Bowland Beer Hall at Holmes Mill

My good friend first brought Bowland Beer Hall to my attention. He described a magical place where scores of beers were on offer, and where the home brews from Bowland Brewery were mostly gluten free. So, after delivering a wedding cake nearby, and with the family all off to the cinema, I carved out a bit of me time and headed over to Clitheroe to see what the fuss was all about. And any fuss you might hear about this taproom (taphall? tapmill?) is justified. As well as a strong line up of Bowland's own beer at the prow of the 105ft long bar, there is literally something for every taste available. They keep their Untappd beer list bang up to date so if you're ever considering a trip you can even plan ahead. Now, normally on these visits I keep strictly to the brewery's own beer, but having tried plenty of Bowland's beers elsewhere (and enjoying them, mind) I plumped for just one of theirs (Bowland Best) and one from Two by Two Brewing (Azacca Mosaic) whose beer I will always have when I can get my hands on it. Enough about beer though. The location itself is worth the visit even if you hate the stuff. Situated in a former cotton mill, the beer hall retains many of the original features and machinery, with all the fixtures and fittings of the bar and restaurant made tastefully in keeping with the surroundings. Along with the food hall and hotel, the beer hall at Holmes Mill is clearly a huge draw. I was there on Saturday and the place was packed - a little too busy for a solo outing, but I found myself a snug corner and shut myself off from the world well enough. With that in mind, I think next time I'll take my wife and make an afternoon of it!

Great gluten free options for gluten free beer and food, super friendly staff, we had an excellent night