Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Upper Esk Valley, amidst the rolling heather of the North Yorkshire Moors, The Downe Arms has been a welcoming haven for centuries. Here, time slows, Yorkshire warmth greets every guest, and the village’s rich history is woven into every stone.

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The Downe Arms began its life in the early 18th century as three humble stone cottages, built from the very sandstone that defines Castleton. These cottages were later joined and transformed into a coaching inn, providing rest and refreshment to travellers along the busy York-to-Stockton route. Its hand-tooled stonework, pantiled roof, and gabled chimneys stand as enduring symbols of its heritage.

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Castleton itself is steeped in stories. In 1772, the village welcomed John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, commemorated today by a sundial on Primrose Hill in the High Street. In 1935, locals discovered the Danby Hand of Glory, a severed hand hidden in the wall of a thatched cottage — now preserved and on display at the Whitby Museum.

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Through centuries of change, The Downe Arms has remained a steadfast gathering place for villagers and visitors alike. Today, it continues to embody the best of Yorkshire hospitality, community spirit, and family values, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels at home.

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The Downe Arms isn’t just a pub — it’s part of Castleton’s living history, and its story continues to grow with each new visitor who walks through its doors.