Day 1: We arrive at our beautiful hotel, set in 17 acres of parkland, in time for dinner.
Day 2: This morning, we step back in time for a nostalgic trip on an historic steam train along the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway. It’s time to sit back and relax as our return journey takes us through beautiful Yorkshire countryside with stunning rural panoramas. On our return we will enjoy free time to wander through the grounds of Bolton Abbey. At the heart of the Estate lies the Priory Church and ruins of an Augustinian Priory, in a picture perfect riverside setting. There will be time to get some lunch and, with seating both in around the Priory Church, it’s the perfect location to switch off from it all and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this wonderful setting. This afternoon we travel to Gawthorpe Hall. This Elizabethan gem affectionately known as the “Downton of the North” has strong associations with the writings of Charlotte Bronte and is home to The North West’s largest collection of portraits on loan from the National Portrait gallery.
Day 3: We begin our day with a guided tour of Samlesbury Hall. This fabulous half-timbered black and white medieval house, built in 1325 as a family home, is brought to life with captivating stories from our knowledgeable guide. Enjoy intrigue and sorcery with turbulent tales of its Catholic families, ghosts, hauntings and witchcraft from the early 14th through to the 21st century. After our visit we make our way to Riley Green Marina to embark upon our unique narrow boat cruise along the Leeds Liverpool Canal. Our 3-hour round trip passes through delightful countryside including Withnell Fold Nature Reserve, past the old Paper Mill and on to the lovely hamlet of Wheelton and Johnsons Hillock Locks before descending and ascending two locks and returning to Riley Green. During our cruise, we enjoy a two-course lunch on our spacious boat, with each table offering panoramic views of the canal.
Day 4: After breakfast this morning we make the short journey to Clitheroe, the Ribble Valley’s bustling market town. The most recognisable landmark is its Norman Castle surrounded by fabulous park. Sitting proudly on top of its limestone outcrop the Castle has dominated the towns skyline for over 800 years and the grounds are free to explore. A visit to the town’s market with its fresh, locally sourced produce, is a must. The town also offers a wonderful mix of traditional independent retailers and high street names. After time at leisure visiting the town, we head to Oswaldtwistle Mills Shopping Village and Garden Centre. On arrival we take the weight off our feet and sit down for a traditional Lancashire lunch of Pie and Peas followed by a jam scone and a cup of tea. After lunch we enjoy a scenic guided tour of the picturesque Ribble Valley. Travelling through this unspoiled corner of England with its gentle rolling countryside and wooded river valleys, we’ll pass through some well-known places such as Ribchester, built on the site of a Roman fort, and Longridge whose town centre is mostly built from the locally quarried sandstone. Returning to this award winning former weaving mill, after the tour, there will be time to browse some of the shops. With over 100 retailers under one roof, a garden centre, mill grounds, craft and sewing centre, Textile and Heritage Museum and even its own wildfowl reserve you will be spoilt for choice.
Day 5: After a delicious Lancashire breakfast, we make our way home.