The Calf's Head - Ribble Valley

Went here recently for Sunday lunch with family.The pub was busy- usually a good sign.We had a table in the large conservatory.I noticed lots of bits of food on the floor- not a great first impression.The menu was huge- not always a good sign.I ordered fish and chips. It was the worst fish and chips I have had for a long time and not cheap either at 17. The fish was ok but the chips were awful and mushy peas tasteless.I left most of it. For dessert I had “ homemade” sherry trifle.it came in a glass topped with artificial whipped cream.The custard was too hard,the sponge tasteless and the fruit out of a tin.I left most of it. The rest of our family party were underwhelmed by their meals as well.Why this pub gets generally good reviews for its food is beyond me.The Ribble Valley is blessed with many great pubs serving food of a high standard.Sadly the Calf’s Head isn’t one of them.

Visited yesterday with a family party of 28. We were given 3 tables in the lovely lower part of the room. I was very impressed with how efficient the staff were. Nobody was waiting for food, and everyone on each table got their food at the same time. Food was lovely as usual, and there was a great choice of meals and desserts. The gluten-free menu had lots to choose from, and i was told that the gluten-free fish and chips were really good. I was a little apprehensive with it being such a large party on a Sunday, but i needn't have been as it was a really pleasant experience. Would highly recommend.

We visited for late lunch for my husband’s birthday. The food was really good as always. A lot of Pubs particularly in the Ribble Valley have food that sounds wonderful in the hyped up description on the menu, but often doesn’t actually deliver. The food at the Calf’s head is unpretentious ,British Pub food of a good quality ,and excellent portion size. I had 3 starters instead of a main meal, it was a mistake due to the portion side. I had Samosas, there were 5 on the plate. I would have expected 3 maximum. I had chilli garlic prawns , again an excellent portion and oven baked garlic mushrooms. The mushrooms were the best I have had anywhere. My husband had meat and potato pie , which he thoroughly enjoyed. We had desserts, one Ferrero Rocher cheesecake which was lovely and one Manchester tart( reminiscent of school dinners but much nicer). It’s not fine dining, the presentation is plain but for good old British Pub food, it’s some the best in the area.

Up to usual standard Sunday lunch with friends was very good. The packed car park tells how popular the hotel is- we quite easily got a table and prolific amount waitresses meant e didn’t have long to wait. Drinks and excellent service made the event an enjoyable experience. Frequently use the Sister restaurant in Burnley and can’t fault either.

This pub is excellent with delicious food and beer. The staff are all friendly and helpful. They have a large garden area, but the decking area needs some maintenance. I wouldn't recommend sitting in the seats as they are not in good condition. However, overall, it is a great place to visit.