The White Hart at Lydgate

Burning fires, old farm auction posters & deep red carpets give the White Hart a cosy, pubby feel, but with a big fat slice of class that’s picked up in the 12 uniquely furnished bedrooms. Food is a major draw & there’s a range of eating spaces: an open sandwich of chicken & smoked bacon with mango & basil dressing makes a quick bite with a pint in the bar area, but if you’re in for the long haul, head for the more formal & modern restaurant. Spiced sweet potato risotto cake with saffron, sultana & coriander mayonnaise is a good way to start. Pan-roast loin of lamb Milanese style with gremolata is a deep, rich & tasty, or plump for the Saddleworth Sausage Co’s earthy choices with accompanying mash (red onion & rosemary, leek & mustard seed or cheddar cheese & smoked bacon). Desserts are along the sticky toffee pudding lines, & if you’re a cheese lover, the Trotter Hill Tasty Lancashire will hit the spot.