Located in the stunning, remote landscape of Newton-in-Bowland, the Parkers Arms was famously brought back to life from a derelict state by Kathy and Stosie in 2007.
Today, it is a national landmark. It remains a true rural country inn—casual, elegant, and warm—where your four-legged friends are as welcome as the food critics who travel from London to dine here.
If you are a serious food lover, the Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland is non-negotiable. While the valley is full of great pubs, the Parkers is a global destination, having been crowned Number 1 in the UK Top 50 Gastropubs (2023). This is a place where “no-nonsense” Lancashire soul meets world-class culinary expertise.
The Experience: Rustic Lancashire Soul
The Parkers Arms doesn’t rely on white tablecloths or stiff formality. Instead, it offers a “rustic contemporary” vibe that is functional, unpretentious, and fiercely Lancastrian.
- The Atmosphere: Expect roaring fires, dining rooms with sweeping fells views, and a hospitality that feels like a genuine embrace.
- The Reputation: Beyond its #1 Gastropub ranking, it is a regular in the National Restaurant Awards and featured famously on the Hairy Bikers Go North.
See the Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in the Ribble Valley
Dine: The Art of the Perfect Pie (and Much More)
While the kitchen offers a full range of modern British dishes, they are perhaps most famous for their pastry work.
- Award-Winning Pies: Their Curried Mutton Pie is a National British Pie Awards Gold winner. It is legendary for its crisp, golden suet and deep, complex filling.
- Historic Revivals: Chef Stosie is known for researching and reviving lost Lancashire recipes, such as “Wet Nelly” (a rich, spiced fruit pudding) and their light-broth Lancashire Hotpot.
- Seasonal Focus: In summer, the focus shifts to day-boat fish charcoal-grilled to perfection; in winter, it’s all about hearty game and soul-warming stews.
While Northcote offers refined Michelin dining, the Parkers Arms provides the quintessential, award-winning gastropub experience.
Stay: A Haven in Bowland
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the “Parker’s Pal” experience, the inn offers cozy, unpretentious accommodation.
- The Rooms: Designed as a sanctuary for those exploring the Forest of Bowland, the rooms provide a comfortable, quiet base to sleep off a spectacular meal.
- The Location: You are in the heart of some of the UK’s most pristine walking country, far from the noise of the city.
Directory Quick-Look
- Vibe: Unpretentious excellence, fiercely local, and deeply welcoming.
- Best For: Serious foodies, pie aficionados, and hikers seeking a world-class reward.
- Key Feature: The multi-award-winning pies and its status as the UK’s former #1 Gastropub.
- Dog Friendly: Very! Four-legged friends are treated as guests.
- The Parkers Arms is the ultimate reward after completing one of our [Top Walks in the Forest of Bowland].
For more local accommodation and options see our ‘Where to Stay in the Ribble Valley‘ guide.
