Don't Tell the Duke

Wetherby is precisely the mid-point between London and Edinburgh; two hundred miles in either direction will land you in a capital city. That alone would make it a perfect staging post, but on top of that you have Don’t Tell the Duke, a brunch joint, steak restaurant, wine bar and café rolled into one, with real personality to boot.

The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and the décor quirky, so you’ll feel as comfortable popping in for one of the generous, rich coffees as a full meal. Order a treacle-cured bacon bap or sweet potato and cumin rösti for brunch, Buddha bowl or chicken burger for lunch or perhaps a grilled Cajun seabass or juicy steak for dinner. If you’re hungry, go for the decadent sharing boards, a big pile of steak, crab, pork and salads served on an almost equally big slab of wood; If you fancy just having nibbles or prefer tapas style dining, there’s an extensive small plate menu to choose from. There are also deliciously creative cocktails, local ales, and an impressive selection of gins and wine; if you’re driving, never fear – you can choose from one of the tasty fresh juice mixes.

It is in the town, but the nearby Wilderness car park on the river bank (by the very pretty bridge) is a short stroll away and free of charge.