Modern British · Riverside Dining

Award winning
dining.

A 2 AA Rosette restaurant and bar on the banks of the River Darwen.

AA 2 Rosette award for culinary excellence, 2025
A plated dish finished at the table in the Riverside dining room
The Riverside Legacy

Heritage. Elevated.

For decades, The Riverside has been part of Darwen's story: a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy exceptional food and warm hospitality.

Today, with a renewed vision and a refined approach, we honour our heritage while embracing the future. Riverside Bar & Kitchen is where timeless flavours, beautiful spaces and memorable moments come together.

Our story

Restaurant

Modern British cuisine, seasonal ingredients, beautifully presented.

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Gressingham duck with heritage beetroot, cherry and chicory

Riverside Bar

Crafted cocktails, fine wines and a relaxed atmosphere from day to late.

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Two cocktails served at the Riverside bar
Signature Experiences

Flavour. Crafted with passion.

A seasonal dessert of lemon tart with strawberries and meringue

Seasonal Dishes

Thoughtful menus that celebrate the best of British produce.

A pornstar martini served at the Riverside bar

Expertly Crafted Cocktails

Creative drinks, classic favourites and premium spirits.

Guests enjoying drinks together at The Riverside

Memorable Moments

Every detail considered for an unforgettable dining experience.

What guests say

In their words

  • Google

    “We came with a large party for a retirement celebration. Everything was amazing! Great communication at the start when deciding on the menus. Everyone commented on how beautiful the setting is. Food was lovely and the service was great.”

    Emma Smallridge A retirement party · July 2026
  • OpenTable

    “Always 10/10 food is absolutely excellent and of the very best quality, every dish is made with skill and care and it shows in the flavour and presentation, couldn’t recommend a better restaurant!”

    Louis July 2026
  • Google

    “An absolute gem, service was impeccable and the food was incredible. We’ve not had food that good in a long time, you will definitely see us again soon, thank you for a lovely Sunday lunch!”

    Hollie Jackson Sunday lunch · May 2026
  • OpenTable

    “We wanted to experience a nice ambiance for the evening. It was perfect. We also wanted food that we would appreciate and actually feel value for money. Absolutely loved it. A really fantastic evening and made to feel like genuine customers that were treated with the most upmost respect. A professional service and outstanding experience.”

    Karl July 2026
  • Google

    “The service was 10/10, the restaurant is lovely with nice lighting and atmosphere. I have coeliac disease, and our waitress was knowledgeable on procedures like a separate gluten free fryer. They have a great gluten free menu.”

    Katie Shaw Dinner · March 2026
  • OpenTable

    “First time at the Riverside choose the set menu. Food was hot and nicely presented. Overall very happy with our first visit.”

    Denise August 2026
  • Google

    “The food was delicious and the service great. This was the first time we have dined here since the change of chef and the food was exceptional! We will be back”

    Patrick Whittle Dinner · March 2026
  • Google

    “Cocktails were strong, mojitos crisp, zombies dangerously drinkable. Great food, great drinks, great night. Service was impeccable and couldn’t fault anything at all. Will definitely be back!”

    Jon Turner Dinner · February 2026
  • Google

    “We did the Sunday menu which was the Sunday lunch and I’ve got to say it’s one of the best dinners I’ve ever had😁. We eat out every week and this is my new favourite place.”

    Andy Dee Sunday lunch · August 2025

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Before you visit

Smart casual

Our dress code is smart casual throughout the restaurant and bar.

A cashless venue

We are card only. We accept contactless, chip & pin, Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Parking

Free parking is available to the rear of the building on Riverside Industrial Estate.

Dinner Club

An exclusive collaboration with Dan Merriman

Thu 1 Oct 6pm arrival, with fizz £80 per person

Celebrity chef Dan Merriman joins our head chef Katrina Kenny for one evening, and one menu written together.

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Private & Corporate

Events

Elegant spaces and tailored experiences for every occasion.

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Live

Entertainment

Live music and special nights to make your evenings even more special.

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