Mulberry Tree, The

Originally built in 1832, The Mulberry Tree was formerly a wheelwright's, sometime brewery, blacksmith and latterly a cavernous pub. The refuge has, since its opening in April 2000, grown to become one of the most critically acclaimed dining destinations in the region. It has retained a Michelin Bib Gourmand for four consecutive years, has won Les Routier's North West Dining Pub of the Year and is highly recommended in the Good Food Guide.

Mark Prescott, a Roux trained exponent of the art excels in creating Modern European cuisine. The bar and lounge area does a roaring trade at lunchtime and for less formal meals such as fish and chips, most in generous proportions, whilst the dining room produces a more ambitious menu for those with time to spare. Think in terms of Iranian Sevruga caviar, and seven-hour braised lamb shank with fondant potatoes, baby vegetables and honey and rosemary scented jus.

The wine list fields more than 50 numbers from all over the world.