The Tan Hill Inn, Britain’s highest pub, recently became a temporary haven for 29 people after a severe snowstorm swept through the Yorkshire Dales. Located approximately 65 miles north of Manchester, the pub sits at a staggering 1,732 feet above sea level, making it particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. On Saturday, January 4th, 23 guests and six staff members found themselves unexpectedly stranded when heavy snow and blizzard conditions made roads impassable.
A Weekend Turned Winter Wonderland
What began as a typical weekend quickly transformed into an unforgettable adventure. An amber warning for heavy snow had been issued, and the pub received notice that the main road would close at 10:30 p.m. local time. However, the storm’s intensity caught many off guard, leaving guests with no choice but to hunker down and wait out the blizzard. The unexpected turn of events led to a unique bonding experience for those snowed in.
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Guests at the Tan Hill Inn found themselves snowed in after a blizzard.
Making the Most of the Unexpected
Despite the isolation and disruption to their plans, the stranded guests and staff embraced the situation with remarkable positivity. Pub manager Nicole Hayes reported to the BBC that the group kept their spirits high by engaging in a variety of activities, including playing games, watching movies, singing, and dancing. The shared experience fostered a sense of camaraderie, turning strangers into friends. “It’s like one big family here at the moment,” Hayes told the BBC. “We’ve all swapped numbers, swapped life stories, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried, it’s been amazing.”
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Nicole Hayes, pub manager, and guest Paul Wright share a moment during the snowstorm.
A Snowman, Yorkshire Puddings, and Lasting Memories
The unique circumstances even allowed for some once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Hayes helped a guest visiting from Australia build his first snowman, a memory captured and shared on the Tan Hill Inn’s official Instagram account. The guest, Paul, recounted his experience, highlighting the staff’s hard work and hospitality, alongside the joys of experiencing traditional Yorkshire fare. He expressed his appreciation for the large Yorkshire puddings and the local Tan Hill bitter.
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Cars buried in snow at the Tan Hill Inn parking lot.
Not the First Snowstorm, Nor Likely the Last
The Tan Hill Inn’s remote location and high altitude make it susceptible to extreme weather. This wasn’t the first time the pub has weathered such a storm. In November 2021, 61 people were stranded for three days due to a blizzard that dumped three feet of snow, causing power outages and road closures. The resilience of the staff and the positive spirit of the guests demonstrate the unique character of this historic establishment. While the recent snowstorm created an unexpected detour for those visiting the Tan Hill Inn, it also provided a story of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity. The shared experience undoubtedly forged lasting memories for everyone involved, solidifying the Tan Hill Inn’s reputation as not just a pub, but a place where unforgettable stories are made. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, such events might become more frequent, reminding us of the power of nature and the importance of human connection.
