Lancashire gastropubs dominate national awards

Lancashire chefs have triumphed at the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropub Awards, with five listed establishments making Lancashire the best performing county in the competition.

Freemason’s at Wiswell, run by chef proprietor Steven Smith, rose two places to 4th position, while Parkersarms in Newton in Bowland became the list’s highest climber, climbing 35 places from 48 to 13. Three Lancashire establishments entered this year’s top 50; The Inn at Whitewell at 21, The Assheton Arms at 22, and The White Swan at Fence at 48.

Ruth Connor, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “Lancashire produce is amongst the finest in the country, combine that with some of the most talented and skillful chefs around and it is no surprise at all that Lancashire is the best represented county, in these prestigious awards.

"Our congratulations to the teams at Freemason’s, Parkersarms, Inn at Whitewell, The Assheton Arms and The White Swan on their individual success and for their dedication and commitment to raising Lancashire’s profile as a must-visit foodie destination.

“We’re proud to work with these and many other talented chefs, restaurateurs and publicans who together help attract over 64 million visitors every year to Lancashire. Whether it’s a rewarding lunch at the end of a country walk or dinner as part of a special gastro weekend break, Lancashire is hard to beat for quality locally sourced food, inspirational chefs and stunning locations, and these latest awards have duly recognised some of our very best.”

Speaking about his win, Steven Smith from the Freemason’s at Wiswell said; “It’s always an honour to be voted for by your peers and we’re delighted to not only have kept our place in the top 10 but to have moved up to fourth position. We believe we’ve created something really special at The Freemasons and it’s great to get recognition for all the hard work the team does day in day out. It’s also great to see a number of other Lancashire pubs on the list, helping us to fly the flag for the region!”

Joycelyn Neve, managing director of the Seafood Pub Company, said: "We are delighted to be in the Top 50 Gastropubs. The result is not only testament to the excellent work of the team at The Assheton Arms, but it also shines a light on the many brilliant options available in Lancashire making it the perfect foodie destination."

"We are incredibly fortunate to work in one of the UK's most picturesque locations, and are pleased to be able to offer food, drinks and accommodation to match." Stosie Madi, chef-patron of Parkersarms, said: “What a ten-year anniversary present! We are delighted that our industry colleagues appreciate what we do at Parkersarms. The Top 50 Gastropubs is one of the most prestigious industry awards for what we do and we are proud to be listed four years running.”