Where to stay

Assheton Arms In the bijou village of Downham, where every house looks perfect, the pub seems perfectly in place. Book one of the rooms in the adjoining cottage for peace and tranquility. Its young, helpful staff are never phased and add to the sense of relaxation. Doubles from £110, including breakfast. Downham, Clitheroe, BB7 4BJ, 01200 441 227, seafoodpubcompany.com

The Inn At Whitewell If you want to stay in one place that encapsulates the best of the Ribble Valley, this is it. Located in the Forest of Bowland and backing on to the River Hodder, it’s a manor house with history. Although the bedrooms are luxurious, the public spaces have that comfortable air that comes with a good local. Doubles from £132, including breakfast. Near Clitheroe, BB7 3AT,

01200 448 222, innatwhitewell.com

Mitton Hall The 16th-century panelled hall is baronial to say the least, especially when there’s a wood fire burning. In contrast, rooms have a quirky under-designed feel about them, some romantic, others garnished with flock wallpaper belonging to another era. Doubles from £80, excluding breakfast. Mitton Road, Mitton, Whalley, BB7 9PQ, 01254 826 544, mittonhallhotel.co.uk

Northcote Sleep here and there’s a high chance you’ll want to dine here. Lisa Allen’s Michelin-starred cooking grows more refined by the day. A permaculture-inspired garden is expanding so that the hotel can produce more of its own fruit and vegetables. Rooms and suites have a Victoria Beckham-esque vibe with ultra-modern bathrooms. Doubles from £295, including breakfast. Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8BE, 01254 240 555, northcote.com

The Spread Eagle Inn Opposite the ruins of Sawley Abbey, it’s a classic hikers’ inn. The bedrooms are decorated with charm and taste. It’s comfortable, friendly and welcoming. Doubles from £87, excluding breakfast. Sawley, Clitheroe, BB7 4NH, 01200 441 202, spreadeaglesawley.co.uk