We visited the Whitchaff with friends 15.06.24. We had eaten here several times and had recommended it to the friends we were with. When we arrived I confirmed the booking with the pleasant young woman behind the bar. There was a lady at our side of the bar who said ''that's your table'' and pointed to a small table behind her. I turned to my friend and asked her ''Is that okay for you?'' The lady who had spoken then said ''it's the only one I've got'' in a very sharp manner. My friend was clearly surprised by this persons attitude & I was embarrassed by her rudeness. There was another, bigger table for 4 available, but we sat at the one she told us to. My husband ordered a pint of beer. When it arrived it was extremely cloudy. When he asked for it to be changed the same person shouted over the bar ''there's nothing wrong with it - I've been pulling off it all day'' My husband - who previously owned his own micro brewery suggested that maybe the barrel was possibly empty, she stated there's nothing wrong with it, it will settle''. He was given another pint of a different beer & then we watched her pull 2 or 3 pints - all of which were cloudy & then go and change the barrel. I struggle to understand why a member of staff would argue across the room . I asked another member of staff who this person was and was told that her name was Sarah and that she was the bar manager. (just to make sure we have the right person she had fair hair in a short ponytail. ) Needless to say this really spoiled our evening, my friends were extremely disappointed & myself and my husband were thoroughly embarrassed for recommending the Whitchaff. Our bill for the evening was £144.30 not a inconsiderate amount I feel. The food was generally good as was the service from other members of staff. However we will certainly not be visiting again or recommending it to others. I would suggest some customer service training!
The Whitchaff Inn – Rawtenstall