A historic hilltop pub with stunning views is being hailed a "hidden gem" in Cheshire

With stunning views out across Cheshire, this hilltop pub is hailed a "hidden gem" with bags of history and character. The Castle in Halton is no doubt well-known to those living in the area but for those of residing further afield, a trip provides a welcome discovery.

The pub stands at the top of Halton Hill and adjoins the ruins of Grade I listed Halton Castle, which in its current state dates back to the 13th century having replaced the previous castle constructed in the same location in 1071. The pub itself was a former courthouse built nearly 300 years ago in Cheshire.

The Grade II* listed building reportedly housed prisoners in cells in the basement with the courtroom based on the first floor - now housing the restaurant and bar. There is a fresh modern feel inside, but the character of the building has not diminished and you instantly get a feel of the history once you've climbed the steps and entered.

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The Castle offers both lunch and evening menus with classic meals to choose from, as well as tapas style dishes and children's food, reporters Cheshire Live. And with such a lovely hilltop location, you can expect stunning views out across Runcorn and Widnes from the hilltop - especially in this glorious summer weather - and on a clear day you can see as far as North Wales and to the Peak District.

The evening menu at The Castle boasts a range of small plates in the tapas style suitable for sharing. They include the likes of pork belly, salmon skewers, lamb koftas, crispy calamari and watermelon with feta all priced from £6.

But at lunchtimes you can expect standard pub grub fodder - the likes of battered fish and chips (£12.95),