Lancashire Love Artisans Food Tour with Guide

Experience a Taste of Lancashire’s Artisans with this Guided Food Tour

If you’re a foodie looking for an authentic, locally-focused journey through rural Lancashire, this Lancashire Love Artisans Food Tour offers a delightful taste of the region’s best producers. Priced at around $200 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, this tour combines visits to historic sites with visits to artisan food producers, all led by the friendly and knowledgeable guide, Katie.

What makes this experience stand out is the blend of food, drink, scenery, and local storytelling. We especially enjoyed the chance to sample Lancashire cheeses and craft gins right on the farm, plus the opportunity to enjoy fresh farm ice cream and local craft beers in picturesque settings. Another highlight: the tour’s focus on small-scale, authentic producers offers a genuine look at the region’s culinary craftsmanship.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of travel, so those with mobility issues or who prefer less time on the road might want to think twice. It’s best suited for foodies eager to explore Lancashire’s artisan scene in-depth, as well as those who enjoy a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and local flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic artisan focus: Visit some of the country’s finest small producers.
• Variety of tastes: From cheeses and ice cream to craft beers and gins, expect a well-rounded food experience.
• Beautiful scenery: Enjoy views of the Lune estuary, Forest of Bowland, and saltmarshes.
• Knowledgeable guide: Katie brings local history, legends, and food expertise into every stop.
• All-season availability: Suitable to enjoy year-round with no loss of charm.
• Limited group size: Max 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Lancashire Love Artisans Food Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Lancashire’s artisan producers, combining a scenic drive with stops at some of the region’s most interesting food and drink venues. It’s designed to give you a taste of local craftsmanship, a dash of history, and a good dose of fun.

Lancaster Castle: Starting with History and Coffee

Your day kicks off at Lancaster Castle, a site steeped in history and worth a quick visit. Here, the tour begins with a warm welcome and a chance to enjoy hot drinks and fresh cakes at Atkinsons Coffee Roasters — a charming and historic coffee merchant. The 30-minute stop offers a taste of local hospitality before heading out into the countryside.

While it’s a brief stop, it sets the tone: a blend of history and culinary delight. The free admission makes it a perfect, low-pressure introduction that also gives you time to get comfortable with your guide, Katie, before the real food adventure begins.

Exploring the Lune Estuary and Local Delights at Glasson Dock

Next, you’ll travel to Glasson Dock along the Lune estuary. The guided drive offers stunning views of saltmarshes and bay scenery — expect plenty of photo opportunities. The highlight here is a visit to a local Smokehouse, where you can browse and pick up specialty foods to take home.

This stop emphasizes the importance of local producers and how they benefit from the region’s natural bounty. It’s a great chance to discover unique products, and the free admission makes it an accessible and relaxed stop to enjoy the scenery and shop for treasures.

A Feast in the Forest of Bowland: Sharing Platters and Local Drinks

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is a visit to a country inn within the Forest of Bowland, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Here, you’ll enjoy sharing platters featuring local delicacies, accompanied by a selection of craft beers, gin, or wine.

While the inn can change depending on the day, the focus remains on regional produce and a convivial atmosphere. The 45-minute stop gives enough time to relax, chat, and savor the flavors of Lancashire in a setting that’s both scenic and cozy.

Lancashire’s Cheese: A Visit to the Cheese Centre of the Kingdom

Next, you’ll go to Goosnargh, famous for its Lancashire cheeses. The visit here includes an opportunity to taste some of the most legendary cheeses in the region, with friendly staff sharing stories about cheese-making traditions.

This stop is especially appreciated by cheese lovers, and the tasting can often include several varieties, giving you a real appreciation for Lancashire’s cheese heritage. The 30-minute duration means you can comfortably explore without feeling rushed.

Gin Tasting at Wild Fox Distillery

No artisan food tour in Lancashire would be complete without sampling some of the region’s craft gin. At Wild Fox Distillery, you’ll experience a gin tasting on the farm, enjoying insights into the distilling process from the Wild Fox family.

This stop highlights Lancashire’s emerging craft spirits scene. The tasting is limited to guests over 18, and it’s a great way to learn about the unique flavors that local botanicals can produce. You can also shop for artisan gins as souvenirs, adding a personalized touch to your day.

Garstang and the Viking Past: Ice Cream and Legends

As you head back towards the coast, the tour stops in Garstang, known as the world’s first Fairtrade Town. Here, you’ll find farm-made ice creams—a perfect treat after a day of tasting.

The guide also shares stories of Viking and Roman history, connecting the past to the present. The 30-minute stop is relaxed and offers a chance to enjoy a sweet ending to your culinary journey, with plenty of local stories to remember.

Craft Beer or Gins in Cockerham

The last stop is at a craft brewery in Cockerham, where you can indulge in a beer flight or choose locally produced gin, wine, or soft drinks. This final tasting provides a perfect ending, whether you’re a beer fan or more interested in spirits.

The 40-minute stop allows time to savor your drink and reflect on the day’s highlights before returning to Lancaster, where the tour concludes.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

This tour excels because it doesn’t just showcase food and drink; it also immerses you in the scenery and stories that make Lancashire unique. The small group size and personal guide create an intimate experience where questions and conversations flow naturally.

The value lies in the multiple tastes, scenic drives, and the chance to learn from locals about their craft. It’s perfect for foodies, history buffs, and nature lovers alike — especially those who enjoy authentic, small-scale producers rather than mass-produced options.

Price and Duration: A Fair Deal?

At roughly $200 for a full day, the cost might seem high, but the seven food and drink experiences, guided commentary, and transportation justify the price for those looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore artisan Lancashire. The included lunch and transport mean no extra planning or costs, making it a convenient and value-filled day out.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re visiting Lancashire for the first time or a seasoned local wanting to connect more deeply with regional producers, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s ideal for small groups (max 8 travelers), ensuring a relaxed and personalized atmosphere. The knowledgeable guide, Katie, makes the day engaging with fascinating stories, making each stop more meaningful.

If you love artisan cheeses, craft spirits, scenic landscapes, and local history, this tour is a delightful way to spend the day. Just be prepared for a day of travel and tasting—and come hungry!

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts about 7 hours, including time on the road and at each stop.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at Lancaster Castle and concludes back there, making it easy to access from nearby areas.

• Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
  You should contact the provider beforehand for specific dietary requirements, as some stops involve tasting or sharing platters.

• Are alcohol tastings included?
  Yes, craft beers, gin flights, and wine are included at specific stops, but only for guests over 18.

• What is the group size?
  A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Is transportation provided?
  Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers between stops.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and variable weather are recommended.

In essence, this Lancashire Artisans Food Tour combines the best of food, scenery, and storytelling into a memorable day. It’s perfect for those eager to explore small-scale producers, learn local legends, and enjoy some of England’s most scenic countryside with a friendly guide. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious about Lancashire’s culinary scene, this tour promises to satisfy your appetite for both flavor and adventure.