The Devonshire in Skipton is the T&A's Pub of the Week

Built during the 1780s, the landmark building sat on Newmarket Street, Skipton, part of the then-unmade road to Otley, and provided stabling for horses at the rear.

Originally called The New Inn after a former dwelling on the site, it was renamed The Devonshire after the daughter of the building’s designer married the Duke of Devonshire.

The inn was sold in 1897 for £6,000. It changed hands again in 1911, being bought by Tetley’s brewery for just £2,800.

Fast forward more than a century and the Grade ll-listed hostelry - our Telegraph & Argus Pub of the Week - still attracts locals and visitors to the market town, keen to sample its Yorkshire hospitality.

The Devonshire became part of the JD Wetherspoon stable in 2004 and underwent an extensive refurbishment last year.

Manager Adam Duckworth has been at the helm since March 2023. “It’s a very popular pub and looks great after it’s refurbishment,” he says.

The stylish interior. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb)

The inn was refurbished last year. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb Photography)

The light, spacious interior features a hand-painted mural of the pub.

“We are in a good location near Skipton Castle, the theatre, the bus and railway station, and it’s just down the road from Craven College so we get a real mix of people including regulars, tourists, walkers and students.”

Adam has worked for Wetherspoon for more than seven years, at pubs across the Pennines in his native Lancashire.

“We get really busy on Skipton's annual Sheep Day when there are loads of activities, and also when the Christmas markets are on. There’s always a great atmosphere,” he adds.

Adam mans the pumps. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb)

The bar. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb)

The varied menu features pub classics such as bangers and mash - there’s a vegetarian version - fish and chips and steak and kidney pudding. Curry, burgers and pizza are also popular choices.

Take-away meals are available. “These are becoming more popular, especially on market days,” says Adam, who is in his first post as pub manager.

Permanent beers include Chinook from Crossflatts-based Goose Eye Brewery, Greene King’s Abbot ale and Sharp’s Doom Bar.

“We have selected beers on rotation, which include choices from local breweries,” says Adam.

An attractive seating area to the front of the inn soaks up the sun throughout the day in spring and summer. “It is very popular on warm days, especially during term time at the college.”

There's plenty of room outside. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb)

The pub is at the heart of the town. Picture: David Webb Photography (Image: David Webb Photography)

Adam praises his team of staff. “Everyone is very positive - they work hard and look out for one another.”

He loves his job. “Every day is different and it’s great to be busy. I have got to know a lot of the customers now, which makes the job even more enjoyable.”

*The Devonshire Inn, 22 Newmarket Street, Skipton, BD23 2HR; jdwetherspoon.com