A warm welcome to The Box Tree
Since 1962, The Box Tree has been part of Ilkley’s culinary story, with a remarkable history that has seen it become one of the North’s most celebrated restaurants. Today, it enters a new chapter, thoughtfully reimagined while respecting the legacy that came before.
Inspired by the surrounding Yorkshire moorland, the newly renovated restaurant and bar bring a contemporary sense of place to this historic setting. In the kitchen, Chef Patron, Brayden Davies brings his own perspective, blending his Australian roots with modern European training and global influences. Led by seasonality and creativity, his menus celebrate exceptional ingredients from trusted Yorkshire producers, across Britain and further afield.
Our menus
Our menus evolve with the seasons and the availability of the very best produce. The menus shown here are therefore a sample of the dishes you may experience during your visit.
Meet Chef Patron
Originally from Western Australia, Brayden Davies joined The Box Tree in early 2024, bringing with him experience from some of the UK’s most celebrated kitchens. His Australian roots remain an important part of his identity as a chef, combined with the modern European training and influences gathered throughout his career.
Brayden’s cooking is deeply personal, led by seasonality, creativity and exceptional ingredients. His approach brings together:
- His Australian heritage, with Australian ingredients and influences regularly finding their way onto the menu
- Modern European techniques and a precise, refined approach to cooking
- Exceptional produce from Yorkshire and beyond, working with local producers where their ingredients are right for the dish
- A love of open-fire cooking and bold, considered flavours
- Experience gained at The Raby Hunt, Northcote and alongside Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall
Now Chef Patron and part of The Box Tree’s ownership, Brayden is leading the restaurant into its next chapter, developing a style of cooking that is distinctly his own while building on The Box Tree’s remarkable culinary legacy.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
For dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, we offer our £95 tasting menu. Friday and Saturday lunch features a reduced tasting menu at £65 per person, while Sunday Lunch is £59 per person. Menus change regularly to reflect seasonal availability.
Due to the nature of our tasting menu and the significant use of dairy throughout our dishes, we’re unfortunately unable to offer vegan or fully dairy-free menus. We can accommodate most other dietary requirements with at least 24 hours’ notice; please let us know when booking.
Yes. Children aged 10 and over are welcome for dinner, and children aged 5 and over for lunch. We don’t offer a dedicated children’s menu, but where possible, dishes can be adapted for younger guests.
We have a smart casual dress code and simply ask that guests dress appropriately for the occasion.
Absolutely. You’re very welcome to join us for a drink in the bar before your reservation. We recommend arriving a little early if you’d like to make this part of your evening.
We don’t have private on-site parking, but the main town car park is conveniently located just behind the restaurant, off South Hawksworth Street. Ilkley train station is also around a five-minute walk away.
Yes, we accept American Express, alongside other major credit and debit cards.
Yes. Monetary gift vouchers are available to purchase online and can be sent digitally or by post. They’re valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and can be redeemed towards dining at The Box Tree.