FOUR pubs just up the M6 from Warrington have made the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK list, ranked by Estrella Damm.
These pubs serve outstanding food and are all in beautiful settings, perfect for an evening out or weekend away.
Some of the pubs have made it into the top five, meaning they are well worth a visit.
Here are the four Lancashire pubs that made the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list.
Best gastropubs in Lancashire
Parkers Arms
Location: Hall Gate Hill, Newton-in-Bowland, Lancashire, BB7 3DY
Tripadvisor rating: 4/5
Position on the list: 2
The Estrella Damm reviewers hailed this pub as "Possibly the most idyllic pub" and it is easy to see why.
The hotel and restaurant has been on the list for several years and was awarded Highest Climber after moving from 48th to 13th in 2017.
Last year, it came in fourth place, a real testament to chef-patron Stosie Madi and her business partner Kathy Smith.
Madi said: "The Parkers Arms is a country pub that welcomes everyone and their dog.
“It’s all about food and local sourcing and what grows around here and on our doorstep.
“Our menu is also ruled by what’s local. We made a decision a long time ago that, if it doesn’t grow in the area or within a 30-mile radius, apart from something like chocolate, vanilla or spices, we don’t want it on the menu.”
The pub serves cask ales and seasonal comfort food made from local produce.
Book via the website here.
Freemasons at Wiswell
Location: 9df, 8 Vicarage Fold, Wiswell, Clitheroe BB7 9DF
Tripadvisor rating:- 4
Position on the list: 5
This year the pub has pushed its way back into the top five but has maintained a top 10 position for several years.
Owner Steve Smith uses locally sourced ingredients to make experimental but traditional food.
Highlights on the menu include foie gras with beer vinegar, blackberry and smoked eel and roast loin and kofta of Nidderdale lamb with BBQ gem lettuce, miso aubergine, mint and yoghurt.
Smith and his wife, award-winning front-of-house manager Aga, often house summer barbecues, "chippy teas" and tasting evenings.
He said: “I’ve said many times that we want to be the best pub in the world, so we’ll see where this takes us.”
Book via the website here.
The White Swan at Fence
Location: 300 Wheatley Ln Rd, Fence, Burnley BB12 9QA
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Position on the list: 26
This may look like a typical village boozer, but this Michelin-starred gastropub definitely stands out from the crowd.
Backed by brewer Timothy Taylor's, this pub serves some of the best food in the region thanks to Gareth, Laura, Liv and genius Tom Parker in the kitchen.
Parker won the Great British Pub Awards Chef of the Year in 2019 and serves a range of dishes that change regularly.
You also do not have to break the bank at this place, with two courses for around £30 and three for £40.
Book via the website here.
The Higher Buck
Location: The Square, Waddington, Clitheroe BB7 3HZ
Tripadvisor rating:
Position on the list: 39
This fine-dining pub serves culinary classics and fresh takes on old favourites.
Menu highlights are treacle-roasted pig’s cheek, served with champ mash and roasted onion or spiced butternut squash and chestnut pie.
The poached pear salad with pickled beetroot and goats cheese also gets a special mention from Estrella Damm.
Most of the dishes are under £20 and there are also rooms available to stay in.
Book via the website here.
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