REVEALED: The 5 best country pubs in East Lancashire

Each weekend on the Lancashire Telegraph website we’ll be shouting about the best places to go in East Lancashire.

Whether it’s the cosiest country pubs, the swankiest wine bars, prize winning pizza parlours or the tastiest restaurants, we’ll be talking up the hottest venues in a county renowned for its food and drink.

We’ll be asking readers for their top tips on where to go – and throwing in some of our own suggestions too.

This week we’re giving you the lowdown on the best country pubs.

1. The Clog and Billycock

Recently under new ownership and extensively refurbished, the ‘Clog’ has been part of life in Pleasington for over 150 years. There is a range of cask ales available at the bar plus an impressive selection of wines. An outdoor terrace offers fine views and there are plenty of cosy dining areas. The menu varies daily and features a range of British inspired pub classics. If you fancy working up an appetite, a circular walk has been specially commissioned starting from and returning to the pub.

2. The Fence Gate

An 18th Century inn which boasts a range of real ales, you can simply enjoy a drink at the bar, or enjoy food either at the bar or in the separate brasserie. The award-winning sausages are a real speciality and the menu features a range of British classics. It’s the kind of place where locals from the village mingle with those who have travelled a little further afield to enjoy its relaxing atmosphere.

3. The Dog Inn

The Dog Inn made history when it became the first pub in Lancashire to be run by the community and it really is at the heart of life in Belthorn. There is a coffee shop which is open in the afternoon, a newly-refurbished restaurant area and a host of social events from live music to quiz nights. It functions both as a local drinking establishment and a destination eatery.

4. The Aspinall Arms

Situated on the banks of the River Ribble, the Aspinall Arms offers some amazing views. When the weather’s right, the large, terraced outdoor seating areas prove to be a popular spot with families and couples alike. Walkers and cyclists often call in for a cooling drink or to sample the extensive menu. It’s rustic and yet unpretentious with a large dining area and flagged floored rooms.

5. The Alma Inn

If rugged moorland views are for you, then the Alma offers them aplenty. The bar area retains that country local feel but there are also cosy dining areas for you to sit and enjoy the ever-changing menu of traditional classic fare and fish specialities. Should your walk around the glorious countryside prove tiring, the Alma also offers rooms. In summer the outdoor seating area is a popular attraction.