The Angel at Hetton

Michelin starred dining, in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

The Angel at Hetton is widely regarded as the UK’s original gastropub. The ancient inn has origins which date back to the 15th century, forming the basis of hundreds of years of delicious dining and drinking history. In recent years it has held the reputation of being the destination establishment, in one of the most exquisite corners of the North Yorkshire Dales. Famous for its food as well as its warm, welcoming atmosphere – it has maintained a strong following among locals as well as with customers from all over the world.

The Angel’s fortunes took an exciting turn in September 2018 with the arrival of new owners. At the helm is chef patron Michael Wignall. Michael and his wife Johanna have a vision to keep everything that the Angel was famous for; fantastic food, a warm welcome and a deep connection with the dramatic Yorkshire landscape – and make it outstanding.

Two Michelin-starred chef Michael Wignall has reimagined the pub’s offering and created a fabulous new menu. Future plans are to bring a brand-new fine dining restaurant, “Cove” to the mix, putting the Angel on every gourmet food lovers bucket list.

With a style that’s casual and contemporary, the new Angel is all about great food and great hospitality – and it aims to give people a relaxed experience no matter who they are or where they choose to dine, Angel or Cove.

Michael Wignall delivers food that wows on every plate. His ever-evolving style creates unique dishes full of flavour, underpinned by a contemporary, less formal approach to fine cuisine. Describing his food as ‘modern, technical and meaningful’, each element brings flavour or texture, enticing diners to experience new combinations and ingredients.

In October 2019, just 12 months after taking over, Michael Wignall and his team were awarded a Michelin star in the Michelin UK & Ireland Guide 2020. The Michelin star comes hot on the heels of the AA Hospitality Awards and saw the Angel receive four coveted rosettes for Michael’s cooking. The AA awards four rosettes to restaurants that “exhibit intense ambition, a passion for excellence, superb technical skills, and remarkable consistency” – something that Michael and the team, both front and back of house, strive for every day.