Review: Parkers Arms – an idyllic gastropub set in stunning countryside
Sometimes, a pub just ticks every box – and the Parkers Arms in Lancashire is one of those pubs. An idyllic rural country inn surrounded by rolling hills, this dog-friendly pub boasts breathtaking views, roaring fires, hospitality that’s second-to-none, and some of the finest pub food in the country. It’s no surprise that in 2023 it took the top spot in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list, and retained a top 10 position in 2024.
Chef-patron Stosie Madi and her business partner Kathy Smith took on the Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland in 2007, and have grown it into a destination for diners looking for top quality, locally sourced, and lovingly-prepared dishes. As well as having a loyal local following, it attracts visitors from across the country, and the location also offers some wonderful walks in the stunning surrounding countryside.
The accolades for the Parkers Arms – and there are many – are well-deserved. In 2023, the venue won Gastropub of the Year at the National Restaurant Awards, has been named as one of the best local restaurants in the Good Food Guide, and is included in the SquareMeal Top 100 UK restaurants list. But don’t expect any pretension here; the Parkers Arms is still a proper country pub, and offers the warmest of welcomes to everyone.
Locally sourced seasonal dishes and perfect pies
When it comes to food, the Parkers Arms is perhaps most famous for its pies. They’ve been featured on TV, in the Hairy Bikers Go North, and the curried mutton pie with mutton fat pastry won a gold award at the British Pie Awards 2023. As well as a meat option with rich gravy, vegetarian pies might include the likes of a deeply comforting layered creamed potato and Lancashire cheese pie in all-butter rough puff pastry, with accompaniments such as creamy mash, crisp golden fries, and seasonal vegetables.
But there’s so much more than pies. An ever-changing three-course seasonal menu always features a flawless selection of modern British dishes using the finest regional produce, whether it’s Bowland outdoor-reared pork, Burholme Farm lamb, Meanley Estate venison, 60-day Bowland beef fillet, wild game, or Morecambe Bay fish served charcoal-grilled. Sides come as standard, so there’s no need to order extras, while puddings might feature Basque-style cheesecake with seasonal fruit, or a selection of regional cheeses.
And it’s not all about the food. This country pub also serves local cask ales, draught lagers, and an affordable wine list, as well as a series of exceptional bar snacks; think addictively salty crisp potato skins, or hearty black pudding sausage rolls with rich buttery pastry.
A dog-friendly country pub with great walks nearby
With an enviable location straddling the Forest of Bowland and Ribble Valley, the Parkers Arms makes a welcome retreat for walkers looking to refuel with some top-notch food and drink. And four-legged friends are always welcome, too.
The Forest of Bowland is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re walking, trail running, or cycling. A 300 square mile rural oasis, there’s plenty to explore, and lots of opportunity to work up an appetite.
And there’s no better place to bring that appetite than the Parkers Arms. With a beautiful beer garden in warmer months, and cosy roaring fires when it’s cold, there’s no bad time of year to visit this gem of a country inn. The Parkers Arms is all about flying the flag for Lancashire, and is a must-visit for walkers looking for the heartiest gastropub food that really will make your heart sing.
Parkers Arms, Hall Gate Hill, Newton-In-Bowland, Nr Clitheroe BB7 3DY, parkersarms.co.uk.
