Spirit of the Ribble Valley

DAY 1

Journey from your home station to Accrington and, on arrival, we will make our way to the Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa, our base for the next four nights. We enjoy free time to explore our new surroundings before meeting for our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

After breakfast this morning, our private coach takes us to Pendle Heritage Centre where we explore the Museum and beautiful Walled Garden, before continuing our journey around the Bowland Forest to the bustling heart of the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe. Here, we can climb up to the 800-year-old castle ruins for amazing views across the Ribble Valley or explore Castle Museum and its many galleries! We may also have time to explore the former textiles mill, 'Holmes Mill', now home of the award-winning Bowland Brewery, before returning to the hotel in time for our evening meal.

DAY 3

Today, we visit the fascinating Hoghton Tower where we enjoy a guided tour through the thousand-year history of the Grade I Listed manor house, walking the footsteps of kings, and admiring the natural beauty of three tranquil gardens. We continue our day of exploration by spending the afternoon at Samlesbury Hall, an ancient preserved stately home built in 1325, with a haunting past! There are no roped-off areas, and we can enjoy a tour of the house and gardens without undue restrictions following a delicious cream tea in the Heritage Café.

DAY 4

This morning, we travel by rail to Lancaster where we enjoy free time in this historical city, maybe to get lunch, explore the castle and museums, enjoy a coffee, or stroll the streets for some leisurely shopping. Back at the hotel this evening, we enjoy a delightful gin tasting hosted by the award-wining Batch Distillery, Lancashire's first distillery.

DAY 5

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Blackburn and make our way to the station for our homeward journeys.

B=Breakfast, LR=Light Refreshments, D=Dinner