Stanley House, Mellor, 01254 769200.

Stanley House, set in the luxury of a 17th century manor at Mellor, has an award-winning restaurant, Cassis.

It opened in October 2004 and Cassis, heralded as the jewel in the hotel's crown, is situated in the adjoining barn conversion. It has comfortable surroundings with a contemporary décor of blackberry, amethyst, purples and greens.

Past diners have put it above one of the world's most exclusive restaurant's, The Ritz in London, and others have said the food is the very best they have eaten - a huge achievement for the multi-award winning chef Warrick Dodds.

Warrick has an excellent pedigree - he has worked at numerous top restaurants including as chef de partie at Heathcotes and head chef at Northcote Manor.

The 30-year-old is also sure to make sure your meal at Cassis is as good as it can be as his motivation is the 'pursuit of perfection'.

This pursuit is ongoing at the moment as new menus are currently being devised but you can always expect a menu that changes with the seasons as well as classic dishes with a modern twist all made from locally sourced produce.

To relax after dinner you can retire to The Loft, which overlooks the restaurant and has panoramic views over the beautiful Ribble Valley.

If you want a light bite then you could try the cosy Mr Fred's Bar and Lounge. You can pick from an inviting menu of sandwiches, light lunches, a selection of wines, continental beers and spirits as well as teas and coffees.

Decorated with reds and golds with views over the gardens, you can sit back and relax and in the warmer months there is outdoor seating on an adjoining patio.