The Inn at Whitewell 2nd June 2011

Situated on Her Majesty's Duchy of Lancaster estate, the Inn at Whitewell nestles in the beautiful Trough of Bowland and boasts stunning views across the Lancashire countryside.

Built in the 1300's as a manor house for the keeper of the royal forests it has managed to retain a warm family friendly feel. In the 1700's it became an inn for those travelling to and from Lancaster, the travellers may be few and far between but it does host many visitors seeking out it's renowed historical charm. It can be described as quirky most definitely, over the top it most certainly is not.



The River Hodder



The main entrance hall boasts a huge log fire, that in winter would make the ideal companion for any frosty walker looking for some hearty fayre. With stone slab flooring, old wooden furniture and low lying beams it's history encompasses every inch of the building which you can feel as you wander from one room to another. The outside of the building is just as breath taking as it's interior, as you meander along the winding and very steep roads it almost appears as if out of nowhere, set back from road slightly it has it's very own medieval church. At the rear of the building you are greeted with sublime views across the hills of Lancashire, with lush rolling green hills that are dotted with ewes and their lambs. The well stocked River Hodder meanders through the grounds and you are even invited, or challenged, to take a trip across the river by using the stepping stones, but be careful not to slip!

I had the honour to visit the Inn on a beautiful sunny evening to watch a performance of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing. The play was performed in the courtyard by a local amateur group of actors who succeeded in putting on a witty and enjoyable performance. It was not without it's issues, props getting caught on costumes, actresses nearly slipping over and a few fluffed lines. But despite this it was a well received production by the packed out marquee.

It's easy to see why people travel from all corners of the north-west to visit the Inn at Whitewell, with a wonderful atmosphere, excellent food and breath taking views, it is the ideal hideaway for anyone wanting escape the fast pace of everyday life.