Lancashire’s three Michelin Star restaurant named best in the UK

The latest edition of Harden’s prestigious Top 100 Restaurants list has been unveiled, with an acclaimed Lancashire spot topping the list.

March Birchall’s Moor Hall, which was awarded its third Michelin Star earlier this year, was voted best restaurant in the UK in the coveted guide, rapidly climbing from 74th spot last year.

Harden’s 100 restaurants list is derived from the 30,000 reports with ratings submitted by 2,500 diners who contributed to the Harden’s annual survey.

Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume, which was the 2024 winner, was runner-up this time out. It was a strong showing in general from the North West region, boasting the most Top 100 entries outside of London, with 12 restaurants featured in the list.

Lauded city centre newcomer, Skof, landed a Top 10 debut, the latest accolade in a whirlwind first year, which has, of course, included Manchester’s elusive second Michelin Star. Joining in 11th, is Mana, which earned acclaim for its “interesting and innovative cuisine with unique flavours” and “superb service.”

Also flying the flag for Lancashire were sō-lō, Aughton (86) and Northcote, Langho (13). Cumbria’s reputation as the go-to for fine dining was further cemented, with The Cedar Tree, Farlam Hall (67), The Forest Side, Grasmere (70), Allium at Askham Hall, Penrith (70), The Cottage in the Wood, Braithwaite (84), and Old Stamp House, Ambleside (92) all included.

Peter Harden, co-founder of Harden’s, comments: “Moor Hall has been a recurring name in the Harden’s Top 100 UK Restaurants list for many years now, as has runner-up L’Enclume which was in the top spot a couple of years ago. In a Top 100 where restaurants are very much at the mercy of diner reports from the first six months of the year, the consistent performance from these two venues is a testament to the high quality of the food, service and location. It’s wonderful to see Mark and his talented team reach this year’s pole position and, whilst diners who took part in our national survey did often flag the higher price point, it appears to be a venue regarded as well worth it, albeit for a rare treat.”

Chef-patron of Moor Hall, Mark Birchall adds: “I’m honoured that Moor Hall has been awarded the No. 1 spot in this year’s Harden’s Top 100 UK Restaurants list. This has already been a landmark year for us, and I’m delighted to see the team’s dedication recognised once again. Our success is driven by the talent, consistency and commitment of everyone who contributes to the experience at Moor Hall. It’s a wonderful acknowledgement of their hard work and passion, and we’re proud to share this achievement with everyone who dines with us.”