'Everything is 5 star' - new chapter for Preston country pub

A powerhouse team behind one of Preston’s most-loved pubs have promised an exciting future.

Harriet Clarkson and Peter Jackson, who also run the Rishton Arms near Blackburn and the Old Oak in Longridge, have taken over the Stags Head in Whittingham Lane, Goosnargh, and are pouring their all into the venture, which has seen an overhaul of the food and drink menus, as well as internal renovations.

“We’ve poured lots of love into it”, said manager Harriet.

“We’re very passionate about what we do and we want to make sure we do it right, so we were the first ones mucking in. Everything here is five star - we’re obsessive about pints, glasswear and we’ve dramatically improved the food offering. Pete doesn’t mess about, he goes in properly.”

The management team were brought in by Heineken after the previous management team left. Sanderson's Pub Dining Limited, which formerly operated at the Stags Head entered creditors' voluntary liquidation on September 1.

Peter, Harriet and team closed the pub for two weeks in July while they upgraded the floors, carpets and decor.

“We’re now firing on all cylinders”, said Harriet. “There’s been a fantastic reception since we’ve reopened in the summer, and it’s great for the village. We’ve already done family fun days, live music and there’s loads of things coming up.”

Future plans

Harriet said they’re looking at adding more equipment for children in the pub’s extensive beer garden, as well as hosting seasonal and Christmas events, as well as charity fundraisers - as they have done at the Rishton Arms.

They inherited the Stag’s staff from the previous manager, and say they’re all ‘very happy’ to be able to put the country pub back on the map. Harriet added: “Goosnargh is a small place and this pub is a huge part of the community. We’re really excited to be able to give it a fresh start and bring back guests from further afield.”