Sadly, no naked Charlize Theron here, but this is my invaluable
guide to The Ribble Valley.
Three Days In The Valley
Sadly, no naked Charlize Theron here, but this is my invaluable
guide to The Ribble Valley.
How to Get There? The area is easily accessible from the M6, using junctions 31 or 31a and then heading East. There's a map of the area available by clicking HERE
Where Should I Stay? We stayed just outside the
small village of Chipping, which is about 7 miles north of Longbridge. This area is
quite beautiful and has some amazing views and walks. Avoid Longbridge itself as it
is mostly residential, but do consider the areas around Whalley, Clitheroe and Ribchester
- they are fairly central to what the area has to offer. Any further north than the
Chipping area becomes very 'out of it' and very rural. We stayed at www.wolfenmill.co.uk 
which is a series of self-contained apartments around a
central courtyard - very, very nice, but could be pricey if only two of you.
What to see and do?
Before you go, as well as taking my useful guide with you, be sure to check out Ribble Valley Council's site at www.ribblevalley.gov.uk. For information about the towns and villages of Ribble Valley, use this short-cut
 
Chipping - A very beautiful small 1000 year old village, containing just 3 pubs, 3 shops and a cafe. Check out the church of St Bartholomews (left) and be sure to have a pint of 'Black Sheep' in one (or all !) of the pubs. You should also research the tale of Lizzy Dean, or you can cheat by clicking HERE. During the August bank holiday, the Chipping Show is on, which is well worth a visit. |
 
Whalley Abbey - Whalley itself is nice enough, but doesn't have a lot to offer to be honest. The ruined abbey however is a must. It costs around £3 to get in, but there is loads to explore and you are free to roam anywhere, or follow the DIY guide. You can check out the original entrance gate for free as the road runs through it, but watch out for the pillar !!! |
   
Ribchester
- A village built on the site of a Roman fort, no words can do justice to this place, as
it is so picturesque. The village fills with tourists very quickly, so be sure to go in
the morning or you won't be able to park. If you have kids, DON'T ignore the amazing
play area opposite the car-park. Follow the signs for the museum, and you'll go past the
White Bull PH (left) with it's original Roman columns by the front door. You should take a
few minutes to soak up the River Ribble as it meanders by Ribchester (middle-left), before
turning left to go and see the Roman Baths (middle-right). The museum is worth visiting if you are interested in Roman times, but whatever your choice, be sure to check out St Wilfrid's Church (right) and go inside for the DIY tour. |
  
Clitheroe - A must for a visit is this place. Tuesday is Market day, although I wasn't overly impressed with it. If you do like markets, head here on a Sunday for a massive car-boot sale and market just outside (follow the signs). Check out D Byrne & Co. on King Street for an enormous whiskey and wine selection and the church of St Michael and St John is worth a quick look. The tourist information centre (Castle Street) staff are incredibly helpful. The Castle (left) is well worth a (free) visit. If the sun is shining, you MUST visit the area of Edisford Bridge (right) as you head out of the town towards Longridge. You'll find a large play area, model train, ice-cream, pitch & putt and loads of people bathing in the shallow (and safe) River Ribble. |
  
Skipton - Although strictly just outside the Ribble Valley, it would be a crime to visit this area and not go to Skipton. Boat trips along the canal are popular, but you will be queuing for a while as the ½ hour trips only take 12 people at a time. You can however take a nice walk along the canal (at about the same speed !!) and feed the ducks. Be sure to visit the church next to the castle (left), or just chill out in the grounds like every else seems to do. Skipton Castle (middle) is a must. Fantastically preserved (it's 900 years old), it costs £4.60 to get in, but is well worth it. You can picnic in the grounds and take the DIY tour, which includes the courtyard (right) with it's 350 year old yew tree. There are loads of staff milling around to answer the most stupid of questions, like my legendary "Who lives in the new bit?" Ans: "New ! Sir, Henry VIII had that section built for his niece 300 years ago" As you enter/leave Skipton, try to catch a glimpse of Broughton Hall from the main road. |
Other Stuff to Do
On this page are the places I visited, but other members of our group went to other places, and their recommendations are: Browsholme Hall - check for opening periods as you can't just turn up, click HERE for information. Settle - Like Skipton, a bit away from the Ribble Valley area, but a very historic and pleasant town. The Tourist Information (01729 825192) can provide you with a walking DIY guide to the town. Mike's Top 5 Things to Do:
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