T

he secret to a long life? It’s right here in Rawtenstall. At least that’s what the people at Fitzpatrick’s reckon.

Step inside this Victorian “pub” and instead of the usual frothy-topped pints of bitter, you’ll see shelves piled high with colourful concoctions like Vitalo Herbal Tonic, Cream Soda and jars of suspect-looking cordials. Welcome to Britain’s last Temperance bar, opened by a family of Irish herbalists way back in the 1800s – and still in rude health today, by the looks of things.

So where do you start? How about a glass of blood tonic madam (which actually tastes of raspberries, despite the scary name)? For a true taste of history, though, we recommend the Sarsaparilla Cordial – a classic 18th- and 19th-century drink, with a woody flavour and detoxifying properties. Lord knows, we could all do with a bit of that.

Continue the health-kick among the bar’s fusty shelves, piled high with Kilner jars of traditional remedies like liquorice root and comfrey leaf, or move on to the old-fashioned goodies like aniseed balls and bullseyes.

You’re not going to drink anything alcoholic, but you know what? You’ll definitely leave Fitzpatricks in good spirits.