The Inn at Whitewell

The Shooting Gazette Good Hotel Guide 2007

THE INN AT WHITEWELL began life in the 1400s as the royal deer keeper’s cottage. Situated at the entrance to the forest of Bowland, it later became the perfect meeting point for traders heading over the moors on their route to Lancaster.

Despite the Whitewell’s evolution, it has stuck firm to its roots as a country inn. Although it recently underwent a huge expansion project, the rural charm has remained, as have the split cane rods, stuffed foxes and abundant hunting prints adorning the bar and dining room.

The permanent presence of a terrier, labrador or spaniel gives drinkers something else to negotiate. During the season these dogs (which are welcome to stay in the bedrooms) are accompanied by jovial owners from all corners of the UK who will have spent their day on one of literally hundreds of shoots close by.

The Dunsop Bridge shoot, one of the finest in the country, is minutes away. Passed that are the grouse moors of Abbeystead and Brennand, which his Grace the Duke of Westminster works tirelessly on to boost the grouse population in the area.

Many rural pubs claim to be, but few genuinely are, Meccas for fieldsports enthusiasts. In the winter, tweed is as regular in the bar as pheasant, partridge and woodcock are on the menu.

In the summer, breeks are swapped for waders and salmon and grouse adorn the menu. If a night in one of 23 luxury rooms is what you’re after, or just a peaceful pint, you are sure to make friends and enjoy yourself in what has become a true jewel of Lancashire.


Tel. 01200 448222
www.innatwhitewell.com