With pretty villages, market towns and hamlets scattered amongst the fells; cultivated farmland falling away to open moorland as you head into the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Ribble Valley extends well beyond the river banks of its name sake.

One of the unique things about eating out in Lancashire is that you’re very likely to be tucking into produce that was grown up the road by a family who’ve produced it for generations, and this is never truer than when you’re in the Ribble Valley. It sometimes seems that the geography of the Ribble Valley has evolved over millions of years simply for our pleasure. Who would have thought that the rich salt deposits in the soil and moorland heather would give us such fantastic tasting Lancashire cheeses and succulent meats.

It’s hardly surprising then that this area should have become a hub for fine and quality dining, with head chefs and restaurateurs championing Lancashire providence to a national audience. At the very top is Northcote at Langho, with Chef Patron Nigel Haworth at the helm which has retained its Michelin Star since 1996. Not only does Nigel and his team make the most of local produce, they even grow most of their own fruit and vegetables in the restaurant’s kitchen garden.

Gourmands should also visit the award winning, and much raved about,  The Freemasons at Wiswell and The Assheton Arms at Downham – who all serve up distinctive menus based on locally grown, reared or caught produce.

At the other end of the scale there’s plenty of opportunity to meet the producers and growers face to face whether direct at farm shops or at annual events like the Clitheroe Food Festival and Royal Lancashire Show.

You can even follow a themed Lancashire Cheese Walk which explores the Lancashire Milk Fields around Chipping where some of the artisan cheese makers are based.

A walk or cycle out into the Forest of Bowland AONB will not only help to work up an appetite but you’ll also get to appreciate the striking heather moorland, much enjoyed by Lancashire’s cattle and sheep. Walk up to Ward Stone, one of the highest points in Lancashire, and you’re likely to see the hardy and native Lancashire Dalesbred Sheep grazing in your path.

Whilst the Ribble Valley isn’t just about the food and drink, the history and geology of the area make it very difficult to ignore the delicious treats being served up in this part of Lancashire.

Related

Northcote - Restaurant
Restaurant
Northcote - Restaurant

Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen creates visual, elegant and packed full of great flavours and textures.

The Assheton Arms
Pub/Inn
The Assheton Arms

This iconic Lancashire country inn is located in the picturesque village of Downham in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

Parkers Arms
Pub/Inn
Parkers Arms, Newton in Bowland

Multi award winning gastropub in an Area of Outstanding National Beauty serving excellent award winning modern British classics headed up by chef-patron Stosie Madie.

Freemasons at Wiswell
Pub/Inn
Freemasons at Wiswell

Set in this quaint Ribble Valley village, Freemasons at Wiswell provides a slice of country refinement with a twist of contemporary creativity and flair. The aim is to provide the ultimate gastronomic experience in a stylish pub setting that feels as relaxed as your own front room.

0 Comments

Comments

Nobody has commented on this post yet, why not send us your thoughts and be the first?

Leave a Reply