Longridge

Longridge is so aptly named as it sits on the hilltop, on a long ridge, with stunning views across the surrounding countryside.

Longridge
Longridge is so aptly named as it sits on the hilltop, a long ridge, with stunning views across the surrounding countryside. The ideal place to begin your visit is the Heritage and Visitor Centre located in the Old Station, right in the centre of the town. Open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday, here you can find out about Longridge’s fascinating history, browse the old photographs on the town archive, or view one of their regularly changing exhibitions. You will be able to pick up local walking guides, history trails and a variety of information to help you discover more about this attractive town.

Much of this former cotton mill town was built from the distinctive sandstone quarried locally, and so much of the town has remained largely unchanged in appearance since the 1800s. One of the most historically significant parts of the town is Club Row, a row of twenty solid workmen’s cottages built when Longridge was just a village, and textiles were the big employer. A blue plaque explains their significance and this terrace, erected between 1774 and 1804, and is believed to be the oldest surviving example of properties built by a building society in the world.
The main street, Berry Lane is very much the hub of the town with a thriving selection of shops where you will discover a wide variety of charmingly unique art, crafts, homeware, jewellery, gifts, designer clothing, shoes and accessories. There is a pleasant blend of longstanding family businesses and more recent arrivals.

One welcoming inn, located just on the outskirts of Longridge, is the Derby Arms. Its atmospheric tap room, feature fireplaces and larger central bar create a series of ambient spaces perfect for drinks with friends or a special dining experience. Close by is Little Farm shop and café, a great place to buy locally sourced produce and stop a while for some home-made cake and tea.
If you are seeking self-catering accommodation in the heart of the nearby open countryside then the Shippon is a good example of a beautifully appointed, quality property available to let for a short break or longer holiday.

Longridge is lucky enough to have one of Lancashire’s quirkiest cinemas, the Palace, which started life as a weaving shed and during its time has been a music hall, roller skating rink, a bingo hall and, finally a cinema in the 1970s. The cinema has been recently refurbished in a clever restoration which retains the character of the building whilst hosting a modern and diverse range of entertainment. Owner Lara Hewitt has been keen to retain some of the old-world charm of the cinema where hot tea is still served in real mugs and the national anthem is played before each film. Ribble Valley is very proud to host one of the last remaining independent cinemas.

Two major events form an important part of the town’s heritage, Longridge Field Day is an annual celebration, community run, and complete with imaginative floats, fancy dress and decorations throughout the town. It provides an opportunity to witness a great traditional event and is held in June.

Goosnargh and Longridge Show which is held on in the second Saturday each July is another important event and a celebration of food and farming in the locality. The show is a great day out for people of all ages, and a great emphasis is placed on providing entertainment for young visitors. 

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