The Inn at Whitewell, Whitewell

One of those places that tries to be all things - pub, hotel, restuarant, wedding venue, vintners - and pretty much succeeds spectacularly at all of them. It's also a good place just for a drink, and sitting on the back patio supping a pint of Bowland Hen Harrier overlooking the magnificent scenery, I could just about swallow the �3.30 I'd just been charged. One of the Ribble Valley's true destination venues.

16 Jun 2010 06:36

The White Bull, Ribchester

Since being take over by new owners late in 2009, this has become a good pub for drinkers - up to 6 ales on the bar at any one time, in very good condition (pints of Moorhouse Premier and Copper Dragon Best Bitter are amongst the very best I've ever had here). Trouble is, on the last few visits I've made, it seems devoid of atmosphere - there's hardly anyone in, and the pub seems to be missing the crowds I remember it attracting when the emphasis was much more on food. Pity, as with a bit more life this could be a cracking pub.

16 Jun 2010 06:31

The Dog Inn, Whalley

Of the four very fine pubs at the centre of Whalley village, the Dog is defintely the best for the range of beers on offer. Six handpumps, serving an ever-changing mix of beers from (mainly North-Western) breweries. That said, on today's visit the range was slightly less adventurous than it has been of late - Copper Dragon Black Gold, Moorhouse Pride of Pendle, Grays Hunny Pot, Bank Top Old Slapper, and both Lions Roar and Treacle Stout from Ossett - but at �2.40 a pint, whatever strength the beer, who's complaining?

8 Jun 2010 13:34