Doors open at Hoghton pub where King James I knighted beef (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Doors open at Hoghton pub where King James I knighted beef

5:00pm Wednesday 4th April 2012 in Hoghton By Chris Gee, Reporter

THE ‘steaks’ are certainly high for a restaurateur who has re-opened a historic pub.

Matthew Chapman is running The Sirloin Inn, Hoghton, where legend has it King James I knighted a joint of beef, creating the iconic meat dish.

Matthew, 26 who also runs the well-established Strawbury Duck at Entwistle, has refurbished the premises, which have been vacant since a previous restaurant, Thyme, closed in January, 2011.

There was an informal opening at the weekend for friends and family but now the pub and restaurant are fully operational.

Matthew said: “We’ve kept the main bar with low ceilings, log fires, original floors and features.

“The 100 cover restaurant is on the first floor and we have a private room which can be used for meetings.

“It’s nice to have such an interesting, historical connection to the pub.

“Our aim at the Sirloin is to create a bustling country pub with locals, destination diners and families.”

The famous story surrounding the pub is that a hunting party including King James I, dined there after visiting Hoghton Tower.

The King placed his sword on a fine loin of beef, which appeared on the table at the inn, which was from then on renamed The Sirloin in remembrance of the event.

The pub will be a free house with a selection of East Lancashire brewed real ale, including beers from Thwaites and Moorhouses.

As well as the eponymous steak, sourced from Aberdeen Angus and Hereford breeds, Matthew said the inn would also serve up some other specialities.

He said: “We farm our own Saddleback pigs which are reared a few miles away. Although our pork is fattier than standard pork I believe the taste is far superior.”