Well, it's good to be back in "Old Blighty", after a two-week jolly, beery jaunt in Brittany.

Have to admit, I do look forward to my return, and the lure of a traditional British boozer – and the taste of a cask conditioned ale.

This week I descended on the village of Foulridge, near Colne, to a local hostelry that has been rapidly gaining a reputation for fine cuisine and tasty beverages.

The New Inn is a typical, traditional village pub, that dates back to 1889.

It has a cobbled frontage, that is most impressive, and I, along with son, Graham and his girlfriend Maggy, were most impressed with our first impressions, as we strolled into the pub.

The pub has a roomy, open-plan lounge, and you get an immediate cosy feel, with its low beamed ceiling, log burner, warm pastel shade decor and soft furnishings around the perimeter of the room.

It also boasts an off-room dining area and pool room, with an oak surround open fireplace.

We were met by barman, Paul, who was just recovering from serving meals and dispensing drinks for a group of 20 hungry and thirsty patrons. He was a most affable and chatty young chap, who was keen to discuss anything topical with us.

Well, my main topic was the range of cask ales on the bar. It was a Thwaites owned pub, and had three on offer.

Two of their core range, Original (£2.80), Wainwright(£3.05) and a guest ale, Elgood's, Golden Newt. I went for the latter, despite it being a tad pricey at £3.20 a pint. It was in great nick. A refreshing, easy drinking slurp. It had a fruity, moderately hopped flavour and a smooth, malty finish – it was worth it.

We sat ourselves down, with Graham and Maggy eager to choose something from the extensive menu.

I had already eaten pre-visit, and was admiring the attractive L-shaped beer garden, with its wooden benched tables, colourful flower displays and far reaching views over the Pendle countryside.

The food is prepared and cooked by the landlord and chef, Andrew Stopforth. Andrew has been at the New Inn for 12 months now, and has been earning rave reviews for his culinary skills.

Well, the meals arrived and looked most impressive. Graham had chosen a trio of sausage, on a bed of mustard mash potato, with onion rings and a rich gravy. Graham said: “It was one of the best meals I’ve tasted. Food of an extremely high standard.”

Maggy is vegetarian and plumped for the cheese and onion pie, home cooked chips and garden peas. She was equally impressed, commenting: “The pie was to die for – and I loved the home made chunky chips – the portions were enormous.”

So, very happy customers all round. A most impressive and enjoyable visit.

The New Inn is thoroughly recommended. It ticked all the boxes. A warm, welcoming environment. Friendly regulars and staff. Quality food – and beer in excellent condition – enough said, one thinks.