Lancashire, Luxury Lancashire Hotels in Riddle Valley, Clitheroe - Richardson Hotels

Lancashire, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution that transformed life in the UK and the rest of the world over in the space of a mere 100 years. This was the land of the cotton kings, spinners, weavers and miners, as coal was also a big part of industry here. There is a rich fabric of history here.

Historically, the county of Lancashire (Duchy of Lancaster) was much bigger than it is today and apparently there are some who wish the ancient boundaries to be restored! It may be smaller nowadays but it is one of the most populous areas in the UK. The majority of people live around the motorway network, criss-crossing east to west and north to south, which makes Lancashire so accessible. We're delighted to say that the particular area we are focussed on is quite the opposite and it's a delight to find traffic jam free roads dipping in and out of beautiful little villages where one almost thinks time has stood still.

Lancashire's Ribble Valley, dominated by Longdale Fell and Pendle Hill, infamous since the days of its witch trials in the 16th century, is home to Eaves Hall Country Hotel. And what a magnificent part of the world it is. In fact it is almost slap bang in the centre of the UK and there is a marker by the village of Dunsop Bridge to prove it! It's hard to believe that Manchester, Preston and Blackburn are within easy driving distance as it is so peaceful, quiet and green in this part of the world.

Capital of the area is the city of Clitheroe with its ancient Norman Castle set in lovely gardens. Surprisingly, Clitheroe is known for its shopping! Not so much your usual mix of high street shops but for speciality shops. There's a wonderful selection of yummy shops to browse! The town has regular markets as do the surrounding villages.

However one doesn't come here just to shop - that's a bonus!! There is walking galore, whether drawn like a magnet to Pendle Hill with its magnificent views or preferring to meander along the river and through the valley.

If you are a history buff, then this is ideal territory. Between the Pendle Witches, Ribchester and its Roman camp, Stoneyhurst College and Sawley Abbey to name but a few, there is much knowledge to be absorbed.

If its nature that interests you then you need look no further than the Forest of Bowland. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has won a European reward for its Sustainable Tourism initiatives and development.

Of course, you may be in the country but the sea isn't very far away if the need for some sandy surroundings arises. Blackpool, Lytham St Annes and Morecambe are all within an hour's drive and the beauty of the Lake District is only a short drive beyond that.

But don't be tempted to make a beeline for it. There is a lot more to this area of Lancashire than first meets the eye and it is wonderful to discover a beautiful part of the UK that hasn't yet been invaded by the masses. It really offers a wonderful opportunity to get away from daily stresses and strains and to appreciate the beauty of the landscape that makes this country so special.

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