The Windmill Inn is a historic pub, dating back more than 460 years, in Leeds’ wealthiest and most desirable village.
House prices in one street are averaging at £1,791,000, the stone cottages and colossal country mansions in Linton remind you of old English tradition as if the leafy green area has remained in a bubble unaffected by mere trifles like the cost-of-living-crisis or whatever else unpleasant has been going on in the world.
Linton is located within Yorkshire's 'golden triangle' near Wetherby, a term made famous by estate agents describing the area between North Leeds, Harrogate and York. In the heart of the village sits The Windmill in Main Street, amid the narrow winding country lanes and hilly terrain.
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You’ll want to drive carefully as you snake through Linton. The lanes are exceedingly narrow, the bends sharp and the terrain is all on a steep incline. The village doesn’t make it easy for unaccustomed drivers seeking out the historic boozer.
But these elements I feel add a certain wonky charm to the upmarket village which is dripping in class and sophistication.
It had been a long while since I had visited The Windmill, and when I saw a pair of regulars sitting inside a small nook outside the stone-built pub. They seemed friendly and welcoming enough, and I could have sworn I'd seen one of them last time I'd visited, almost five years ago.
I’d forgotten how exquisite the interior of the tap room looked, as soon as you open the door you’re met with the thatched roof, gleaming brass bar and stone floors. It may have been about 27C outside but inside the temperature was cool and insulated, a safe haven from the sweltering weather.
The landlady took my order. She seemed like quite the character, firing off banter, putting me through my paces. I just about managed to keep up.
I was there for the full English breakfast which I noticed was priced very reasonably at £8.95 – only a few quid more dear than a large Wetherspoon breakfast. I was over the moon to learn it indeed included the full works and was generously portioned, two rashers of bacon, sausages, eggs, hash browns, slices of toast, beans, mushrooms, a tomato and a black pudding. At that price and it this venue, it seemed like a bargain.
I ventured into the beer garden which is located at the back, it was an ample-sized field. A tranquil setting with cushioned benches, park tables and dining tables to choose from, all with parasols. I chose a dining table on the stone veranda which overlooked the garden.
When my cappuccino with hazelnut syrup arrived, it was frothy and rich with flavour. I had such a pleasant time sitting out there in the mid-morning glow. There were only a couple of other diners when I was there - which was ideal, I like the peace and quiet. The hot drink came with a little biscuit, a nice touch.
I was impressed by the breakfast. I often judge the quality of the breakfast on the quality of the sausages as I feel like these can have the most discrepancy. These were plump juicy Cumberland sausages, the rich taste of pepper and herbs paired perfectly with the melt in your mouth tender meat.
The bread was wholemeal with seeds, which added a touch of class and the egg burst with a lovely runny yolk. The rashers of bacon had a vibrant golden glaze and were perfectly crisp. To top it all off, the black pudding was cooked exquisitely.
I had a fantastic experience and hope to visit again in the near future to sample items from their dinner menu. Judging from the breakfast offering, the food is of high quality, reasonably priced and generously portioned.
The bill
- Cappuccino with hazelnut syrup - £2.60
- Full English breakfast - £8.95
Total: £11.55
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