An area of outstanding BEAUTY

Local produce, historical sights and picturesque villages are among the delights North Yorkshire has to offer. Food Editor Samuel Goldsmith explores chef Tommy Banks’ stunning home county

- Samuel Goldsmith

The beautiful village of​ Oldstead is surrounded by the North York Moors National Park, Howardian Hills and Hambleton Hills, and it’s clear to see why chef Tommy Banks’ family have never fallen out of love with the area.

Undulating hills

The Howardian Hills have been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Rolling countryside, remnants of historic buildings and grand country estates are married with some of the country’s best food experiences. Members of the Howard family, after whom the hills were named, still live in the area today.

Slightly larger, and with perhaps a little more to see, are the Hambleton Hills. These are home to Sutton Bank, which houses an Iron Age hill fort, and the Kilburn White Horse. And the views! North Yorkshire has some of the most epic landscapes England has to offer. For those who like a hike before lunch, there is no better place.

Keeping it in the family

First awarded a Michelin star at just 24, Tommy Banks became the youngest-ever holder of the accolade. Since then, he has opened Roots in York (more on that later), won the BBC’s Great British Menu fish course round twice and hosted The Big Family Cooking Showdown on BBC Two. A champion of local produce, he and his family have created a sustainable business model where the farm in Oldstead supplies both restaurants with local produce.

The farm started with 2.5 acres of land, but has expanded into further fields around the property. Tommy’sparents took on The Black Swan at Olstead in 2006. The restaurant with rooms claimed its first Michelin star in 2012, with Tommy taking over the reins and retaining the star in 2013.