The story
In a magnificent Jacobean mansion on Minster Road, The Old Deanery has become one of Yorkshire’s most exciting restaurant destinations. Since November 2023, when owners Rebecca and Chris Layton brought renowned chef Adam Jackson into the team, the property has been reborn as a “restaurant with rooms” that blends city-centre convenience with country-house grandeur.
The restaurant holds both 3 AA Rosettes and a Michelin Recommended distinction, a recognition earned for the precision and artistry of Jackson’s cooking. His approach is rooted in the finest seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, presented through a signature tasting menu that unfolds across the historic building. Each course is thoughtfully paired with a different richly storied space — a guided tour of the house becomes part of the meal, turning dinner into an immersive journey through both history and flavour.
The cuisine is Modern British, with Jackson’s dishes celebrating local produce and refined technique. The experience extends beyond dinner: guests staying overnight wake to an indulgent homemade breakfast banquet that continues the culinary thread.
The Old Deanery is open Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch, afternoon tea, evening tasting menus, and Sunday lunch served on their respective days. On Wednesdays, the lounges and garden are open for drinks and hotel stays. The property also offers 11 individually styled bedrooms, with views of the garden or the striking Ripon Cathedral.
It is a place where a great meal is matched by a sense of place — and where the kitchen’s ambition is backed by genuine skill and a historic setting that asks to be explored.
Recognition
Ambience
Location