Catering and a Castle in Clitheroe

In Brief.

Clitheroe is a town of around 15,000 people in the Ribble Valley, though the river bypasses the town. The town itself seems to be centred on the small but ancient castle that occupies a limestone outcrop, with the town centre on one side and a park on the other. The castle can be visited in minutes, but is accompanied by a museum on the history of the area that can extend a visit. However, I partly (perhaps largely) came for the Bowland Beer Hall, which, along with the adjacent food hall, can certainly contribute to a visit.
The Holmes Mill area

What's Here?

Arriving just before lunch, I headed for the Holmes Mill area, which includes a hotel, a formidable beer hall, a bustling food hall and a compact cinema. The Beer Hall lived up to expectations, with the rustic interior housing a daunting selection of draught beers, including a range from the local Bowland Brewery. Come by train or bring your own teetotal driver!  I sampled some of the local beer and a tasty halloumi burger; with friendly service, this was a good lunch option. However, the food hall next door looked every bit as tempting, with tables scattered through the space, surrounded by stalls selling local and international produce. I look forward to trying the Lancashire Cheese Bomb that I took home from the wide selection on offer.

The castle from the park

The castle keep itself, unashamed of its status as one of the smallest in England, provides good views over the town and surrounding countryside.  Dating from the 12th century, the castle had a minor role in assorted historical events, including the Civil War, but there isn't especially much to the building. If it is information you are after, the adjacent Castle Museum provides a wide range of exhibits with a connection to the town, from the geology of the region (interesting) to the study of a collector (not so much). The castle can also be viewed from the adjacent well maintained park, which also includes a substantial if conventional play area.

If you are up for an all-day trip, Clitheroe is close to the Pendle Sculpture Trail.

Practicalities.

Distance from Manchester Town Hall: 34 miles

Drive Time: 60 minutes.

Price: The park and castle are free. The beer is not. Castle Museum: $

Parking: There is paid parking in various places in the town. I used the Castle Long Stay Carpark, 4 Mitchell St, Clitheroe BB7 1DF, a short walk from the castle and town.  

Food and Drink: There are plenty coffee shops and other eateries in the Town Centre, and pubs galore. Also see above for a description of the "Catering" from the title of the post.

Retail therapy: The town centre has a variety of mostly independent shops. There is a small child-focused shop at the museum. 

Child Friendly: There is a play park in the grounds of the castle.  The museum includes some child-focused activities.

Toilets: Yes - in the park and the Castle Museum.

Do it justice in: 3 hours.

Inside-Outside: 60:40


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