Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Lancashire's Forest of Bowland, a tiny village is making a colossal name for itself on the national food scene. Newton-in-Bowland, a picturesque hamlet in the Ribble Valley, has become a must-visit destination, primarily thanks to its award-winning gastropub, The Parker's Arms, which was named the best in the country.
A Culinary Destination Worth the Journey
The adventure to this charming spot is part of its allure. Visitors must traverse the dramatic Waddington Fell, a route offering spectacular views across the fells that is a paradise for walkers and photographers. The village itself, historically known as Newton-on-Hodder, is cradled by the landscape and boasts the River Hodder flowing through its heart.
However, the undisputed star of the show is The Parker's Arms. This Grade II Listed pub has transformed from a derelict building into a nationally celebrated dining destination. It specialises in exquisite modern British cuisine, crafted meticulously from the finest local and regional produce.
Accolades and Award-Winning Dishes
The pub's reputation is firmly backed by an impressive array of awards. In a landmark year, 2023, The Parker's Arms achieved the coveted number one spot in the 'UK Top 50 Gastropubs' list. It also secured 12th place in the National Restaurant Awards during the same period.
Its culinary prowess is evident in specific dishes that have garnered critical acclaim. The pub's curried mutton pie won a Gold Award at the 2023 National British Pie Awards and scooped two top prizes at The Great Taste Awards 2023. Furthermore, its signature Lancashire Hotpot has been featured on BBC World Travel, showcasing the pub's commitment to classic, elevated regional fare.
Historical Charm Beyond the Pub
While the gastropub is the main draw, Newton-in-Bowland offers more for those exploring its quiet lanes. The village features several historical buildings of note, including:
- Newton Hall, a two-storey limestone and sandstone house.
- Newton Chapel, a congregational chapel founded in 1696 and refurbished in 1878, which was sold in 2015.
- Newton Old School, a Grade II Listed sandstone building with a slate roof.
- Salisbury Hall, an early 18th-century pebbledashed sandstone house, also Grade II Listed.
- The Old Reading Room, a late 18th-century Grade II Listed building that once served as a library before alterations in 1830 and the removal of its top floor in the 1960s.
With its combination of dramatic natural beauty, profound historical character, and a world-class dining establishment at its core, Newton-in-Bowland has firmly earned its place as a essential stop for any traveller seeking an authentic and delicious slice of rural England.
