The Plough in Wombleton, North Yorkshire, has been included in the Michelin Guide, less than a year after being taken over by Richard and Lindsey Johns. The couple, who took charge of the 16th-century inn in late 2023, have built a strong reputation for their seasonal menus and warm hospitality.
Chef Richard Johns focuses on fresh, local produce from across the north of England to create dishes that balance flavour and quality. Meanwhile, Lindsey oversees the front of house, ensuring every guest feels welcome. Their teamwork has also earned The Plough recognition in the Estrella Top 100 Gastro Pubs list and a “Good” rating in the Good Food Guide 2024.
The Michelin Guide praised the inn, saying: “Richard and Lindsey Johns are experienced operators in this part of the world. For their latest project, they’ve taken on this attractive 16th-century inn situated between the Howardian Hills and the North York Moors. There’s plenty of character to the place, from the beamed ceiling to the roaring fire for winter and beer garden for summer. Chef Richard offers hearty dishes that are classically and wholly enjoyable, like a generous pork chop cooked with evident skill. Lindsey looks after every table with a genuine warmth and personal touch.”
Richard said being included in the Michelin Guide is “amazing news” for their small team. “We’ve just tried to do our best to bring both the inn and its restaurant to life since we opened the doors in October 2023,” he said. “This is a real pat on the back for everyone’s hard work and effort.”
The Michelin Guide began in 1900 as a travel resource and has since grown into an internationally respected rating system for restaurants. Only 1206 restaurants in the UK are currently listed, making The Plough’s inclusion a significant achievement.
Lindsey said the team would continue to focus on quality and improvement. “We won’t let this change what we do,” she said. “We’ll keep striving to deliver menus for our guests to enjoy.”
The Plough’s place in the Michelin Guide adds to its growing reputation as a must-visit destination in Yorkshire.
