Address: The Fisherman's Retreat, Riding Head Lane, Shuttleworth, Ramsbottom, Lancashire, BL0 0HH

Phone: 01706 825314

About: Situated in over 80 acres of beautiful Lancastrian countryside just on the outskirts of Ramsbottom is The Fisherman's retreat.

This is a hidden gem of a restaurant on our foodie trial of the northwest and well worth the 15 mile journey from Manchester city Centre.

The Fisherman's first opened its doors in 1992 after Hervey Magnell returned home one day to announce he'd bought a valley to his much surprised wife. Several years of hard work later the Fisherman's retreat has become the very successful restaurant it is today.

Upon arrival the friendly staff present you with an extensive menu packed full of locally sourced treats. Situated on the edge of the Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland the Fisherman's retreat takes full advantage of the local produce and its menu reflects that.

For anyone concerned about food miles they need not worry here. The 80 acre plot supplies the restaurant with its own pork, beef, venison and even fresh trout.

There is an extensive wine list to suit every taste and budget. But it's the whiskey bar that attracts the most attention with over 500 single malt whiskies on offer all available as a dram or by the bottle. During the winter the fisherman's regularly holds whiskey tastings complete with haggis, neaps and Tatties just to get you through the darker months.

The Pocket team had a special guest with them as we were joined by ITV Granada Reports front man Tony Morris who is a Fisherman's regular. Although tempted by the suckling pig he finally went for the Lamb Chops. "Wow the chops were succulent and perfectly cooked the vegetables delicious and everything was very well presented. Great service and I am partial to the odd dram so I definitely can recommend it.

Exciting times ahead for the Fisherman's as the stunning function room will be completed in July which will put the fisherman's retreat firmly on the wedding venue map. It has the best view of any function room I have ever seen.

So for a true taste of what Lancashire has to offer a trip to the Fisherman's Retreat can be highly recommended.

Website: http://www.fishermansretreat.com/index.php