I stayed at the quintessential English pub with ‘dream’ bedrooms and insanely good food
CALLING all foodies – this might just be the country pub with the best food in Britain.
Here’s everything else you need to know about staying at The Freemasons at Wiswell.
Where is The Freemasons at Wiswell?
The beautiful country pub is in the heart of a pretty sandstone Lancashire village.
What is the hotel like?
Lots of nooks and crannies ensure you enjoy the buzz of a busy spot, but also have privacy to enjoy the company of family or friends.
The inn itself was once three cottages, one of which was a freemason’s lodge.
What are the rooms like?
The room we stayed in was in a property next door so we had no noise from the bar and enjoyed a peaceful sleep in the countryside.
Our room – Mr Hare – boasted a super king bed, and a stunning rolltop bath on a mezzanine floor.
Luxury touches included fluffy towels and dressing gowns as well as a Nespresso coffee machine and premium, handmade bath and body products.
“My dream bedroom”, said my wife.
Rooms start from £125. See freemasonsatwiswell.com.
What is there to eat and drink at the hotel?
The kitchen is led by executive chef Michael Shaw who has worked for some of Britain’s best known chefs including Gordon Ramsay and Raymond Blanc.
We visited on a Thursday so Mike popped out of the kitchen and encouraged us to enjoy a six-course tasting menu (£85pp).
English asparagus, cornish crab, stuffed mushrooms, glazed duck and salted white chocolate.
Andrew, our host, allowed us to choose some wine, before choosing us a better bottle of red. An a la carte menu is also available.
The following morning we enjoyed a three-course breakfast – fresh baked pastries, smoked salmon and cured meats and a delicious cooked breakfast.
Even if not staying at the hotel, the Freemasons is a lovely place for a pint, or a celebratory meal. Sunday lunch (£39.50 for two courses) looks good too.
What else is there to do there?
Chocolate box Wiswell is lovely to stroll around before or after a meal.
A few minute’s drive away is the popular village of Whalley which features lovely little shops, wine bars and traditional pubs.
We got into the car and drove 15 minutes to nearby Barley and spent a lovely couple of hours walking up 557-metre Pendle Hill, famous as the spot where ten people were hanged during the 1612 Pendle Witch trials.
Is it family friendly?
For families, it is advisable to get in contact to discuss the needs of your stay so there’s plenty of room for everyone.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
Freemasons at Wiswell offers disabled access rooms on the ground floor.