The Golden Fleece has been an inn since Tudor times.  Listed as one of the oldest Coaching Inns in England, this charming Hotel has served weary travellers for nearly four hundred years.

It was develped as a coaching house by George Blythe who purchased the property in 1791 and provided "Good stabling and accommodation"

 Blythe bought the adjoining property and enlarged the Inn. In 1815 he took over the Coaching Business and by 1823 directories show that seven coaches a day called at the Fleece. In the heyday of the road, the Hotel kept fifty or sixty horses in its stables to work the coaches alone.  About this time the Newcastle - London and Edinburgh - London vehicles called at The Golden Fleece.

"Picture the scene as the Newcastle to London mail four-in-hand coach galloped into Thirsk market place, hoofs and wheels clattering on the cobbled stones;  pole chains jingling, leather creaking, accompanied by the mellow tones of the post horn. The the "Whoa mi' beauties!" from the driver as he pulls the ribbons to check his team and bring his coach to a standstill."

In 1840 Mr William Hall became landlord of The Golden Fleece at the age of 21.  Managing the stabling, feeding and gooming of sixty horses as well as handling a large staff and the catering and accommodation side.  He was also responsible for the mail and luggage.  The market place was always bustling with farmers and tradesmen who frequented the Golden Fleece for food and drink.

Set in the heart of Herriot Country, The Golden Fleece is ideally placed for exploring the Yorkshire Moors and Dales, areas of unspoilt beauty. Both the locations are used regularly for the filming of Heartbeat and James Herriot.

For the sportsman, we welcome Shooting Parties and those involved in country pursuits. Please see our Country Sports section for more information.