An historic inn in the Forest of Bowland has been crowned the best hotel in the north of England by The Good Hotel Guide.
The Inn at Whitewell was named best hotel in the north and best pub with rooms, as The Good Hotel Guide reveal the winners of its 12 César Awards 2024.
The owner of the inn said the win is a big deal for a “small independent coaching inn”.
It is the only Lancashire business to have featured on the list.
Announced annually, the Césars, inspired by Swiss hotelier César Ritz, comprise a collection of outstanding hotels, inns and B&Bs throughout Britain and Ireland that are recommended by readers and backed by professional inspection.
Speaking about the Inn, inspectors said: “On the River Hodder this manor house comes with flagged floors, open fires, impressive food from chef Jamie Cadman and a cheery welcome from third-generation members of the Bowman family.”
The inn boasts 25 rooms and is often used for weddings.
Charles Bowman, owner of The Inn at Whitewell, said: “The Good Hotel Guide Cesar Award, it really does not get better than that! Being a small independent 16th century coaching inn based deep in rural Lancashire can sometimes feel ‘not cool’.
“Receiving this award reminds us that the joy of an old coaching inn still has some relevance in 2023.”
Since announcing its win on social media, may customers have praised the Inn at Whitewell.
One person said: "Well we knew that it was and it's great that you have won this award , many congratulations".
Another said: "Congratulations! So very well deserved! Can’t wait to be back."
A third commenter said: "Love it when the team's hard work pays off."
The Inn famously featured in the first episode of award winning comedy series The Trip, starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon.
The latest version of The Good Hotel Guide: Great Britain & Ireland 2024 is now live online and features more than 700 hotels, including 73 new entries.
The Good Hotel Guide does not accept payment for inclusion and the inspectors do not accept free hospitality for their anonymous hotel visits.
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