"I just couldn’t turn down the chance" - top chef on taking over at much-loved Ribble Valley gastropub
Acclaimed chef Mike Shaw has been appointed Chef Patron at The Freemasons at Wiswell, marking a new chapter for the award-winning Lancashire gastropub.
He comes in following the departure of Steven Smith to KAJI Manchester. Smith, who spent 15 years as chef patron at The Freemasons, ensured the venue earned a loyal clientele and a reputation as one of the UK’s finest gastropubs.
Since its transformation and reopening in 2009, The Freemasons has earned a loyal clientele and a reputation as one of the UK’s finest gastropubs. The inn holds three AA Rosettes and has long been a fixture on the Top 50 Gastropubs list, recognised for its balance of fine dining flair and comforting British hospitality.
Who is Mike Shaw and what will he be offering?
Shaw’s impressive career includes time at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Hambleton Hall, Aubergine, Restaurant Neat in Cannes and Gilpin Lodge. Under his leadership, The Freemasons will be offering set menus at a set price, alongside a programme of casual gastronomic events that celebrate the seasons and the best of British produce.
True to The Freemasons’ deep connection with its surroundings, Shaw has already been working closely with local suppliers and gamekeepers to craft new dishes. On the current menus you’ll find cured duck liver and Tamworth ham, pickled rhubarb and golden raisin; hand dived scallops with artichoke, oscietra caviar and walnut; and local loin of venison with crepinette, braised red cabbage, quince and a pepper sauce.
Reflecting on his move, Shaw said: "I've visited The Freemasons over a number of years ago and thought, what a beautiful place. When I was offered the role, I just couldn’t turn down the chance to run the kitchen in one of Lancashire’s favourite gastropubs”.
Why not stay?
The Freemasons also offers four luxury bedrooms, named after wildlife, Hare, Fox, Partridge and Grouse. Each room is individually designed and features an en-suite bathroom with walk-in showers, with some rooms also offering freestanding roll-top baths. Guests will be treated to a plush super-king bed, a 50-inch Smart TV, a Nespresso coffee machine, and luxury bath products. Prices start at £125 for a mid-week overnight stay (room only), and £220 for a Friday room with dinner and breakfast £280 on a Saturday.
Two of the four bedrooms are dog-friendly, allowing up to two well-behaved dogs at no extra charge. Breakfast is included with all stays and is served in the pub’s restaurant.
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