Latest News - Passing the Candle

Passing the Candle at The George

We’re delighted to introduce Claire and Greg as the new custodians of The George! Some of you will already know them as friendly faces at the bar — regular customers who’ve now taken the leap and have taken over in July.

Jackie and Ed have lovingly handed over the responsibility of “keeping the candle burning,” and while they’re stepping back from managing, they’re certainly not disappearing. Alongside George (yes, his basket is still firmly by the fireplace!), they remain a treasured part of Team George.

You’ll still find familiar faces behind the scenes too — Head Chef Sarah, along with Scott and Kate, are here to make sure The George continues to offer the warm hospitality and great food you know and love.

Claire and Greg are passionate about homecooked dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They’re committed to keeping The George a welcoming place to relax, refuel, and enjoy the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

A huge thank you to Ed, Jackie, and the whole team for making this transition so smooth. We’re excited for what’s ahead — and as a special tribute, here’s a poem from Ed and Jackie reflecting on their time at The George...

The Candle Inn

June the first of twenty thirteen the love affair started, our adventure had begun
Quick check of leccy and gas, given a Tupperware of keys and Barry had to run!
Business at The George was on its knees, the previous incumbents were largely to blame
Although the job was daunting, our role was clear – to re-ignite the candle flame

Nearly six months in on a Sunday, there was about to be a monumental change
John’s inaugural Sunday roast meant lovely smells being emitted from the range.
Tim and Heidi came with a litter of pups and a new relationship we were about to forge
You buy the Roast, we’ll buy the dog, and his name will be George of The George

Three years later business was good, but then our head chef just left on a whim
Jackie was back in the kitchen, stressed and with no choice but to sink or swim
Regulars Steve and Linda told us of an available local chef - nothing could be rarer
Famed for her onion rings and fab home cooking our rescue in the form of Sarah

In Twenty nineteen we reflected where we would like to spend the rest of our days
With The George always in striking distance Buckden would have to be the place
Since then, we have had arguably the best commute on every single day
Each morning walking George of The George to The George along the Dales way.

Lockdown brought angst and tension but ultimately opportunity for us fellas’
The yard got a revamp including picket fence and Mediterranean style umbrellas
Manning the gate with a temp. gun making folk feel safe their temperatures to see
Most were accommodating with just the occasional ‘don’t point that thing at me!’

Our ten-year plan turned into twelve and we decided to put the George up for sale
Time for new custodians we hoped seeking a life of opportunity in The Dales
‘Thanks for making the George our happy place’ the best possible expression of interest
Greg and Claire indicating clearly that in us and The George they would like to invest.

Today as we celebrate my birthday, our retirement, the end of owning but not hosting
To thank all our friends for your kind support we would like to do some toasting
Raise your glasses to Greg, Claire and The George to celebrate a new tide turning
We wish you as much fun and success as us whilst you keep the Candle burning