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, is now a firm 'must-visit' destination, largely thanks to its crowning glory: an award-winning gastropub hailed as one of the very best in the country.
A Culinary Destination Amidst Dramatic Fells
The journey to this charming settlement is an experience in itself, involving a traverse over the dramatic Waddington Fell. This route offers visitors spectacular, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, setting the stage for a visit that combines natural beauty with culinary excellence. The village itself, historically known as Newton-on-Hodder, is cradled by the flowing waters of the River Hodder.
At the heart of it all is The Parker's Arms, a Grade II Listed pub that has transformed from a derelict landmark into a beloved national favourite. The establishment takes its name from the neighbouring Parker family of Browsholme Hall, who served for generations as the 'Bowbearers of the Forest of Bowland'.
Award-Winning Excellence on the Plate
The pub's reputation is built on a formidable record of accolades. In 2023, it achieved the coveted Number 1 spot in the 'UK Top 50 Gastropubs' list and also secured 12th place in the National Restaurant Awards. Its culinary prowess is further proven by specific dish awards; its curried mutton pie won a Gold Award at the 2023 National British Pie Awards and scooped two top prizes at The Great Taste Awards the same year. Notably, the pub's classic Lancashire Hotpot has even been featured on BBC World Travel.
The menu focuses on delectable modern British cuisine, showcasing the finest local and regional produce, making it a premier attraction for both tourists and locals alike.
More Than Just a Pub: Newton's Historic Charms
While The Parker's Arms is the star attraction, the enchanting village of Newton-in-Bowland boasts other historical points of interest for visitors to explore. These include:
- Newton Hall: A two-storey limestone and sandstone house.
- Newton Chapel: A congregational chapel established 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.
Together, these landmarks and the world-class gastropub cement Newton-in-Bowland's status as a unique and compelling destination, offering a perfect blend of heritage, stunning landscapes, and award-winning food in the heart of rural Lancashire.
