Explore your Local Landscape
Drive less than an hour out of Preston and you are in the glorious picture postcard region of the Ribble Valley
The Ribble Valley is often in the headlines for all the right reasons. Award-winning restaurants, a top tourist destination and has also often been described as one of the best places to live in the UK. If you’re intending to make the short trip this summer, you’ll be assured of both a warm welcome and a host of things to do across a broad range of fun activities.
The Ribble Valley is synonymous with great food and drink, the main showcase for our producers being the Clitheroe Food Festival on 10th August. However, there are many other similar events around the area which would make a great day out. The award-winning gastro pubs await alongside an abundance of fine dining options, delicious home-made treats in the local cafes and of course a wide selection of options for the quintessential afternoon tea.
It isn’t just about food though! The Ribble Valley is the perfect place to enjoy many rural shows spread across the summer months. These are great events for the whole family and have a unique blend of agriculture, live performances, domestic animals, plus you’re never too far away from delicious food and drink. Local events are plentiful and sit alongside the flagship of the Royal Lancashire Show in July.
This year there’s plenty of art and culture, which has been added to the repertoire of summer events. A new and exciting literature and film festival set at the magnificent Stonyhurst College and complemented by food and literature at the Michelin star restaurant, Northcote. There are also art walks, ghost walks and a myriad of music events across a host of genres for you to enjoy. In addition, the main market towns of Clitheroe, Longridge and the village of Whalley have a multitude of independent businesses to explore.
You can’t, of course, ignore the stunning scenery for which the Ribble Valley is famed for. This incredible backdrop is the perfect setting for countless walks through breathtaking countryside and riverbanks and families, dogs and cyclists are all welcome in many of the post walk pubs and cafes along the routes.
If you decide to extend your stay, an increasing number of accommodation options are available from quirky and luxurious shepherds huts, to yurts and more traditional hotel accommodation. It also has great lodges and caravan parks in abundance, which will suit all tastes and budgets.
It’s going to be a magical summer here in the Ribble Valley. Please enjoy everything it has to offer and support the local economy, you won’t be disappointed.
