Explore Clitheroe’s charming shops, stunning views, and scenic walks this winter
Clitheroe: The town center has many shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants. There’s a lively market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The Grand is the main venue for music and theater. You can also find open mic nights and live bands at local pubs. Don’t miss the annual food festival!
The town features a historic castle on a hill, offering great views. You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink. There are also beautiful walks, from easy riverside strolls to challenging hikes up hills.
To start your walk, leave the car park and head towards the town center. Pass Sainsbury’s, cross the road to the Brown Cow Inn, and go through the metal gate into the castle grounds. Follow the path up the steps to the castle.
Once at the castle, enjoy the stunning views. The castle dates back to after the Norman Conquest, with the keep built in the 12th century. Some damage was done to the castle after the English Civil War to prevent it from being used as a garrison.
There’s a legend about a hole in the wall made by the devil. He supposedly threw stones from Apronful Hill into Clitheroe. The name comes from the stones that fell from his apron. You can even see his footprint at Deerstones nearby.
After exploring the keep, head back down the steps. Follow the gravel track downhill, ignoring the steps on either side. Stay on the tarmac track as it bends right, passing the bandstand and playground.
Continue to Edisford Bridge, where you’ll find the river Ribble. Walk along the riverbank, enjoying the scenery. The path will lead you to Henthorn Road, where you’ll turn right and follow the road to Fishes and Peggy Farm.
Keep going straight, ignoring any left turns, until you reach Shuttleworth Farm. Enter the farmyard and follow the path through the fields, crossing stiles and gates along the way.
At the cross, turn left and follow the path through a small wood. You’ll reach Standen Hey Community Woodland. Cross the railway line and keep following the path with the hedgerow on your right.
Continue on the path until you reach Higher Standen Farm. Keep right and pass through a wooden gate. You’ll be on a Roman Road that once connected Ribchester to Chatburn.
Follow the path across fields and stiles, eventually reaching a tarmac lane. Turn left at the junction and follow the path along the gardens of Standen Hall, a historic mansion.
As you walk, enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The path will lead you back to Littlemoor Road. Turn right, then take the second left onto Turner Street, leading you back to the car park.
For more ideas on things to do, check out the latest edition of Lancashire Life!
Start and finish your walk at Whalley Road long stay car park, Clitheroe, BB7 1AR. The distance is 6.5 miles, taking about three hours. Be sure to wear boots, as some paths can be muddy.
Public toilets are available near the car park, in the park behind Clitheroe Castle, and at Edisford Bridge picnic area.
