Pub Awards: Best Inn finalist - The Shibden Mill Inn

Down a cobbled road, you find a peaceful and tranquil retreat, situated next to a quietly flowing river. Outside, a new decked area with a pop-up food van and Peroni bar has been installed to make the most of the British summer summer and maximise the terrace area, full of flowers in bloom and the sound of water rushing by.

When you do enter the bar area, you move straight away into a different atmosphere, more typical of a traditional pub and restaurant space, full of warm, wooden charm and thick carpets. Tables are neatly arranged to accommodate many guests, and a large central bar with stools serves locals and residents alike. Up another small staircase, you enter into the breakfast and residents’ lounge, also used for afternoon teas and as a grill room. Staff in all areas are friendly and attentive, always on-hand for any request or service.

Food

Food is similar to what would be found in a high-quality brasserie, and is one-step removed from typical gastropub fayre, but it is fitting for the location and type of luxury inn that proprietor Simon Heaton has created – champagne and steak breakfasts, for example, are available for guests. Beer, wines and spirits are premium and diverse – and there are local brews on the pumps, including one created for Shibden Mill itself.

The rooms range from smaller, business style accommodation to large, luxury suites with balconies. One of the largest rooms includes a dramatic vaulted ceiling, taking full advantage of the space made from a barn conversion – and with the added luxury of having a roll-top bath in the main bedroom space.