When we asked the people of Ripon which pubs are the city’s finest, One Eyed Rat was at the top of the list. After visiting, we know why.
What to expect at One Eyed Rat
A narrow, Grade II listed building in a row of 200-year-old terraced houses, One Eyed Rat has been delighting Ripon’s real ale lovers since 1996. We visited on one of the coldest days of the year and the roaring open fire at the entrance was welcome relief from the biting winter weather. The pub is narrow and long, with generous, traditional seating and a lengthy bar that houses a reassuringly broad range of beers. At the rear, a huge beer garden sits 100, complete with covered and heated areas. (Since it was Baltic outside, we stayed toasty in the lounge, but can’t wait to try out that beer garden come summer!). Being one of the best pubs in Ripon city centre, it’s understandably popular and does get busy, but it manages to retain its charm and cosy atmosphere.
What’s to drink at One Eyed Rat?
The quality and consistency of One Eyed Rat’s pints has made it a favourite amongst beer-lovers for decades. On our visit, six cask ales were available, all from Yorkshire or the North-East: regulars from Ossett Brewery (Ossett, Wakefield) and Saltaire Brewery (Shipley), alongside Acorn Brewery (Barnsley), Anarchy Brew Co (Newcastle-upon-Tyne), Helmsley Brewing Co (Helmsley, North Yorkshire) and Ilkley Brewery (Ilkley, West Yorkshire). Three rotating craft kegs were on offer, from SALT Beer Factory (Saltaire, West Yorkshire), Tiny Rebel (Newport) and Roosters Brewing Co (Harrogate), as well as premium lagers, pilsners and cider. We chose one of our favourites – Helmsley’s HiPA! and the Barnsely Bitter from Acorn, which were both exceptional.
Where can I find One Eyed Rat?
One Eyed Rat is in the centre of Ripon on the historic Allhallowgate, a 5-minute walk from Ripon Cathedral and 10 minutes from the lovely Ripon Canal Basin. Ripon doesn’t have a train station, but buses run regularly from Harrogate and Thirsk stations. St Marygate Car Park is just down the road.
What’s on at One Eyed Rat?
One Eyed Rat host occasional events, including quizzes, live music in the beer garden, festive carols with brass band accompaniment and pie and peas nights. Check their Events page on Facebook for the latest updates.
One Eyed Rat, Ripon: Summary
- Wet pub
- Great beers and ales
- Dog-friendly
- Large beer garden
- Parking close by
- Open fire
- Ripon city centre
Where can I find out more information?
For the latest opening times, upcoming events and to find out what beers are on the bar, follow One Eyed Rat on Facebook and Instagram.
Is One Eyed Rat your favourite pub in Ripon? Let us know and follow our blog for more reviews from Ripon and North Yorkshire!
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