About This Pub
Ah, The Empress – it's one of those classic Harrogate pubs that you stumble upon and think, 'Now that's a proper local gem.' Nestled near the Stray with its beautiful parkland and a beer garden out back, it's got this lovely blend of old-school charm and a bit of modern polish inside, perfect for catching the game on the big screens or having a laugh over a quiz night. The food's a real highlight; their pies and Sunday carvery are just brilliant, and at fair prices too, making it ideal for a relaxed meal with friends. Plus, being dog-friendly adds a nice touch if you're out for a walk. On the flip side, though, service isn't always spot on – I've chatted with a few who had run-ins with staff being a bit short or not quite nailing the basics, like getting a pint poured properly without it turning into a foam fiasco. And let's not forget, it can get busy, leading to awkward seating or tables that feel a bit out of the way, and some prices might make you pause for thought. Overall, it's a solid choice for a pint and a bite, but I'd say go in with realistic expectations and maybe book ahead to avoid any disappointments – it's got that warm pub heart, but like any place, it's not flawless.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
The food is absolutely spot on – think legendary pies and a cracking Sunday carvery that hits the spot every time, with great value for money too.
-
It's got that perfect mix of traditional pub charm and modern vibes, complete with a lovely beer garden, outside seating, and even a function room for events like birthdays or quizzes.
-
Dog-friendly atmosphere makes it a winner for those who like to bring their furry mates along, and they've got big screens for sports, plus games like pool and darts to keep things lively.
-
Staff can be really welcoming and attentive, creating a warm, friendly feel that makes you want to linger over a pint of cask ale or a gin.
Cons
-
Service can be hit or miss; I've heard tales of staff being a bit abrupt or not quite getting things right, like with pouring a proper pint without all that foam.
-
Seating might feel a tad awkward at times, especially if you're stuck facing a wall or in the path of foot traffic, which can put a damper on the experience.
-
Prices are on the moderate side, but some bits like the Sunday carvery might feel a touch steep, and it can get packed, making it tricky to snag a table without booking ahead.
-
Recent vibes haven't been as upbeat, with a few folks mentioning off days that leave you wondering if it's worth the visit just then.
Contact Information
10 Church Square, Harrogate HG1 4SP
+441423567629
Pub
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
Asked for my bitter to be poured right so it wasnt 90% head. Was told ‘not to tell her how do her job’ then she proceeded to over fill the same
Pint whilst being incredibly awkward and purposefully abrasive. Wont be drinking here again.
What an amazing place we found today, the food was so delicious and really good prices, the staff were amazing, the pub it’s self are with big windows that let the nice day light in, in the ladies bathroom they have baby changing tables which is amazing and bags there you can put used diapers, the music is so good as well, for sure it’s will be our regulars when we in Uk
Lovely food for the price, nice little pub. Did get seated a bit awkwardly facing a wall in the path of the men's loo but it was still a nice meal for 2. Good music too compared to other places in Harrogate.
We stopped here for a Sunday carvery whilst out shopping. We were lucky enough to get a table as a walk in, all of the tables were reserved a number of times over the course of the day.
The food was good but the price was a little on the high side. You are only limited on meat and Yorkshire puddings, the rest of the meal you just help yourself too.
There was a nice relaxed atmosphere in the pub and a good selection of beverages on offer.
Back again for Christmas Party great venue we where here last in 2019 would have been in 2020 but!
Very dog friendly cannot recommend The Empress Highly enough they really pull the stops out this year beautifully decorated upstairs with tasteful Christmas decorations and great window winter scenes.
Thank You.
Nearby Pubs - Perfect Pub Crawl
Discover the 5 closest pubs to this location for an ideal pub crawl experience.
17 Devonshire Pl, Harrogate HG1 4AA
94/100
0.4mi
10 Devonshire Pl, Harrogate HG1 4AA
91/100
0.4mi
57 Knaresborough Rd, Harrogate HG2 7LT
88/100
0.6mi
9 Bower St, Harrogate HG1 5BQ
94/100
0.9mi
Harrogate Station, Station Parade, Harrogate HG1 1TE
92/100
1.0mi