GATEWAY TO THE VALLEY…

Olivia Beaty visits the beautiful historic town of Longridge, which is located on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley

Longridge, which is situated at the end of Longridge Fell above the River Ribble, boasts stunning scenery and is neighboured by Grimsargh and the Roman town of Ribchester.

The town itself holds its own fair share of history as it was once a hub for cotton mills and stone quarrying. The quarries supplied stone for Lancaster Town Hall and the docks at Liverpool. The stone was carried by a railway, which was operated literally by horsepower. The Old Station Café and Visitor Centre situated in the centre of Longridge are placed where the railway line once operated from 1840 to 1967.

Longridge is a fantastic place to live with local amenities within walking distance. The houses differ from quirky cottages to brand new family homes. The town has a great community spirit and according to the last census in 2011, the population is around 8,000 people. The town may be small but there is never a dull moment as it hosts several events throughout the year including the annual Longridge Field Day, which takes place in June, and last year the town supported the Tour of Britain when the cycle race passed through the centre.

The area has changed dramatically over the years and it is now a busy hub of thriving local businesses, schools and shops. The Longridge shopping experience is a real treat, the high street offers a wide range of shops and boutiques as well as an art gallery.

There are plenty of cafés and restaurants too offering delicious food, from a snack at lunch time to an enjoyable evening meal. Local pubs and wine bars have a wide range of drinks from quirky cocktails to locally brewed ale.

If the great outdoors is more your thing why not embark on one of the many walks around Longridge, take a trip up to Longridge Fell and appreciate the town from above. There is ample parking and great public transport links so come and spend a day in Longridge and see what it has to offer!

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Tedd Walmsley

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