The Turnpike Inn, Rishworth

On the way back from delivering a wedding album the other day, we stopped at the Turnpike Inn at Rishworth to sample their coffee, as they always have a sign outside saying that coffee is served all day.

The inn has relatively recently been very tastefully renovated and made for pleasant place to sit and enjoy a coffee, looking out over the reservoir across the road.

As you can see from the photo below, the cappuccino was very nicely presented, so much so that it seemed a shame to drink it and spoil the effect.

Thirst being what it was, it had to be done, and the coffee went down just perfectly. It was a little on the strong side, but that was exactly what I needed at that moment, so top marks.

The menu was very tempting with a good choice and quite reasonable prices for the type of establishment, but time dictated that we get back and get on with some work, so maybe another time...

Overall, it is definitely a place to stop off at if you are passing that way, you will not be diappointed.

 

Photos taken on Sony Xperia X10

Holden Wood Antique Centre Tearoom, Haslingden

One of the lesser known gems of a cafe is situated in the rather pleasant surroundings of a renovated church in Haslingden, known as Holden Wood Antique Centre tearoom. Follow this link for the tearoom's own website.

The main church building houses an Alladin's cave of antiques ranging from toys, through to books, jewellery and furniture. It is an amazing place to browse, bringing back a lot of memories from childhood (oops, showing my age a little), and giving lots of inspiration for home ideas. This alone makes the place worth a visit.

When we first went there was a "coffee shop", which consisted of a small side room with very basic tables and chairs, and was not very inviting. However, and it's a big "however", they have completely set the game at a higher level and opened a cafe/retaurant in a very tastefully done extension on the side of the church. It utilises the old outside wall of the church building, which brings the old architecture into the atmosphere, and the large windows give views out onto the Lancashire hills, making it one of the nicest locations around to enjoy a meal, a drink, and your favourite company. The food is excellent, to the highest of standards, to say nothing of the cakes!!

My drink of choice was presented very nicely (see below) and was very enjoyable. We have been there several times before, will definitely be going again, and would happily recommend it to anybody.

There are numerous walks locally, as well, so you can make a day (or half-day) of it with a walk and refrshments.

Photo's taken on Sony X10 phone.