Village Life

Bashall Eaves and Bashall Town

Right in the heart of rural Ribble Valley Bashall Town is home to Browsholme Hall, a Grade I listed historic house open for events, tours, and weddings. Just down the road from Bashall you will find Melt, where the most exquisite handmade candles are produced. All the candles are displayed around a central fragrance bar where you can take time to select your preferred choice. In the charming shop you will not only be able to select from a range of candles but some beautiful organic skincare ranges, niche perfumes, cashmere, leather goods and jewellery. Melt offer a diverse, calm, and sophisticated shopping experience. The adjacent Chandlery and Reading Room now perfectly complement the main gift shop.

Please do not be deceived by the Town tag – Bashall is a village!

Bolton-by-Bowland​

After walking the three-mile village trail which also passes through some of the Forest of Bowland’s finest parkland, a welcome awaits at the Coach & Horses, a country inn offering great food and luxurious accommodation. For splendid bed and breakfast with fantastic dinner options, Middle Flass Lodge is on the outskirts of the village, and just out of the village, Fooden Farm has a beautiful 3 Bedroom barn conversion set on a working farm. Harrop Fold Cottages are located in the nearby hamlet of Harrop which is surrounded by stunning scenery. Historic delights include the remains of a 13th century market cross and stocks and the 13th century St Peter and St Paul church with its unusual memorial. If gardening and outdoor lining is your passion the award winning Holden Clough Nursery is a horticulturalists dream.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_CoachHorses.pdf

Chatburn

The village of Chatburn is another tasty surprise, home to the award-winning Roy Porter’s Butchers, as celebrated on BBC Radio 2 by DJ Chris Evans for its outstanding pork pies. Just over the road you will also discover the most delicious homemade ice cream at Hudson’s, a popular local business that has been running for over one hundred years. Enjoying stunning views across the rest of Bowland, a pretty amenity area and a riverside walk make Chatburn an attractive place to visit. 

Chipping

This picturesque Bowland village with pubs, cafés and a farm shop offers a warm welcome to visitors. The village shop Brabin’s is believed to be the longest continuing trading shop in the country and has, during its 350-year history, had roles ranging from baker to butcher. Visitors appreciate the village’s charm and tranquillity, plus its abundance of flower power. Indeed, it has won Britain in Bloom recognition. 

The gardens at Gibbon Bridge Hotel are the perfect place for afternoon tea whilst on the outskirts of the village, you will find the famous Wild Boar Park, a family attraction well worth a visit. 

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_Chipping-Farm-Shop.pdf

Downham

Downham’s attractive cottages, stream and absence of overhead wires, aerials and signage make it a sought- after location for film and TV companies. Often described as the most beautiful village in Lancashire, a visitor information display at the village car park provides details of local walks and places to visit. The Assheton Arms can be found in the centre of this village, enjoying stunning views across Pendle Hill. This historic pub is popular with walkers and cyclists and also offers accommodation, should you wish to stay longer in pure luxury.  

The Downham estate has been in the Assheton family since 1588 and they have ensured that this delightful landscape and beautiful village have been carefully preserved. 

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_AsshetonArms.pdf

Dunsop Bridge

You will find Dunsop Bridge at “the centre of the kingdom”. Located on part of the King’s Duchy of Lancaster estate this UK landmark village offers delightful walks, a super playground and refreshments.  

The much-loved Puddleducks has long been a popular choice for walkers, families and cyclists seeking food and drink, while the village green is beloved by all age groups. St Hubert’s Church, a small Catholic church designed by Edward Pugin, reputedly built from the winnings of the racehorse Kettledrum at the 1861 Derby is a short walk from the village centre. 

Gisburn

Historically within the West Riding of Yorkshire, Gisburn lies eight miles (13 km) northeast of Clitheroe right on the border of North Yorkshire. Gisburn is first named in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it takes the form Ghiseburne. The name is next attested in the twelfth century, as Giselburn.

Nestled in the village you will find a surprising hidden gem, an Italian restaurant, La Locanda; a cosy cottage restaurant, full of original, rustic charm which is recognised as one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in Britain. Its menu of handcrafted, authentic dishes showcase wonderful Lancashire produce along with the very best Italy has to offer.

Just along the A59 towards Clitheroe is Stirk House Hotel. With ivy clad walls standing for nearly four hundred years and a crackling fireplace welcoming guests since 1933, Stirk House offers contemporary luxury in truly historic surroundings. Whether you are looking to explore the local area, have a memorable dining experience or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, Stirk House offers everything you could possibly need for ultimate relaxation and escapism.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_Eight-at-Gazegill.pdf and WalksWithTaste24_StirkHouse.pdf

Hurst Green

The famous Tolkien Trail walk starts at the Shireburn Arms, a country pub, and a popular wedding venue, which provides a warm welcome. The route passes by renowned Stonyhurst College and the ancient Cromwell’s Bridge, taking in all the abundant natural beauty of the local landscape. Here too you will find Millie’s tearoom and ice cream parlour.

Alden Cottage on the edge of Longridge Fell provides self-catering accommodation, while Little Oakhurst is the choice for a luxury yurt experience complete with hot tub and views of Pendle Hill.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_ShireburnArms.pdf

Mellor

Mellor is a charming village which enjoys panoramic views, especially if you take a walk up to the millennium viewpoint pillar. In the heart of the village, you will find the Millstone Mellor a 17th-century coaching inn and a great place to pause a while. The Inn is owned by Daniel Thwaites, a well-known Lancashire beer maker founded in 1807, and their brewery is very close by. In fact, sometimes you can see the brewery dray horses being exercised in local lanes.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_Millstone-at-Mellor.pdf

Mitton

For a tiny hamlet, Mitton has an outstanding visitor offer. With a welcoming open fire in winter and a riverbank terrace garden with seating in summer, plus an outstanding menu and drinks selection, the Aspinall Arms is enduringly popular. The fine mediaeval All Hallows Church is also not to be missed. Nearby Mitton Hall is a 14th century country house hotel offering luxurious accommodation. It is one of the Valley’s leading wedding venues with elegant interiors, a brasserie, a bar and outstanding views. The Three Fishes restaurant is also in Mitton. Here you will discover a true garden to fork experience and even tour the vegetable garden where much of their fresh produce is grown. 

If you are looking for the latest luxury in self-catering, then look no further than Bowland Retreat Lodges offering exclusive accommodation with panoramic views across Ribble Valley to Pendle Hill. 

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_AspinallArms.pdf

Newton in Bowland

This pretty Bowland village on the banks of the Hodder is home to acclaimed inn The Parker’s Arms, one of Britain’s top gastropubs. Its Friends Meeting House dates back to 1767 and from the village you can savour spectacular views of Waddington Fell and surrounding hills. Newton is home to the award winning Parkers Arms where you will experience great British dishes using the finest regional produce.

Ribchester

Renowned for its Roman museum, pubs, three historic churches, a pottery painting cafe, and unusual almshouses, not to mention a fabulous playground, a Millennium Sculpture Garden and artist’s studio, this riverside village is well worth a visit. 

For outstanding self-catering accommodation Ribble Valley Holiday Homes is a unique hamlet of quality accommodation. 

A great way to discover Ribchester is to follow the ‘Walks with Taste,’ a circular walk starting from the White Bull Pub, a great hostelry to return to for a delicious post walk meal.  

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_WhiteBull.pdf

Sawley

The remains of Sawley Abbey, a Cistercian Abbey founded in 1148, nestles against a beautiful backdrop of hills. This ancient site is free to visit. Afterwards, enjoy refreshments at the nearby award-winning riverside pub the Spread Eagle Inn. Its unique and versatile function room is popular for weddings and a range of events.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_SpreadEagle.pdf

Slaidburn

From its source high in the Bowland hills the river Hodder continues its journey south passing through the handsome ‘caught in time’ village of Slaidburn which is hidden by neighbouring hills. Look out for the 300-year-old village school, historic church, village shop and the delightful stone cottages. Here you will find the Riverbank Tearooms and the adjacent riverside meadow is always a great choice for picnics. The Hark to Bounty pub and the wildflower filled Coronation Meadows are also well worth a visit. Diary date: Slaidburn hosts an annual weekend Steam Fair, see page 61 for full Ribble Valley events information. 

Waddington

This picture postcard village at the foot of Waddington Fell boasts three fabulous pubs, an historic church, and a much-admired riverside garden open to the public. Comfortable accommodation and food can be found at the Waddington Arms or the Lower Buck, both located in the heart of the village. The annual Duck race is an event not to miss. 

Seek out Melt, a specialist producer of handmade fine fragrance candles. Located on Twitter Lane at Backridge, Melt offers much to delight in, including skincare and perfume ranges. 

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_WaddintonArms.pdf and WalksWithTaste24_LowerBuck.pdf

West Bradford

Mahatma Gandhi stayed here during his tour of Lancashire cotton mills in 1931 and was another convert to the delights of the Valley, commenting on its beauty. 

Nearly a century on you can stay at the Three Rivers Caravan Park. Set in a 22-acre ancient woodland, its café offers home cooking with light bites, local produce and crafted sweet treats. The Grade II listed 3 Millstones Inn, located in the village’s centre is a favourite with diners too. 

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_ThreeMillstones.pdf

Whitewell

Many journey to this tiny hamlet to enjoy the splendid experience of visiting the Inn at Whitewell on the Duchy of Lancaster estate. Once a small manor house, the earliest parts of the property date back to the 1300s when it was home to the Keeper of the King’s Forest of Bowland. Set above the River Hodder, this 18th century former coaching inn overlooks open countryside and fells. 

The venue, with its wood panelling, fireplaces and antique furniture offers bar meals or more formal dining. Many of the bedrooms have fireplaces, exposed beams, and Victorian cabinet baths and some have four posters and riverside views.

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_InnAtWhitewell.pdf

Worston

This village is an ideal base for walks to Pendle and on to Downham. Families, walkers, and cyclists are welcome at the Calf’s Head which offers a relaxed eating and dining experience, an open fire, a popular Sunday carvery, and twelve characterful en-suite rooms add to its year-round appeal, while sweeping views of Pendle can be enjoyed from its large and charming garden. Chestnut Cottage also offers a very comfortable self-catering choice in the village centre. 

On the outskirts of the village, Angram Green caravan park is the ultimate scenic getaway destination set beneath the awesome Pendle hill with views across to the Yorkshire Dales.  

Why not explore the local countryside here by following one of our Walks with Taste WalksWithTaste24_CalfsHead.pdf