The Parkers Arms - Newton in Bowland

Why so long before posting a review of my favourite foodie pub? Lack of a photograph - I must have been so eager to get inside and order that I've neglected to get a snap of the pub. Anyway, that was sorted out and here we go.

Up until a couple of years ago, The Parkers Arms was an ok pub in a fantastic location. Fine for a quick pint and a sandwich if passing, but not worth a special trip due to its very rural location. It was then taken over by the owners of Weezos, who'd very quickly built up an excellent reputation in nearby Clitheroe. Fast-forward through a long period of refurbishment, and we have a pub that looks great, is in a lovely location, very friendly owners, and some of the best food you'll ever be served in a pub.

The food is the big draw at The Parkers Arms. I've yet to be served anything that wasn't top notch, and my only complaint is with the ever-changing menu, my latest favourite dish goes off the menu and I have to try something else. No great trial! Particular favourites have been the game pie, Lancashire hot pot, seafood sharing plate and the ploughmans lunch. I know - these just sound like bog-standard pub-grub, but the amount of care and detail put into them elevate these pub staples into outstanding meals. Virtually everthing is sourced locally, and very fresh. Sometimes this means things go off the menu, but this is much preferable to the usual pub practice of having a large freezer, an oven and a microwave.

This isn't a place to go if you're impatient - the food is cooked to order and during busy periods it may take a bit of time if you've ordered one of the more complicated dishes. My advice is to chill out, enjoy a Bowland Ale, and take pleasure in the food when it arrives. Those who do will be richly rewarded.