Explore the Ribble Valley

Last Updated on

Where Ancient History Meets Natural Beauty

Welcome to the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) where the pace of life slows down just enough for you to take it all in. Whether you are here for a challenging hike up Pendle Hill, a stroll through a medieval abbey, or a boutique shopping trip in a historic market town, there is a corner of the valley waiting for you.


๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Towns & Villages

Discover the character of our local communities. Each has its own story to tell, from the bustling heart of the valley to quiet riverside hamlets.

  • Clitheroe: Our historic market town, overlooked by a 12th-century Norman Castle.
  • Whalley: Famous for its 14th-century Cistercian Abbey and high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Longridge: The gateway to the Fells, perfect for walkers and local art lovers.
  • Dunsop Bridge: The official geographic center of the Kingdom (and home to excellent ice cream).

๐Ÿฅพ Walks & Landscapes

The Ribble Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the iconic silhouette of Pendle Hill to the gentle meanderings of the Ribble Way, there is a trail for every ability.

  • The Tolkien Trail: Follow the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien through the landscapes that inspired Middle-earth.
  • Forest of Bowland: Explore wild, heather-clad moors and deep valleys.
  • Riverside Strolls: Enjoy easy-access paths along the River Hodder and the River Ribble.

๐Ÿฐ History & Heritage

Step back in time. Our valley is steeped in legends of witches, monks, and industrial pioneers.

  • Clitheroe Castle Museum: 350 years of local history with panoramic views of the valley.
  • Whalley Abbey: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Cistercian monastery.
  • Stonyhurst College: Visit the world-renowned Jesuit college and its stunning gardens.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Ribble Valley

We know that a trip isn’t complete without your four-legged friend. The Ribble Valley is incredibly welcoming to dogs, with many of our best pubs, cafes, and hotels offering “paws-on-the-floor” hospitality.

Top Tip: Check out our “Dog-Friendly” tag on the blog for a list of pubs that offer treats and water bowls!


Plan Your Visit

Getting Here: The Ribble Valley is easily accessible by rail (Clitheroe Line) and road, located just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway. Parking: Find information on long-stay and short-stay car parks in our central hubs.

About the author

Latest Posts

  • The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Day in Clitheroe

    The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Day in Clitheroe

    Paws-itively Perfect Adventures for You & Your Four-Legged Friend The Ribble Valley is a paradise for dogs and their owners, and its vibrant heart, Clitheroe, is no exception. With sprawling green spaces, welcoming pubs, and charming shops, you and your furry companion can enjoy a full day of adventure without leaving anyone behind. Here is

    Read more โ†’

  • Why Winter is the Best Time for a Ribble Valley Mini-Break

    Why Winter is the Best Time for a Ribble Valley Mini-Break

    Embrace the Hygge: Roaring Fires, Crisp Walks & Festive Cheer While the Ribble Valley sparkles in summer, there is a special, enchanting magic that descends with the colder months. Winter in the Valley isn’t about hunkering down; it is about embracing the season. Think crisp, invigorating walks, cozy nights by the fire, exquisite comfort food,

    Read more โ†’

  • Where to Find the Best Sunday Roast in the Forest of Bowland

    Where to Find the Best Sunday Roast in the Forest of Bowland

    Your Guide to the Ultimate Weekend Comfort Food Nothing quite says “Ribble Valley weekend” like a hearty Sunday roast. After a bracing walk through the fells or a leisurely morning, there is nothing more satisfying than settling into a cozy pub for perfectly cooked meat, crispy roast potatoes, and lashings of rich gravy. The Forest

    Read more โ†’

Explore the Ribble Valley

Published:

Updated:

Author:

Where Ancient History Meets Natural Beauty

Welcome to the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) where the pace of life slows down just enough for you to take it all in. Whether you are here for a challenging hike up Pendle Hill, a stroll through a medieval abbey, or a boutique shopping trip in a historic market town, there is a corner of the valley waiting for you.


๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Towns & Villages

Discover the character of our local communities. Each has its own story to tell, from the bustling heart of the valley to quiet riverside hamlets.

  • Clitheroe: Our historic market town, overlooked by a 12th-century Norman Castle.
  • Whalley: Famous for its 14th-century Cistercian Abbey and high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Longridge: The gateway to the Fells, perfect for walkers and local art lovers.
  • Dunsop Bridge: The official geographic center of the Kingdom (and home to excellent ice cream).

๐Ÿฅพ Walks & Landscapes

The Ribble Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the iconic silhouette of Pendle Hill to the gentle meanderings of the Ribble Way, there is a trail for every ability.

  • The Tolkien Trail: Follow the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien through the landscapes that inspired Middle-earth.
  • Forest of Bowland: Explore wild, heather-clad moors and deep valleys.
  • Riverside Strolls: Enjoy easy-access paths along the River Hodder and the River Ribble.

๐Ÿฐ History & Heritage

Step back in time. Our valley is steeped in legends of witches, monks, and industrial pioneers.

  • Clitheroe Castle Museum: 350 years of local history with panoramic views of the valley.
  • Whalley Abbey: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Cistercian monastery.
  • Stonyhurst College: Visit the world-renowned Jesuit college and its stunning gardens.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Ribble Valley

We know that a trip isn’t complete without your four-legged friend. The Ribble Valley is incredibly welcoming to dogs, with many of our best pubs, cafes, and hotels offering “paws-on-the-floor” hospitality.

Top Tip: Check out our “Dog-Friendly” tag on the blog for a list of pubs that offer treats and water bowls!


Plan Your Visit

Getting Here: The Ribble Valley is easily accessible by rail (Clitheroe Line) and road, located just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway. Parking: Find information on long-stay and short-stay car parks in our central hubs.

Explore the Ribble Valley

Published:

Updated:

Author:

Where Ancient History Meets Natural Beauty

Welcome to the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) where the pace of life slows down just enough for you to take it all in. Whether you are here for a challenging hike up Pendle Hill, a stroll through a medieval abbey, or a boutique shopping trip in a historic market town, there is a corner of the valley waiting for you.


๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Towns & Villages

Discover the character of our local communities. Each has its own story to tell, from the bustling heart of the valley to quiet riverside hamlets.

  • Clitheroe: Our historic market town, overlooked by a 12th-century Norman Castle.
  • Whalley: Famous for its 14th-century Cistercian Abbey and high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Longridge: The gateway to the Fells, perfect for walkers and local art lovers.
  • Dunsop Bridge: The official geographic center of the Kingdom (and home to excellent ice cream).

๐Ÿฅพ Walks & Landscapes

The Ribble Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the iconic silhouette of Pendle Hill to the gentle meanderings of the Ribble Way, there is a trail for every ability.

  • The Tolkien Trail: Follow the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien through the landscapes that inspired Middle-earth.
  • Forest of Bowland: Explore wild, heather-clad moors and deep valleys.
  • Riverside Strolls: Enjoy easy-access paths along the River Hodder and the River Ribble.

๐Ÿฐ History & Heritage

Step back in time. Our valley is steeped in legends of witches, monks, and industrial pioneers.

  • Clitheroe Castle Museum: 350 years of local history with panoramic views of the valley.
  • Whalley Abbey: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Cistercian monastery.
  • Stonyhurst College: Visit the world-renowned Jesuit college and its stunning gardens.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Ribble Valley

We know that a trip isn’t complete without your four-legged friend. The Ribble Valley is incredibly welcoming to dogs, with many of our best pubs, cafes, and hotels offering “paws-on-the-floor” hospitality.

Top Tip: Check out our “Dog-Friendly” tag on the blog for a list of pubs that offer treats and water bowls!


Plan Your Visit

Getting Here: The Ribble Valley is easily accessible by rail (Clitheroe Line) and road, located just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway. Parking: Find information on long-stay and short-stay car parks in our central hubs.

Explore the Ribble Valley

Published:

Updated:

Author:

Where Ancient History Meets Natural Beauty

Welcome to the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) where the pace of life slows down just enough for you to take it all in. Whether you are here for a challenging hike up Pendle Hill, a stroll through a medieval abbey, or a boutique shopping trip in a historic market town, there is a corner of the valley waiting for you.


๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Towns & Villages

Discover the character of our local communities. Each has its own story to tell, from the bustling heart of the valley to quiet riverside hamlets.

  • Clitheroe: Our historic market town, overlooked by a 12th-century Norman Castle.
  • Whalley: Famous for its 14th-century Cistercian Abbey and high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Longridge: The gateway to the Fells, perfect for walkers and local art lovers.
  • Dunsop Bridge: The official geographic center of the Kingdom (and home to excellent ice cream).

๐Ÿฅพ Walks & Landscapes

The Ribble Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the iconic silhouette of Pendle Hill to the gentle meanderings of the Ribble Way, there is a trail for every ability.

  • The Tolkien Trail: Follow the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien through the landscapes that inspired Middle-earth.
  • Forest of Bowland: Explore wild, heather-clad moors and deep valleys.
  • Riverside Strolls: Enjoy easy-access paths along the River Hodder and the River Ribble.

๐Ÿฐ History & Heritage

Step back in time. Our valley is steeped in legends of witches, monks, and industrial pioneers.

  • Clitheroe Castle Museum: 350 years of local history with panoramic views of the valley.
  • Whalley Abbey: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Cistercian monastery.
  • Stonyhurst College: Visit the world-renowned Jesuit college and its stunning gardens.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Ribble Valley

We know that a trip isn’t complete without your four-legged friend. The Ribble Valley is incredibly welcoming to dogs, with many of our best pubs, cafes, and hotels offering “paws-on-the-floor” hospitality.

Top Tip: Check out our “Dog-Friendly” tag on the blog for a list of pubs that offer treats and water bowls!


Plan Your Visit

Getting Here: The Ribble Valley is easily accessible by rail (Clitheroe Line) and road, located just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway. Parking: Find information on long-stay and short-stay car parks in our central hubs.

Explore the Ribble Valley

Published:

Updated:

Author:

Where Ancient History Meets Natural Beauty

Welcome to the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) where the pace of life slows down just enough for you to take it all in. Whether you are here for a challenging hike up Pendle Hill, a stroll through a medieval abbey, or a boutique shopping trip in a historic market town, there is a corner of the valley waiting for you.


๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Towns & Villages

Discover the character of our local communities. Each has its own story to tell, from the bustling heart of the valley to quiet riverside hamlets.

  • Clitheroe: Our historic market town, overlooked by a 12th-century Norman Castle.
  • Whalley: Famous for its 14th-century Cistercian Abbey and high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Longridge: The gateway to the Fells, perfect for walkers and local art lovers.
  • Dunsop Bridge: The official geographic center of the Kingdom (and home to excellent ice cream).

๐Ÿฅพ Walks & Landscapes

The Ribble Valley is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the iconic silhouette of Pendle Hill to the gentle meanderings of the Ribble Way, there is a trail for every ability.

  • The Tolkien Trail: Follow the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkien through the landscapes that inspired Middle-earth.
  • Forest of Bowland: Explore wild, heather-clad moors and deep valleys.
  • Riverside Strolls: Enjoy easy-access paths along the River Hodder and the River Ribble.

๐Ÿฐ History & Heritage

Step back in time. Our valley is steeped in legends of witches, monks, and industrial pioneers.

  • Clitheroe Castle Museum: 350 years of local history with panoramic views of the valley.
  • Whalley Abbey: Explore the atmospheric ruins of a Cistercian monastery.
  • Stonyhurst College: Visit the world-renowned Jesuit college and its stunning gardens.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Ribble Valley

We know that a trip isn’t complete without your four-legged friend. The Ribble Valley is incredibly welcoming to dogs, with many of our best pubs, cafes, and hotels offering “paws-on-the-floor” hospitality.

Top Tip: Check out our “Dog-Friendly” tag on the blog for a list of pubs that offer treats and water bowls!


Plan Your Visit

Getting Here: The Ribble Valley is easily accessible by rail (Clitheroe Line) and road, located just 30 minutes from the M6 motorway. Parking: Find information on long-stay and short-stay car parks in our central hubs.