Ribble Valley

Situated in the heart of the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe is the food capital of Lancashire and proudly home to contemporary food haven Bowland Brewery, also known as Holmes Mill, It is a former working Mill which now hosts a food hall and one of the with the longest bars in Britain, it’s a not-to-be-missed venue on any group tour. Further heritage gems in the local area include Clitheroe Castle, Whalley Abbey, Roman Ribchester and the stunning Browsholme Hall.

Ribble Valley boasts an array of top-class and often unique group venues like the magnificent Stonyhurst College, a stunning location which famously inspired JRR Tolkien’s literary classic ‘Lord of the Rings’ and now hosts a fascinating museum which welcomes groups by appointment.

Discover the bustle of Clitheroe’s famous market or explore pretty villages, and for the perfect overnight accommodation for your group, Foxfields Country Hotel or Gibbon Bridge Hotel are ready to give you a warm Ribble Valley welcome. And don’t forget to head out on a countryside expedition through the much-loved Trough of Bowland.

Nestled at the foot of Whalley Nab, alongside the River Calder, lies the village of Whalley. It’s a place steeped in history, rural charm and natural beauty. Along the main street and cobbled side alleys there are numerous small and independent shops, restaurants, bistros, wine merchants and delicatessens just waiting to be discovered. Dotted throughout the village are - among others - exquisite jewellers, hair and beauty salons, and designer clothing boutiques. One of the village’s most popular places to visit is Whalley Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery dating from the 14th century. Another visitors’ delight is St Mary & All Saints Church, with three Saxon crosses dating from 628 AD. Whalley viaduct is the longest in Lancashire and has become a landmark in Ribble Valley. Coach parking is at the Bus Station, from where visitors can easily explore this historic village on foot.

Wherever you are in Ribble Valley, you’ll experience views you’ll never forget, such as must-visit landmarks like the scenic Pendle Hill - renowned for its connections to the Quaker movement and Lancashire witches.

And if it’s a local guide you need then we can arrange that too, with some thematic or historical tours to make your visit memorable.

To request a bespoke itinerary, tailored to the specific requirements of your group, contact tom.pridmore@ribblevalley.gov.uk or 01200 414496. www.visitribblevalley.co.uk

Clitheroe Castle Museum

Clitheroe Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 800 years. The Castle and grounds are open daily and free to visit. Stunning panoramic views of Ribble Valley’s beautiful, historic landscape can be seen from here which makes the climb worthwhile!

Visitors are transported through 350 million years of local history. The journey starts with the formation of the landscape we see today and why the Ribble Valley is a haven for unique wildlife. Moving through the galleries the captivating story of the Castle and surrounding area continues to unfold. From local industry and heroes to folklore and legends the exhibits, touchscreen animations and sound points make it an interactive experience. The Museum and Gift Shop are located in the former Steward’s House, a Grade II listed. There is an entry fee. Groups welcome by appointment, please note access restrictions.

School parties welcome, bespoke workshop sessions can be tailored to complement your curriculum

Castle Hill, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 1BA. 01200 424 568 | clitheroecastle@lancashire.gov.uk lancashire.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/museums/clitheroe-castle-museum

Clitheroe Market

- A big heart and a warm welcome

Clitheroe Historic Market is a place with a big heart and a warm welcome, where stallholders are more than happy to chat about their products to both local visitors and residents alike. And of course, in true market fashion, there are plenty of bargains to be discovered! You will find a combination longstanding traditional market stalls together with more recent additions that offer hand crafted products and homemade produce.

Market Days: Tuesday, Thursdays & Saturdays | 9 am-4pm it is easily accessible, just a short distance from the Bus and train Terminus, where coaches can park.

Events: Keep an eye open for special events held at the market, including Clitheroe annual Food festival where the market and the whole town become a showcase for food and drink.

Where are we?

Address: Market, Clitheroe Station Road, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 2JW clitheroemarket@ribblevalley.gov.uk | 01200 443012

Mrs Dowsons Farm Park

Mrs Dowsons Farm Park is a family-run farm that invites in visitors of all ages to explore the enriching experiences found on a farm! The farm is growing bigger and better each year with our family fun engaging events throughout the year, there is something for everyone! The motivations behind the farm park are driven by the desire to educate as many mini farmers (and big farmers) as possible on the wonders of farm life. Education is key here which is why we hold talks with the farmers as visitors adventure around, allowing the opportunity for them to get involved in hands-on activities such as feeding our new arrivals in Spring so that the little ones can really find their inner farmer!

Events includes: Lambing Live, Jurassic Adventure, Pumpkin Patch, Scare Kingdom & Christmas at the Farm Group visits: 10% off tickets for groups over 15 people www.mrsdowsons.co.uk

Foxfields Country Hotel

Situated in the scenic surroundings of the Ribble Valley, Foxfield’s Hotel consists of 44 bedrooms, including 28 spacious suites. All guests who have booked a room will have full access to the onsite pool, sauna, steam room and spa. The hotel has free wifi and parking as well as room service.

Whalley Rd, Billington, Clitheroe BB7 9HY 01254 822556 | foxfieldshotel.com

Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant

Award-winning hotel and gardens. Our thirty spacious bedrooms and split level suites offer luxury accommodation in the Ribble Valley and provide an ideal retreat at the end of your day. The rooms range from standard doubles & twins to suites and VIP suites with the ultimate in luxury being the Staple Oak Suite. Two of the rooms have been designed especially for guests with mobility special needs and are all on one level, close to reception. All the rooms are ensuite and a number of the suites have whirlpool baths; ideal for relaxing in after a day of walking. The Restaurant offers superb food, freshly cooked and locally sourced.

Chipping, PR3 2TQ

01995 61456 | www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk

Browsholme HallExclusive Groups & Day Coach Tours

Browsholme Hall has been the ancestral home of the Parkers; Bowbearers of the Forest of Bowland since Tudor times. Today it is still the family’s home and they invite visitors to enjoy its magnificent architecture, fabulous interiors and antique furnishings set in the stunning landscape of the Hodder Valley. Visitors will not only tour the remarkable antiquarian collection but truly gain the genuine feeling of a family home.

Our guided tours (approximately 1 hour) are tailored for all ages and interests. The guides captivate everyone who enjoys the rich heritage that a unique and ancient Lancastrian home has to offer. Group visitors can choose from a range of homemade refreshments, booked prior to their visit and freshly prepared on the day to be enjoyed either on arrival or after their tour.

Cow Ark, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 3DE hello@browsholme.com | 01254 827 160