Mills, Museums & Monks

An area of outstanding natural beauty, well-known for its scenic countryside, delicious food and famous landmarks, Ribble Valley is at the official centre of the Kingdom and is a place infused with history.

The award-winning Clitheroe Castle is a major must-see landmark in Ribble Valley. Enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of the Valley from the top of the historic Keep, which is free to explore and learn more in the fascinating interactive museum. 

Close-by to Clitheroe Castle, you will find former textiles mill, Holmes Mill. Established in 1823, Holmes Mill is now a beautifully designed leisure venue, with its very own beer hall, food hall and hotel, as well as being home to the longest bar in the UK. 

The 14th Century Whalley Abbey is yet another famous visitor attraction, set in beautiful gardens and lush woodland beside the River Calder. Just 8 miles from Whalley Abbey lays the remains of a Cistercian Abbey in Sawley, founded in 1148 and located on the banks of the River Ribble. Here, you can explore the few significant structures of the buildings that remain, since Henry VIII’s dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536.

Located on the North bank of the River Ribble, you will find Lancashire’s only specialist Roman museum, in the picturesque Roman village of Ribchester. The museum was built above the remains of the headquarters building of the Roman fort and opened to the public, back in 1914. Each year, the museum holds an annual Roman re-enactment, where visitors can come along and watch exciting and realistic demonstrations, based on the everyday and military life of the Romans.

Set in a beautiful and rural landscape in the Forest of Bowland, you will find privately owned Elizabethan home, Browsholme Hall. After 14 generations, it is claimed to be the oldest surviving family home in Lancashire. Visitors are invited in to the home to experience a guided tour and explore its beautiful architecture, fabulous interior and antique furnishings.

Longridge Heritage Centre allows people to collect information based on Longridge and the surrounding area. Open to the public, you can visit the centre and browse through photographs or even experience one of the frequently changing exhibitions. You can even attend talks on local heritage topics that are held throughout the year.

To find out more about Ribble Valley’s heritage go to www.ribblevalley.co.uk