The Hanging Gate Inn

Clinging to the hillside high above Rossendale, The Hanging Gate boasts breathtaking views across Cheshire into Wales. An old drovers' inn dating from 1661, the pub marks the spot where poachers on the Royal Macclesfield Forest were hanged. Quaff a pint of local ale in one of the three unspoilt rooms or tuck into regional produce, perhaps pheasant with smoked bacon, red wine sauce, and bubble-and-squeak. On a fine day bag a seat in the garden or time a visit with the May or August Bank Holiday beer festivals.