Nestled alongside a bubbling brook, Waddington stands out as one of the most picturesque villages in Ribble Valley, boasting three pubs, among which The Higher Buck offers a delightful menu and comfortable lodgings for an overnight stay.
Nestled in the heart of Lancashire, England, the picturesque Ribble Valley is a haven for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its natural beauty, the valley merges into the Forest of Bowland, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
One of the highlights of the region is the vibrant food scene, with a variety of establishments offering unique dining experiences. Bowland Brewery, located in the Holmes Mill development in Clitheroe, invites visitors to embark on a tour of the brewing process, followed by a tutored tasting of three third-pints for £20 per person. The brewery is famous for its beers such as the classic, citrusy pale Hen Harrier and the Bowland Bumble, made with honey from nearby beehives.
For those seeking a fine-dining experience, The Freemasons at Wiswell near Whalley offers a tasting menu and a chef's table, alongside four stylish bedrooms for those staying over. Chef Steven Smith is known for his creative dishes, such as prawn mousse-filled sea bass with Thai mussel curry. The pub also serves traditional Sunday roasts, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Higher Buck, Waddington, is another pub that combines tradition with innovation. With seven handsome, well-maintained bedrooms and a crowd-pleasing menu, it's an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. Chef Michael Heathcote is renowned for his rigour in the kitchen, and dishes like cheddar soufflé with apple chutney and the Buck's sensational steamed steak and ale pudding are firm favourites.
If Italian cuisine is more your style, La Locanda in Gisburn serves authentic dishes using local meats, game, dairy, and vegetables.
The Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland holds the prestigious title of No. 1 on the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK list in 2023. Known for its gutsy Lancastrian cooking, particularly its pies, the restaurant's chef, Stosie Madi, often creates deft and light dishes with a French-Lebanese influence.
The Ribble Valley is also home to local food producers such as cheesemaker Mrs Kirkham's, which enjoys national recognition.
For those seeking a comfortable farmhouse-style space and a seasonal menu, The Inn at Whitewell near Dunsop Bridge is the perfect choice.
Lastly, Northcote, a Michelin-star restaurant and boutique hotel in Langho, is the valley's benchmark dining destination. Constantly evolving, it hosts events like cookery schools and Obsession, an annual international guest chef event.
Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Ribble Valley offers a wealth of experiences to delight every palate and rejuvenate the soul.
