Swinton Park & Chef’s Table by Josh Barnes

Swinton Park – Chef’s Table by Josh Barnes

Overview

Swinton Park, located near the market town of Masham in North Yorkshire, blends the grandeur of a country castle hotel with sweeping grounds across the 20,000-acre Swinton Estate. The property is a distinguished choice for those planning a one- or two-night gourmet break, seeking both rural seclusion and top-notch contemporary dining. The Terrace, an acclaimed on-site restaurant and bar, stands as a highlight for food lovers, while the surrounding Dales landscape provides no shortage of inspiration for walkers, spa seekers, and culinary travellers alike.

Eat

In the refined setting of the cookery school at Swinton Park (part of the Swinton Estate), the experience at Chef’s Table by Josh Barnes takes fine dining to another level. The atmosphere is intimate: guests sit at the chef's pass and watch the kitchen in action while being served an exploratory tasting journey.

Head chef Josh Barnes draws heavily from the estate’s foraged, grown and reared ingredients, creating menus that change with the seasons and showcase the very best of North Yorkshire produce. The evening begins with an elegant drinks reception of seasonal aperitifs and then moves into an eight-course (or five-course at lunch) tasting menu where each dish is plated and explained in front of you.

Expect dishes that are thoughtful, technically precise and deeply rooted in place—vegetables from the walled garden, game from the estate, foraged mushrooms, and carefully sourced meats and fish, all presented with care and creativity. The service is polished but relaxed, encouraging interaction with the chef and kitchen team so that you gain insight into how each dish comes together.

Tip: Make sure to book well in advance, mention any dietary requirements at time of booking, and arrive on time to enjoy the full reception and dining journey. Smart casual attire is recommended, and as this is a focused fine-dining experience, it’s best to treat it as a special occasion.

Sleep

As a hotel, Swinton Park offers a variety of individually styled rooms and suites, set within a historic castellated mansion. Accommodation ranges from classic and heritage-inspired bedrooms to spacious suites featuring four-poster beds, parkland or garden views, and elegant period details. Interiors cleverly mix modern comfort with the building’s stately past, so expect both plush finishes and nods to aristocratic charm. Guests on a gourmet break will find the hotel well equipped for relaxation, whether unwinding after dinner in inviting lounges or taking breakfast overlooking manicured grounds.

Retreat

Swinton Park guests can immerse themselves in vast outdoor spaces—200 acres of parkland, formal gardens, and walking trails lead directly from the hotel. The Swinton Country Club and Spa offers indoor and outdoor pools, thermal experiences, and tranquil relaxation zones if you’re in need of pampering. Fishing, golf and falconry are among more active pursuits on the estate. The property is perfectly located to explore the Yorkshire Dales, with the characterful towns of Masham (less than 2 miles/5 minutes) and Ripon (11 miles/25 minutes) both within easy reach by car. A short drive brings guests to scenic trails, heritage attractions, and some of England’s finest rural vistas, making this an exceptional base for a refined yet restful short break.