My Yorkshire: Julia Medforth, founder of Raisthorpe Manor

Julia Medforth is the founder of the North Yorkshire-based spirit producer, Raisthorpe Manor

Where do you live/where are you from?

I’m originally from Westow, a village bordering the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We are lucky enough to live and work at Wharram, deep in the Yorkshire Wolds – I haven’t moved far!

The farm is set within a steep sided valley formed during the Ice Age. We’re right on the Western edge of the rolling Wolds and our road end is the top of Garrowby Hill, an escarpment high above sea level from where we can look out over the Vale of York.

What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?

The Yorkshire Wolds are still an undiscovered gem with a charm all of their own. It’s an undulating landscape that has been celebrated by David Hockney who described the Wolds as “hidden, small, full of valleys… a lovely bit of England, not spoilt”.  

My favourite place to visit in the Wolds is Wharram Percy – one of the UK’s largest and best preserved deserted medieval villages which is just up the road from us and has a wonderful atmosphere.

What is still on your “to do” list in the region?

Along with a whole host of talented spirit producers, Yorkshire boasts the largest number of Michelin starred restaurants outside London. Work commitments mean that I have yet to visit them all but I’m keen to try The Black Swan at Oldstead and Tommy Banks’ newly opened Roots in York, about which I hear great things.

What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?

It has to be Sunday lunch with all the family gathered around the table at home. The homemade Yorkshire puds hot from the AGA are the star of the show and we even enjoy them for pudding – with an indulgent ice cream and a liberal application of our own 9ct Shimmering Toffee Caramel Vodka Liqueur – delicious!

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

I’m a Yorkshire woman through and through and we Yorkshire folk are known for our stoicism and dry sense of humour – especially after a drink of our award-winning gin!

Favourite piece of trivia about the region.

David Hockney’s series of works called Three Trees near Thixendale depicts a scene from our farm. The trees can be found just before the pond on the road between Thixendale and Burdale.

What is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?

It has to be David Hockney. As a proud Yorkshireman he is enthusiastic about the artistic qualities of the countryside all around us and where he grew up. He often painted Garrowby Hill, the highest point in the Wolds which is just up the road from the farm.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

In common with much of rural Yorkshire, connectivity in our little part of the county can be a nightmare. As a business, life would be so much simpler with a decent internet connection.

What is one thing you’d steal from Lancashire (or other UK regions) if you could?

The south’s transport system – physical connectivity can also be an issue out in the sticks and improved transport links would help us grow as a region.   

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

Absolutely nothing – from food and art and culture to sport and literature, we know we’re the best. It’s not known as God’s Own County for nothing!

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