Welcome to the Ribble Valley... |
 ...a rural haven of beautiful moor land, contented sheep and spectacular scenery.
It is this landscape that provided inspiration
for J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘Lord of the
Rings.’ A 5.5 mile route around the village
of Hurst Green traces his footsteps in what is
a blueprint for his ‘Middle Earth’
map.
Despite Tolkien's homage, the Ribble Valley's
timeless rural beauty remains one of England's
best-kept secrets.
Picture postcard villages like Downham are often
used as a backdrop for movies and television dramas.
While the Forest of Bowland, which forms a large
part of the Ribble Valley, is one of the largest
Areas of Outstanding National Beauty in the country.
Pendle Hill, one of the areas unmistakable landmarks,
looks down upon Ribblesdale Park. It was here
in 1652 that George Fox had his vision that led
to the foundation of the Quaker religion. However,
the hill is probably better known for its connection
to the legend of the Lancashire Witches (some
of whom are buried at Gisburn Church).
Further afield are the breathtaking Yorkshire
Dales, the Lancashire coast and the numerous walks
through the Pennines. The northwest is a region
of great icons from the stunning 21st Century
Imperial War Museum North (designed buy the same
architect who is rebuilding the World Trade Centre
in New York City) to the 2000 year old Hadrian’s
Wall Heritage Site; from the unparalleled beauty
of The Lake District National Park, to the brilliant
Blackpool; from the Tate Liverpool to John Ruskin’s
admired Lune Valley; from the scenic Settle –
Carlisle Railway to Andy Goldsworthy’s outdoor
sculptures at Grizedale Forest Park.
Sixteen great lakes, England’s five highest
mountains, the homes of William Wordsworth and
Beatrix Potter, hundreds of miles of unspoilt
countryside, haunted historic buildings, hidden
valleys and tiny hamlets are what sit on your
doorstep at Ribblesdale Park.
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