Nestled in the rolling hills of the Ribble Valley, Northcote is a beacon of refined luxury and culinary excellence. This redbrick manor, originally built in 1880 as a private residence, is perched on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering visitors a serene backdrop for their stay. It combines modern sophistication with timeless charm, attracting those who seek not only relaxation but also an extraordinary dining experience.

The hotel is home to 26 individually designed rooms, spread between the historic manor house and the contemporary Garden Lodge. These elegantly furnished rooms offer a perfect blend of comfort and style, with traditional décor in the main house and a more modern flair in the Garden Lodge. Whether staying in a cosy classic room or the more opulent suites, all rooms come with a range of luxury amenities and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Garden Lodge’s suites, in particular, provide expansive space with balconies or terraces and thoughtful details like living flame fires, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.

Michelin Star Dining

Northcote has firmly established itself as a culinary destination, led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, whose passion for showcasing the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients has earned the restaurant accolades, including the title of the UK’s Best Fine Dining Restaurant for 2024. Goodwin-Allen’s menus are an exquisite celebration of Lancashire’s natural bounty, where each dish, from West Coast crab to Scottish venison, is a testament to her innovative approach to British cuisine. Diners are invited to indulge in a five-course seasonal gourmet menu, expertly paired with fine wines, in the 60-cover restaurant under a glittering crystal chandelier.

Guests can enjoy a culinary journey that starts with pre-dinner canapés in the hotel’s cosy cocktail bar and ends with a hand-crafted dessert like the unique ‘Coffee’ dish, featuring sesame, Valrhona chocolate, and winter leaves. For those who want to witness the artistry behind each dish, Northcote offers a front-row seat at the Chef’s Table, where up to 16 guests can engage directly with the chefs and watch the culinary team in action through glass doors.

Once seated in the main dining room, guests are presented with the seasonal five-course Gourmet Menu, a celebration of locally sourced ingredients and the changing rhythms of the British landscape. This menu is a true reflection of Goodwin-Allen’s commitment to using the finest seasonal produce, with dishes that highlight the bounty of Lancashire and beyond. For those seeking to elevate their meal further, an expertly curated wine pairing is available, providing an additional layer of complexity to each course.

The first course arrives—Forest Mushroom Parfait with pickled walnut, mushroom tea, and tarragon flaky bread. The dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious, with earthy, rich flavours beautifully balanced by the tang of the pickled walnut and the delicate crunch of the bread. The accompanying Évora White Vinho de Talha from Portugal complements the dish perfectly, its fresh, crisp notes enhancing the depth of the mushrooms.

Next, the Squab Pigeon with damson molasses, smoked bacon, and spelt offers a more robust flavour profile. The pigeon, cooked to perfection, is tender and succulent, while the sweetness of the damson and the smokiness of the bacon create a harmonious balance. Paired with a Pinot Grigio Riserva Ramato from Italy, the dish becomes a masterclass in contrasting textures and flavours, each element enhancing the other.

The seafood course is a true standout—North Sea Cod with taramasalata, kalamansi, and hazelnut. The cod is delicately cooked, with the light, creamy taramasalata providing a silky counterpoint to the bright citrus of the kalamansi. A Directors Reserve from South Africa elevates this course, offering a bold yet balanced accompaniment to the refined flavours of the fish.

As the meal progresses, the Scottish Venison takes centre stage, served with beetroot, caramelised squash, and blackcurrant. The venison, tender and rich, is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the squash and the tartness of the blackcurrant. Paired with a robust Zinfandel from Sonoma County, the dish embodies the heartiness of autumn, bringing warmth and depth to the palate.

For dessert, the aptly named Coffee dish arrives—a delicate composition of sesame, Valrhona chocolate, and winter leaves. The interplay of textures is masterful, with the creaminess of the chocolate offset by the crispness of the sesame. The dessert is paired with a Ratafia Champenois from France, its sweet, nutty notes providing the perfect finale to an extraordinary meal.

Throughout the dining experience, the service is impeccable—attentive yet unobtrusive, with each course introduced with precision and care. The staff’s knowledge of both the food and wine is impressive, and their passion for delivering a memorable dining experience is evident in every interaction. The theatre of the meal is heightened as dishes are presented with an air of sophistication, from the opening amuse-bouche to the final flourish of petit fours served with coffee.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Chef’s Table at Northcote offers the opportunity to dine in the heart of the kitchen. Here, guests can witness first-hand the artistry of Goodwin-Allen and her team, engaging with the chefs as they craft each dish. This exclusive setting allows diners to fully appreciate the skill and dedication that goes into each plate, adding an extra layer of intimacy to an already remarkable experience.

The dedication to local produce is a key element of the Northcote ethos. Each ingredient is sourced with care, ensuring that the flavours on the plate are as fresh and vibrant as possible. Whether it’s the venison from the Scottish Highlands or the mushrooms from the nearby forest, the connection to the land is palpable in every bite.

Exceptional Service

Northcote’s dedication to impeccable service extends beyond its Michelin-starred restaurant. The hotel’s attentive staff ensure that every detail of the guest experience is handled with care, offering professional yet warm service. Each room is equipped with a booklet of local walks, and the hotel provides everything needed for a countryside retreat, from a boot room to gun cabinets for those venturing into the surrounding areas for hunting trips.

Situated just 12 miles from Preston, Northcote is ideally located for both rural and urban explorers. The Ribble Valley’s blend of history and natural beauty, combined with Northcote’s luxurious accommodation and world-class dining, makes it a destination like no other in the British Isles. As a proud member of PoB Hotels, Northcote stands alongside the finest independent hotels in the UK, offering guests access to an exclusive collection of properties known for their excellence.

Northcote’s accolades are well deserved, with its restaurant being named the third-best fine dining destination in the world by Tripadvisor in 2024. Under the leadership of Lisa Goodwin-Allen, who has retained the hotel’s Michelin star since 2021, Northcote continues to set the bar for culinary innovation and excellence in hospitality. Goodwin-Allen’s rise in the culinary world, including her historic win on the BBC’s Great British Menu, has cemented her status as one of the UK’s leading chefs.

For those seeking a true escape, Northcote offers an immersive experience where luxury, tradition, and the beauty of nature come together. Whether guests are savouring an expertly prepared meal, enjoying the comforts of their suite, or exploring the vast beauty of Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, Northcote ensures an unforgettable and indulgent visit.