Exciting Times
Tedd Walmsley visits the Black Bull at Old Langho – always an uplifting experience. The welcome from the team is warm, the food excellent and the service impeccable. The perfect storm you might say
My visit last Friday to catch up with the Black Bull owners, Jamie and Becky Govier, was even more enjoyable than usual – the atmosphere was electric with smiles and enthusiasm apparent.
Jamie was helping behind the bar with Becky out front. The reason for all this excitement was the latest development being announced – that of the acquisition of Keepers Cottage just a stone’s throw away from the pub. This will soon be an incredible addition to complement the pub with eight boutique bedrooms planned alongside an exclusive cocktail bar for guests’ use.
Imagine private dining, celebration events or foodie breaks in the luxury backdrop of this new accommodation. The opportunities are endless and another step towards the next development of a wedding destination, with teepee accommodation and, of course, the promise of first-class facilities and that special service we’ve all become accustomed to.
The bedrooms will be open this summer and I look forward to introducing them to you later in the year. You must admire Jamie and Becky for their continued investment and sheer love of their pub – this shines through and sets the benchmark high for hospitality in the Ribble Valley.
I wasn’t surprised to see the Black Bull being nominated for various awards in the Ribble Valley Business Awards and recognition from the Marston Brewery. People are beginning to take notice and share their support and affection for all their efforts.
The team never sit on their laurels – the amazing outdoor space is soon to be prepared for sunny days and warmer weather. This space has become popular since conceived to combat Covid restrictions and is such an excellent alternative to eating indoors.
Inside, the pub has seen more refreshing of the décor and delightful tweaks for the interior features that help give warmth and atmosphere to this space. We also must remind ourselves that the Bull is open seven days a week – rare in the Ribble Valley but another factor that gives them the edge for those seeking out early-week dining.
I caught up with Becky to find out more about the new seasonal menus and dishes to look forward to. Doorstep sandwiches look to be plentiful and robust with a range of mouth-watering fillings. Lighter bites include an interesting Capresi skewer and a traditional Ploughman’s Platter which, which will no doubt be popular too.
There are a couple of standout dishes in the mains too – herb crusted lamb cutlets with creamy mash and a red wine jus sounds delicious and the honey and lavender glazed duck breast with cabbage and dauphinoise potatoes looks very tempting indeed.
Chef remains committed to innovate with the use of a selection of seasonal produce and whilst it’s a big menu, it’s the opposite in fact for the direction many restaurants are going, but again this gives the Bull standout.
No compromise, no short-cuts, just served up well with the passion of the team shining through on the plate.
There are a couple of key events coming up 27th March – Mother’s Day with only a few tables available across the day.
A new innovation is the Grand Breakfast from 9th April the perfect way for those attending the Grand National to start their day – full breakfast and full bar from 9am!
All in all, things continue onward and upwards and I wish them every success in the next stage of bringing their dream to life.
The Black Bull
Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW
01254 248801
enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk
theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk
