FUN DAYS OUT – COME RAIN OR SHINE!
The team here at Live Magazines would like to extend a big ‘family’ welcome to you all, whether you’re here for just a day or two, a short break or an extended stay, there are plenty of things to see and do with the children, whatever the weather. Here’s just a sample of the wide range of activities on offer here – be sure to check out the websites for opening hours and new additions, but above all enjoy your time here in the beautiful Ribble Valley – see you again soon!
RAINY DAYS
Clitheroe Castle
Museum
A visit to Clitheroe Castle Museum is sure to take you on stimulating journey through 350 million years of British history. This historic landmark makes for a great day out for all the family as both parents and children adventure through the grounds and learn about the incredible heritage of the area whilst exploring the natural environment and the amazing artefacts held at the museum.
www.lancashire.gov.uk
Roefield Leisure
Clitheroe
There’s lots to do here on a rainy day including a fab climbing room which presents a challenge to beginners right through to expert climbers. Offering superb value for money and a friendly atmosphere, the indoor wall is the perfect place to learn climbing techniques. Climbing courses are run on a regular basis and give participants the opportunity to learn basic climbing skills.
www.roefield.co.uk
Ribchester
Roman Museum
There has been a museum at Ribchester for over 100 years offering one of the most educational and interesting Roman displays in the North West and a collection of Roman artefacts unrivalled in Lancashire. A new interactive 3D model of the fort allows visitors to explore a reconstructed fort, bathhouse and neighbouring settlement using state-of-the-art computer gaming technology.
www.ribchesterromanmuseum.org
FARMS AND ANIMALS
Bowland
Wild Boar Park
Situated in the picturesque Trough of Bowland next to the river Hodder, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife such as deer, llama, goats, meerkats and of course the wild boar for which the park has become famous. With activities such as chick stroking, lamb feeding, tractor and trailer rides as well as a children’s play area and café, the wild boar park is a great day out for children and parents alike.
www.wildboarpark.co.uk
Wellybobs
Wellybobs is an adventure farm aside from being home to many friendly farmyard animals and offers activities such as pony rides, racing cars, mini golf and archery. Many of the farms facilities are indoors and includes a play area and the animal barn with ‘cuddle corner’ it’s a wonderful weatherproof day out.
www.visitwellybobs.co.uk
Thornton Hall
Country Park
A family run, spotlessly clean, award winning country farm park just a stone’s throw from the Ribble Valley on the border of Pendle and the Yorkshire Dales. Experience hands on animal encounters on a traditional working farm, hitch a ride in a 4 x 4 ‘Adventure Experience’ and relax in the country tearoom while the little ones burn off the remainder of their energy in the huge fun filled Wizzick Play Barn – an informative family day out, rain or shine!
www.thorntonhallcountrypark.co.uk
ICE CREAM
Hudson’s
Located in the village of Chatburn for over 100 years, Hudson’s Ice Cream is a real ice cream destination for the young and old. All the ice cream is made on site using natural ingredients as they always have been and Hudson’s has become a bit of an ice cream institution among both the people of the Ribble Valley and those just passing through. Their signature flavours? White chocolate chip, and vanilla!
Hudson’s Ice Cream
2 Downham Road, Chatburn BB7 4AU 01200 441305
Mrs Dowson’s
All Mrs Dowson’s ice cream is produced using milk from the family run dairy farm where you can also visit the cows on site. With up to 50 flavours to choose from you’ll need more than one visit – flavours range from the traditional to the unusual – last year our favourites were pear drop closely followed by the fruity strawberry. Next time we’ll try something different – the Lancashire cheese perhaps?
Mrs Dowson’s
Hawkshaw Farm, Longsight Road Clayton le Dale BB2 7JA
01254 812407
Bashall Barn
Located at the entrance to the Trough of Bowland, Bashall Barn is not just an ice cream lover’s paradise but a real foodie destination. See how the milk from the Barnes family’s cows is transformed into delicious dreamy ice cream and enjoy the breathtaking views across the Ribble Valley whilst you munch your way through the variety of flavours on offer. Not in the mood for a cone – then try one of their ice cream sundaes instead but you may need two spoons!
Bashall Barn
Bashall Town, Clitheroe BB7 3LQ 01200 428964
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Brockholes
Nature just got closer! On the site of an old quarry an environment has been created which provides a habitat for lots of different wildlife. Hides, paths and viewing points have been built to allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife without disturbing it. Stroll by the river or come to any one of our organised events for children taking place throughout the year.
www.brockholes.org.uk
Gisburn Forest
Located within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Gisburn Forest offers fantastic mountain biking and walking with beautiful views. Glide easily along mellow trails by Bottoms Beck, twist and shout through Park Wood, dance with your bike down Hully Gully or grit your teeth and rush down the Bigfoot slab – everyone should find something that will make them grin.
www.visitlancashire.com
Braedens
Pony Trekking Centre
Pony trekking and horse riding centre set in the Forest of Bowland. This equestrian centre is set in beautiful open countryside on the side of Bleasdale Fell. The treks vary from one to three hours and are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
www.visitlancashire.com
