Lancashire gastropubs rank among UK's best

Three Lancashire gastropubs have ranked in the UK top 10 according to a new survey - with one establishment taking the top spot.

The Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs 2023 ranked The White Swan at Fence in seventh place, Freemason’s at Wiswell in fifth place and Parkers Arms in Newton-In-Bowland number one overall.

The Higher Buck in Waddington, also made this year’s Top 100 Gastropub list, coming in at 56th position.

The list is created from the votes of more than 100 hospitality industry professionals; from pub businesses, editors of media brands and food writers, geographically spread across the UK.

Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: "We’re so very proud, though not at all surprised, that Lancashire pubs have triumphed again at this year’s Gastropub Awards. Lancashire’s pubs boast some of the most talented chefs in the country and can be counted amongst the finest places to eat in the UK. 

"There’s no disputing that pubs continue to face many challenges, but the resilience of Lancashire’s top pubs is testament to their innovation, hard-work and dedication to providing the highest quality hospitality.

"Chefs Stosie Madi of Parkers Arms, Steven Smith of Freemasons and Tom Parker of the White Swan are all Taste Lancashire Ambassadors, who generously help us champion Lancashire’s food and drink producers to the wider world. We’re very grateful for their ongoing support and for their inspiration.

“We believe Lancashire is England’s tastiest county, with an abundance of expert producers, skilled manufacturers and suppliers who win awards and accolades that put Lancashire firmly on any food-lover’s map. It’s no wonder that one of the main reasons people visit Lancashire is for our world-class food, drink and hospitality.”