HIDDEN HISTORIC GEM
Simon Smith visits the 1823 Bistro Bar and Grill at Holmes Mill, where he discovers a delightfully elegant dining venue in the old Spinning Block
Holmes Mill in Clitheroe is an amazing testimony to the vision and dedication of its owners, James’ Places. This transformation of an old cotton mill into a beautiful and lively centre serving beer, food and wine in the heart of Clitheroe is nothing short of miraculous.
The recent addition of the Everyman cinema seems to be going down a treat as well!
However, for me the jewel in the crown of this complex is the delightful 1823 Bistro, Bar and Grill. In the oldest building on the site the bistro adjoins the 1823 Spinning Block Hotel, with 39 wonderful bedrooms.
The bistro welcomes visitors with open arms into its fabulous large open bar, which is magnificently appointed to an almost unbelievable standard.
The long bar invites you to sit and sip cocktails from its extensive menu with a special Cocktail Club on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings (two for one 5pm to 7pm). If cocktails aren’t your tipple then the delicious Bowland Brewery’s cask ales, brewed on site, or really anything you fancy is available.
The luxurious leather sofas and comfy chairs in a room with an amazing ceiling and panelling, really make you feel you are somewhere very special.
Moving through to the restaurant guests can watch the chefs beavering away and sit in true comfort and elegance at the contemporary tables, with the option of a quiet table in the corner or, alternatively, being amongst the action on a busy night!
The bistro offers a fine selection of dishes using the best freshest ingredients from the on-site Bowland Food Hall. Seafood from Fleetwood and seasonal fruit and veg from the flat plains of West Lancashire are all utilised to conjure up delicious modern British menus in the restaurant.
The focus is on local seafood and meat to produce a selection of remarkable dishes in truly delightful surroundings. A recent visit unveiled a new side of the business to me – the 1823 Bistro offers one of the nicest venues I’ve experienced for an informal or even a formal occasion. With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect place for a great family get together, a works party or just a romantic dinner for two!
The wine list has something for everyone – you can choose from the finest Champagnes or Prosecco if you’re on a party night and one or two of my favourite South African wines are, in my opinion, among the highlights of a well-balanced and good-value wine selection.
There is always a lot going on at the Holmes Mill complex but the 1823 Bistro is something definitely not to be missed. It presents an opportunity to have a lovely evening out whether it’s a grand celebration or a quiet dinner with friends.
Keep your eyes on the website for special evenings with entertainment and while you’re there join the Cocktail Club for a great deal!
1823 Bistro, Bar & Grill
Holmes Mill, Greenacre Street
Clitheroe BB7 1EB
01200 407111
www.holmesmill.co.uk
