Local Pubs We Love!
Local Pubs We Love: The Rum Fox, Grindleton
Exploring the best watering holes and foodie gems around Laythams
Welcome to the first entry in our new blog series, where we shine a spotlight on the best local pubs and must visit eateries near Laythams Holiday Lets Retreat. Whether you're relaxing in one of our cosy accommodations or setting out to explore the Forest of Bowland, this is your guide to the gems that make our area so special.
Discover Grindleton
Tucked away on the edge of the Forest of Bowland’s National Landscape, Grindleton is a picturesque Lancashire village with timeless charm. Think winding country lanes, stone cottages, and sweeping views of the Ribble Valley. It’s a tranquil, scenic spot perfect for walking, photography, or simply soaking up the countryside air.
Best of all, it’s just under 15 minutes’ drive (around 6 miles) from Laythams, making it the perfect destination for a relaxed lunch, a special dinner, or a slow pint after a day of exploring.
The Rum Fox: Modern Dining with Rural Charm
Recently opened and already gathering serious acclaim, The Rum Fox brings contemporary flair to the traditional country pub setting. It’s stylish yet unpretentious, cosy yet modern and a real standout in the local food scene. With four unique spaces, The Restaurant, refined and elegant, The Pub, welcoming and relaxed, The light-filled Garden Room and a chic Private Dining Room for small groups, there’s a spot to suit every kind of visit!
Award-Winning for Good Reason
Since opening in 2023, The Rum Fox has quickly earned its place on the culinary map:
*Featured in the Good Food Guide Top 100 Local Restaurants (2024)
* Included in the Good Food Guide’s Cosy Pubs list
*Finalist in the Top 50 Gastropubs ‘One to Watch’ category
*Winner of New Tourism Business of the Year
*Finalist for Best Pub in Lancashire at the Lancashire Tourism Awards
*Recently listed in the Michelin Guide (2025)
Taste, Toast, and Indulge
We’ve visited The Rum Fox on multiple occasions, after local walks for a quick drink in the Garden room and for both their tasting menu and special Father’s Day Sunday roast and both were exceptional.
The tasting menu: a seven course experience with artful presentation, bold flavors, and local ingredients.
The Sunday roast: classic comfort but elevated, think perfectly cooked meats, crisp potatoes, and Yorkshire puds you’ll dream about!
Their cocktail list is equally impressive. While they sit at the premium end of the pricing scale, the quality is well worth it. The Espresso Martinis served on Father’s Day were a standout, smooth, rich, and expertly crafted.
Easy to Get To, Hard to Forget
From Laythams, just hop in the car and head south through stunning countryside. In about 12–15 minutes, you’ll arrive in Grindleton — park up, stroll through the village, and settle in at The Rum Fox for an experience that combines village charm with destination dining.
In Summary:
With its award-winning food, gorgeous setting, and welcoming atmosphere, The Rum Fox in Grindleton is everything we love about this part of Lancashire. It's a must visit for Laythams guests looking for something a little special, without venturing far.
The Rum Fox, Sawley Rd, Grindleton, Clitheroe BB7 4QS
(Closed Monday & Tuesdays)
@the_rum_fox
Stay tuned for the next post in our local pub series, we’ve got plenty more to share!
