Ilkley Rocks

…to Tubby’s. The last night was very emotional, lots of hugs from Robin and the staff, lots of insults flying. And, contrary to my previous claims, it is already sold for the full asking price. Thanks for the many memories, and for being the first place/people to make us truly welcome in Ilkley.

…and also to Steps. I’ve never been a fan, but for the main man to lose his restaurant because a business ‘partner’ in another venture ran off with the cash, leaving both businesses broke, is, well, not very nice to say the least. The place has already been stripped, and is on the market for considerably less than the Tubster’s.

We know two young(ish) gentlemen who might hopefully be interested.

My home from home, Tubby Wadlow’s, is to close on xmas Eve. The owner, Luther (whose money comes from careful marriage), has decided to sell up. It’s been on the cards for much of this year, with Robin and Toby looking to buy him out (basically a matter of fixtures n fittings and goodwill as it’s them that have built the revenue). When the offered price came in at £130,000 (remember this doesn’t include the property itself), he was informed it was not going to be met.

So farewell to the best of Ilkley’s bistros, a venue for many happy after-hours drinking sessions, much cynical abuse from the bar staff, etc., etc.

It’ll be on the market next year sometime, so might be resurrected. Whether Luther’ll get the 130K is rather more doubtful in the current climate. But, then, as I say, he didn’t make his money himself, so his business knowledge is a bit limited.

The ma-in-law gave me the Good Pub Guide 2006 for xmas. The only pub it mentions in Ilkley (in the write-in section rather than the main review) is The Cow and Calf. Three or four people give it good reviews for good, consistent food, friendly service, etc.

It makes me think less of the rest of the reviews. Somehow I’d put T C nC near the bottom of the pubs available in Ilkers (certainly below Bar T’at, The Yard and The Midland anyway).