The Fence Gate Inn

Kevin Berkins has run this handsome Lancashire boozer for 25 years, and before then he was a butcher for 20 – so, well established with fantastic meat. He’s won too many gongs to mention here, suffice to say he’s currently National Sausage Champion – and boy, are they good. Earthy, chock full of flavour: choose from organic pork with herbs, local beef with sun-dried tomatoes and chilli, or wild boar with apples soaked in calvados and honey, all served with a rich onion gravy and bubble & squeak. There’s more to tempt you from the bar menu, or if you want to push the boat out, the Topiary Brasserie, an altogether more waggish affair, is just across the hall. Char-grilled fillet of Bowland beef or oven roast chump of Pendle lamb will set you back a pretty penny, but you can be sure of the quality and provenance of the food.