With my love of all things Bronte, we now visit Haworth at least three times a year.  As a child I used to stay at the Black Bull Hotel, famous for its association with Branwell Bronte. However, now that is no longer possible and thus over the years we have sampled a great deal of guest houses and hotels in Haworth.

The one that we return to again and again is The Old Registry, located at the bottom and slightly flatter part of the steep Main Street. My husband originally booked us into here several years ago as a birthday treat.

As its name suggests, the hotel was once used as a registry office and as soon as you step inside, you feel as though you are stepping back in time. The Hotel is decorated in a quirky manner with old photographs, prints and paintings along with commercial signs and unusual objets d’art. The eclectic mix really shouldn’t work and yet surprisingly it does. You almost feel as though you should be wearing a crinoline and sweeping skirts as you walk through the hallway.

There are eight different themed bedrooms. We have stayed in the Memories room, the Tudor room and this time we stayed in The Secret Garden. Most of the rooms have luxury four poster beds. The Secret Garden has a William Morris style theme with its exquisite drapes and curtains. The four poster bed has intricate carvings inlaid into it. I have to say that as I suffer from a bad back, the beds at the hotel are always incredibly firm and comfortable. That is a huge plus in my book.  In this age of faceless, sanitised hotels and huge corporate chains, it is so refreshing to find something different and unique that celebrates bygone eras. There are still modern touches to make your stay comfortable such as free wi-fi, hairdryers, fans and some rooms have indulgent, whirlpool baths.

Service is exceptional throughout the hotel. We usually stay for dinner but after having eaten a cream tea earlier, we were far too full to eat dinner.  It was a shame as the restaurant is exceptional quality with a good choice of locally sourced produce. I love the ambiance of the dining room with its deep red walls, glittering chandeliers and twinkling fairy lights. The setting is so romantic and they are able to cater for both couples and larger groups.

Mains include neck of lamb filet, salmon in cream and white wine sauce, duck beast, pork tenderloin, blade of beef  as well as vegetarian options and options for those on a special diet. All of the food is cooked fresh to order and there is also a set menu that runs from Monday to Friday.  Prices are mid-range with main courses between £15-£20. There is a comprehensive wine list and again prices are mid-range with the option to drink by the glass rather than the bottle.

Service at dinner is again first rate. The waiting staff are well-informed and go out of their way to ensure that your every whim is catered for. All of this makes for an outstanding restaurant.  The price of room includes breakfast. We always opt for their Yorkshire breakfast which includes black pudding, sauages and bacon and your choice of eggs. This is a great way to end your stay and sets you up for the return journey home.

Prices for rooms vary depending on which day you stay and what time of year it is but usually rates are between £80 and £115 per night. I think this is superb value for money. They also do an amazing deal in January of ‘Stay and Dine for £99’. This includes three course set menu, breakfast and an overnight stay and is available Mon-Fri.

I have no hesitation in recommending The Old Registry to anyone who is visiting or staying in Haworth. I know you will enjoy your stay.