed.

Suzy Poole

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.