Top Things to Do around Farington Lodge
Within easy driving distance is the coast, some of the best shopping in the country, the stunning South Ribble Valley and the breath-taking Lake District National Park, with its wonderful views and miles of challenging walks. There is plenty for children to enjoy too with fun fairs and museums.
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
Situated on the site of the former Leyland Motors factory, it represents the heart of the British commercial vehicle industry, and has many exhibits of the vehicles, old and new, which continue to form the lifeline of British industrial success. The museum is only five minutes’ drive from the hotel, or twenty minutes on foot.
http://www.bcvmt.co.uk/
Ribble Steam Railway – Preston
Take a train ride in a locomotive (probably restored on site) along a three mile track, over the dock’s swing bridge which is part of the biggest inland dock in England, running alongside the diverted River Ribble. See the largest collection of industrial locomotives in the country and then visit our workshop for a look behind the scenes and see restoration work underway on both steam and diesel locomotives.
https://ribblesteam.org.uk/
Ribble Valley
Ribble Valley is one of those places you will fall in love with and want to return to again and again. Acknowledged as one of the most popular places in the country to both live and work, it is set within the Forest of Bowland, a recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, from breath taking vistas and valleys to star-studded skies, Ribble Valley offers a perfect environment for lovers of outdoor pursuits.
http://www.visitribblevalley.co.uk/
Forest of Bowland
Head to the geographic centre of England, the Forest of Bowland, via pretty English villages, traditional pubs and film and literature locations. It’s been designated an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, so expect to be impressed. The exact geographic centre couldn’t be quainter – the tiny village of Dunsop Bridge – with its teashop, riverside ducks and stunning fell views.
Head to Hurst Green and enjoy a traditional pint of ale at The Shireburn Arms, whose surrounding landscape was inspiration for Middle Earth in Tolkien’s Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was another author moved by the area, depicted in the Sherlock Holmes novel The Hound of the Baskervilles.
Visit the historic market town of Clitheroe and explore its independent shops, admire the picture perfect English village of Downham, regularly used as a film and TV location, and visit the Roman museum and baths at Ribchester.
https://forestofbowland.com/
Salmesbury Hall
Built in 1325 Samlesbury Hall is steeped in fascinating history, retaining its original typical black and white exterior, the Hall is almost equidistant between Blackburn and Preston, yet retaining a rural feel.
http://www.samlesburyhall.co.uk/
The Lake District
England’s largest National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the country and a haven for walking, hiking and climbing, as well as many other activities. Lake Windermere is approximately one hour away by car from Farington Lodge.
http://www.lake-district.gov.uk/
Blackpool Tower and Winter Gardens
Situated in what has been the North-West’s entertainment capital for over a century. Half-an-hour’s drive from the hotel.
http://www.visitblackpool.com/