Nestled in the charming village of West Tanfield, The Bruce Arms expertly marries the cozy atmosphere of an English countryside pub with the sophistication reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. The welcoming owner and warm decor, featuring gingham tablecloths and flickering candles, create an inviting ambiance that encourages diners to linger. The menu, though succinct, showcases thoughtfully crafted dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, a testament to quality over quantity. Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional food and attentive service, with standout dishes like the duck terrine and homemade children's pasta that impress both adults and kids alike. Guests rave about the extensive wine selection and the delightful chocolate bomb, which is said to rival that of renowned establishments. Additionally, The Bruce Arms accommodates pets and families, ensuring that everyone feels at home. The friendly staff, complemented by the inviting decor and open fires, enhances the dining experience, making each visit a memorable one. With its reasonable pricing and unpretentious charm, The Bruce Arms is a culinary gem that visitors and locals alike are eager to return to. For anyone in search of a delightful meal, this restaurant promises an extraordinary dining experience worth repeated visits.
Amenities and More
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Free Wi-Fi
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Free breakfast
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Free parking
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Accessible
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Pool
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Air-conditioned
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Pet-friendly
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Kid-friendly
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Restaurant
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Airport shuttle
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Fitness center
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Bar
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Smoke-free
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Photos
Reviews For The Bruce Arms
Charlotte Rose Burdett-Melsom
May 1,2025
Stepping into the Bruce Arms felt like discovering the charm of an English countryside pub with the sophistication of a Parisian bistro—just a beautiful, warm, and inviting welcome from the loveliest owner. Gingham tablecloths, overflowing candles in old wine bottles - you can picture vibe - that perfect blend of cozy comfort, like dining in your own home with friends, but with the polish of a truly excellent restaurant and none of the work of course! The menu is small yet incredibly confident, with each dish thoughtfully explained, locally sourced and presented with care. Every plate felt so well crafted, and the selection of wines is the perfect complement. It’s clear that quality takes precedence here, with every detail handled effortlessly. We had the freshest seafood which was utterly delicious and even the children’s pasta was completely homemade and presented so beautifully. This has been one of our best finds since moving from London to Yorkshire. It offers that rare balance of relaxed and unpretentious ambiance, perfect service and delicious food that just makes you want to linger all evening by the fire! My only wish would have been for a little more curated music perhaps a Miles Davis kinda vibe, now that would have just been heaven. A truly special dining experience—we cannot wait to go back for a child free evening!
G Yeo
Apr 24,2025
I didn’t use the rooms. It was a stopover on my way back from Scotland to have Sunday lunch. Amazing food, service from the owners. He explained in details where their cheese came from when cheese board was served and where the wines and spirit were from so I can appreciate the efforts of locally sourced, distinguished sources. Reasonable priced and their chocolate bomb is even better than one famous restaurant’s chocolate bomb I tried. Definitely make this my next trip stopover again. Booking is advised. It is a very busy place. They do kids menu or any adult dishes at kid portion.
Adam Beagin
Apr 22,2025
We stayed at a campsite close by for the weekend, and came for dinner on Friday and it was amazing we had to go back on Saturday and have another meal, both times the food was great and the service was fantastic. Our dogs were also made to feel very welcome and given water. Love the fact it also seemed like a local pub that made us tourists very welcome, we will definitely come again next Time we are in the area, love the fact the menus were dated looks like alot of effort goes into the menu to change the offerings. If you are in the area definitely worth dropping in to this pub which had a French style feel and beautiful courtyard.
Margaret Ward
Apr 21,2025
Visited the Bruce Arms today at lunchtime with a friend and dogs. The food us really lovely. Duck terrine with celeriac and toast to start and Spinach and cheese quiche, homemade slaw and new potatoes. Delicious. The staff are so very helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend. Thank you.
Gail
Apr 17,2025
Lovely open fires, fabulous menu and food was cooked to perfection. The waiting staff and bar staff were really attentive, friendly, funny and helpful, can't praise them enough( and no, am not related to any of them!) Prices were reasonable too.
Trip17174876202
Apr 3,2025
The host Matt was exceptional - nothing was too much trouble. He made us feel at home. As soon as we walked in, Matt attended to us, making us known to the Staff that we were guests &. that we would be dining and drinking there. The service ...
Essex_O
Mar 14,2025
We spent the night at this lovely pub during a recent visit to Masham. Both us and our dogs enjoyed our stay. Our room was very comfortable and clean. There was a good selection of ales served. We did not eat dinner at the pub but ...
Claire Morris
Feb 25,2025
We enjoyed the most fabulous Sunday dinner here earlier today. We, unfortunately, ended up messing them around by being terribly late, but upon our eventual arrival, they were incredibly accommodating. The food was nothing short of spectacular and the service was excellent. An incredibly enjoyable experience. We’ll definitely be back.
Reviews For The Bruce Arms