Radio presenter James Wilson's food and drink reviews

There's a great choice of food here. We called in on a ride up to Haweswater, and I must confess that the Black Swan is now my favourite pub in the area. On our last trip I chose Gammon, while she who would like to be obeyed picked Fish and Chips. My gammon was so tender you barely needed a knife to cut through it - but when Judith's fish arrived we both gasped; it was absolutely enormous! Quantity's OK, but it's really quality that counts for me.

We needn't have worried though, It was absolutely glorious. It was white, moist and flaky, with absolutely superb Black Sheep batter. And once again I suppose I must sound penny pinching if I say it was a little more than I would usually pay for fish and chips, but then the Black Swan is no chippie!

One thing you'll find on the menu is smaller or children's portions, so you needn't feel embarrassed if you just fancy a snack rather than a main meal. Fantastic food, fantastic venue - if you find yourself driving down the A685 just pull off when you see the sign for Ravenstonedale!

Sample items from the menu (March 2009): Prawn and Crayfish Cocktail £5.50; Mixed grill of local rump steak, gammon, lamb chop & sausage served with award winning black pudding, mushrooms, tomato, onion rings, chips & fried egg £15.95; a choice of desserts from less than £4.00