Lancashire

Birthplace of the industrial revolution, Lancashire retains something of a no-nonsense and stoical atmosphere. Its towns and cities, Lancaster, Morecambe, Clitheroe, have a charming, off-the-beaten-track feel, circled by lush, rippling countryside, a few solid and sober castles, and a clutch of gastropubs offering a genuinely warm welcome. Pull on sturdy boots for blustery walks in the Ribble Valley AONB, a hidden gem criss-crossed with footpaths and bridleways, circular ambles and riverside rambles. Finish up at an enticing pub tucking into hearty local fare, and, if they’re in our hand-picked collection of special places to stay, slip upstairs to peaceful bedrooms.

The Cartford Inn
Preston, Lancashire
From £170 p/n

Inn

15 rooms for 2 - 3
A great little inn, hugely popular, with chic rooms, lovely food, happy staff and a winning position on the river Wyre

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Coach & Horses
Bolton by Bowland, Lancashire
From £95 p/n

Inn

7 rooms for 2 - 4
A smartly refurbished village pub with its own micro-brewery and a huge emphasis on cooking great food from a network of local suppliers

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The Fleece Inn
Lancaster, Lancashire
From £100 p/n

Inn

9 rooms for 2 - 4
Good old-fashioned service, fresh and gleaming surroundings, great food and very comfortable rooms at this rejuvenated roadside inn

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The Inn at Whitewell
Clitheroe, Lancashire
From £145 p/n

Inn

31 rooms for 2
Imperious old coaching inn lost in deep country with a river to fish, five-mile views, delicious rooms and some very tasty food

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