Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Thirsk is a small market town in the Hambleton district of North Yorkshire, England. The local travel links are located a mile from the town centre to Thirsk railway station and 20 miles to Teesside Intrnational Airport. Also, the main road running through the town is the A61, connecting Thirsk to Ripon. The town has a population of 4,703 according to the 2001 Cencus.

Thirsk is a popular tourist destination attracting visitors, especially with Thirsk Racecourse and the North York Moors.

The town is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1089 as Tresche, derived from the Viking (Old Norse) word þresk meaning "marsh". It is surrounded by a number of villages also having names of Danish origin, such as Thirlby, Boltby, Borrowby and Sowerby (the -by suffix meaning village or farmstead).

Thirsk is built around a large medieval market square, which still hosts an open-air market each Monday and Saturday. Thirsk possesses a museum and the 15th century church of St Marys.

Thirsk's chief modern claim to fame is as the home of the veterinary surgeon and author James Herriot, although it was renamed "Darrowby" in the books. The veterinary practice at 23 Kirkgate, in which he was a partner along with Donald Sinclair (Siegfried Farnon in the books) now houses a museum dedicated to his life and works, The World of James Herriot.

Oswalds Restaurant with Rooms, North Yorkshire

Oswalds Restaurant with Rooms is Thirsk's finest hotel dining facility. Comprising 16 individually designed French style rooms in Executive and Superior 4 star ratings, the accomodation and cuisine ensure a memorable stay in this secluded and friendly North Yorkshire setting.

We have been recognised with formal accreditation by the Tourist Board as one of very few 4 Star Restaurant with Rooms, and were winners of the local Flavours of Hambleton Award in 2005 and 2006. The menu is modern British/Continental with signature dishes such as fresh Queen Scallops in Gruyere. Why not try our celebrated Beef Wellington ? If you fancy a really amazing treat how about an Assiete of Desserts?

The rooms have since been refurbished and increased to 16 with 5 completely new suites. We welcome enquiries for all types of events including conferences, weddings and parties.