Our Inspector's View

In case you were wondering, the word ‘hipping’ is an old term for the stepping-stones that cross the Broken Beck stream running through the hall’s delightful gardens. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, the pocket-sized country house is in a beautiful spot on the borders of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria, and is done out with a classical elegance, and offers a real draw in its stylish restaurant, where boarded floors, walls done in local pigments, soaring oak beams and a rustic fireplace feel rooted into the area. Oli Martin’s cooking is on a roll, his 21st-century approach teaming prime local produce with of-the-moment techniques in four-, six- and 10-course tasters (with veggie alternatives). An opening dish of butter pie – crisp pastry filled with a harmonious trio of Mrs Kirkham’s cheese, truffle and onion – is a modern, northern-inspired classic. Next up, a composition of Mull scallop, kohlrabi and smoked eel is dedicated to delivering the essence of each ingredient, while meaty satisfaction comes in the shape of Shorthorn beef with onion and hay, or tender Goosnargh chicken supported by seaweed and shiitake mushrooms. A crossover dish of Yorkshire rhubarb with buckwheat and sorrel paves the way for an inspired finisher of apple with Douglas fir and honey.

Awards, Accolades & welcome Schemes

4 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence