A handsome grey stone building which sits on a crossroads in green farmland with the Bowland Fells to the east. The place was much in decline until local businessman Marcus took it on with the aim of making it into the sort of inn he admires – one with outstanding service, great food and attractive surroundings. All is fresh and welcoming inside with gleaming furniture, fresh flowers in jugs, blazing fires on cooler days and a cheery vibe emanating from manager Maurice – there’s even a shop. Chef Ian Manning creates honest dishes without fuss: fillet of Seabass en Papillote, Braised Pork Belly, Black Pudding Scotch Egg. There’s Black Sheep bitter or a choice of three other local beers, a specialist gin, malt whisky, and sensible wine menu from a Clitheroe merchant. On sunny days spill outside to the garden, well-tended and with a good play area. Choose to stay and you’ll sleep well in quiet bedrooms with fine wool carpets, flat screen TVs, pretty fabrics for curtains and headboards, the best beds; bathrooms are new and glossy. Breakfast will set you up for hearty walking from the door.
What an amazing find. Spotted here on the Sawday’s website and just had a lovely night at the Fleece Inn. Delicious dinner (tempura vegetables followed by sea bass en papillotte for me) and comfortable room with character - flagstones, pictures, history) and a good breakfast. Managed to get a half price room because it was midweek and we opted to eat a two course meal. Sweet little shop inside the pub for guests, locals and passers by too. Wish we could stay longer but just a stop on the way to the Lakes. We’ll be back.