Being one of the most historically important counties in England due to its role in the Industrial Revolution, Lancashire combines this modernity with traditionalism and centuries of heritage. Situated in the north west of the country, the sprawling region manages to incorporate a lot within its limits, from the holiday town of Blackpool on the coast to glorious countryside in the Forest of Bowland which has been declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Read more
You, your family and your friends will love their stay in Oak Bank Farm. The spacious house features all of the extras you expect in a modern home yet has been built to a traditional style and using local materials so it looks as if it has stood in place for centuries. There is space for up to 14 people to sleep in six huge bedrooms, with a park, cafes, a village shop and three pubs only a 10-minute walk away in Ribchester. Beautiful walks to some of the Ribble Valley's most famous spots, including Beacon Fell and Longridge Fell are close, as is the Forest of Bowland. With Hidden Oaks spa on site, you'll never want to go home!
There's nowhere like the Ribble Valley with its fells and forests that are stunning in every season. Whitewell Cottage is near Ribchester, within a relaxed 10-15 minute stroll from a park, village shop, cafes and pubs, and close to fantastic walks leading to Longridge Fell and Bowland Fell. This eco-friendly accessible holiday cottage sleeps up to four people in two gorgeous bedrooms, with a layout that suits couples, friends or families and luxurious touches like underfloor heating and an outdoor hot tub. It's a fantastic choice for a walking or cycling holiday, spa breaks and ideal for sightseeing in places such as Clitheroe and Whalley.
A charming eco-friendly cottage in the Ribble Valley built to a high specification with space for up to four people to sleep in two bedrooms. Ribchester is a 10-15 minute walk away, with cafes, pubs, a park and a village shop. There are beautiful walks in the vicinity, including routes to Longridge Fell and Beacon Fell, and the Forest of Bowland National Landscape is only a few miles from the door. Dinkley Cottage is ideal for couples, small families and friends.
An eco-friendly holiday cottage half a mile from Ribchester and within walking distance of a park, shops and pubs. There are four ensuite bedrooms to sleep up to eight guests, making this an ideal choice for families and friends who want to be able to explore the beautiful Ribble Valley with ease. Hidden Oaks spa and pool is onsite, offering treatments and exclusive hire options (booked separately.) Clitheroe and Whalley are both within a 20-minute drive from the cottage, with nearby attractions including Stonyfell College, Beacon Fell, the Brockholes Nature Reserve, and the Bowland Wild Boar Park.
Whether you're organising a get-together with far-flung friends or searching for the perfect place for a special family celebration, Duddle Cottage is perfect. This gorgeous stone holiday cottage is finished and furnished to a high standard and can accommodate up to ten guests in five ensuite bedrooms. It is in the beautiful Ribble Valley, half a mile from Ribchester and with easy access to wonderful footpaths and cycling routes leading to places like Beacon Fell, as well as through the nearby Forest of Bowland and beside the River Ribble. There's also a spa with pool on site so you'll never want to leave!
Sherburne Cottage is in the beautiful Ribble Valley, only half a mile from Ribchester Village with panoramic views over the countryside and luxurious spa and pool on site. There is space for up to four people to sleep in two ensuite bedrooms, make it perfect for couples and families who want a convenient, comfortable holiday cottage from which to explore. Fill your days with adventure and spend your evenings relaxing under the stars in your outdoor hot tub. There are excellent footpaths, cycling routes and bridleways, and local attractions that include Clitheroe Castle, Whalley abbey and the Ribchester Roman Museum.
This stylish cottage is on the outskirts of Ribchester in the Ribble Valley, only half a mile from the village shop, playground, cafes and pubs. The owners have used traditional materials with modern eco-friendly touches to ensure that guests are warm and comfortable all year round, staying somewhere that helps to protect this beautiful environment for future generations. There is space for up to seven people to sleep in four ensuite bedrooms, with lots of space to relax indoors and outside. Bailey Cottage is perfect for families and friends who want a home-away-from-home from which they can enjoy what is arguably one of the most picturesque parts of England.
Couples and families love charming Crumbleholme Cottage. The two-bedroom eco-friendly cottage offers a high standard of accommodation for up to four people, in a location just half a mile from Ribchester and within walking distance of pubs, shops and a playground. It is so convenient for countryside walks and mountain bike rides, with the opportunity to play golf, horse ride and fish in the River Ribble. Clitheroe, Longridge and Whalley are all nearby, making this a fantastic place to come and relax at any time of the year.
Relax in luxury in this modern country house which can sleep up to 16 people in eight beautiful ensuite bedrooms, with features including a cinema room, games room, outdoor hot tub and sauna. The cottage has a timeless appeal with high-quality furnishings and special touches like thick bathrobes and a choice of family-friendly games as well as luxurious spa and pool onsite. Somerwood is only half a mile from the Ribble Valley village of Ribchester, within a 10-15 minute stroll from shops, a playground and friendly pubs. It's ideal for extended families and groups of friends.
Woodfield Farm is a luxurious, seven-bedroom holiday house with space for large groups of up to 16 people to stay and play right in the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley. The three-storey property is packed with fantastic features, including a cinema room, pool table and table tennis, while outside is a hot tub and a tennis court. It is close to Ribchester village with shops, cafes and the friendly Black Bull pub. Walking, cycling and sightseeing at places like the Ribblehead Viaduct and nearby Clitheroe are all favourite pastimes, adding to the appeal this house has for extended families and friends gathering to catch up, holiday together or celebrate a special occasion.
Turner House occupies a stunning island location edge on the exclusive Hermitage Estate in Halton, Lancashire. It's a spacious self-catering retreat with unbeatable views of the River Lune, beds for up to 10 people, and a layout ideal for family gatherings or a celebration with friends. This holiday cottage combines luxury with comfort, featuring a hot tub, sauna, and games room for added relaxation and fun. With ample private parking and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors, Turner House is a fantastic group accommodation, where you and your favourite family and friends can relax in a peaceful riverside setting.
The Natterjack Manor House brings sophisticated beachside luxury to Morecambe's coastline, comfortably housing 14 guests across five distinctively styled bedrooms. This premium self-catering holiday cottage features remarkable amenities including heated indoor pool, spa suite, and remarkable four-poster master suite at ground level. The upstairs lounge showcases a stunning frameless glass fireplace with panoramic bay vistas, while outdoor spaces include hot tub and professional-grade cooking facilities. Ideal group accommodation for milestone celebrations, hen weekends, retreats full of fun and relaxation, and family gatherings, this distinguished holiday rental provides direct beach access near the Lake District.
The Middleton Towers brings something completely different to Morecambe's holiday cottage scene—a beachfront self-catering property sleeping 16 guests in 5 gorgeous bedrooms and a unique attraction that is an actual tower rising from the garden. This unique holiday rental combines five themed bedrooms with luxury touches including private indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and spa facilities. The tower houses a shisha lounge and rooftop lookout delivering panoramic coastline views. Perfect group accommodation for celebrations and family gatherings, this distinctive holiday home sits directly on the beach with contemporary amenities throughout.
The Middleton Manor stands as one of Morecambe's most extraordinary holiday houses as a Grade 2 listed manor house transformed into luxury self-catering accommodation for up to 20 guests. This exceptional holiday rental combines heritage architecture with contemporary indulgence, featuring seven king-size bedrooms, a private indoor heated swimming pool, casino, nightclub, cinema room, and outdoor hot tub overlooking the Irish Sea. Perfect group accommodation for celebrations, family reunions, and special occasions, the manor sits directly on Morecambe Bay with stunning 360-degree views. Close to the Lake District yet offering beachfront luxury, this unique holiday home delivers an unforgettable experience for large groups seeking something truly special.
Hermitage Cottage is a luxury holiday cottage in Lancashire, tucked away on the exclusive Hermitage Estate in Halton. Sleeping four guests in two elegant bedrooms, this single-level self-catering holiday home offers peace, privacy, and a touch of indulgence. Highlights include a private lakeside hot tub, outdoor dining terrace, and a stylish open-plan living space complete with a piano for relaxed evenings in. Perfect for couples or small families, the property combines modern comfort with a unique riverside setting. Within easy reach of Lancaster, Morecambe Bay, and the Lake District, Hermitage Cottage is an exceptional base for exploring North West England.
Royal Garden Suite is a beautifully styled holiday cottage in Lancashire, set within the exclusive Hermitage Estate in Halton. Sleeping four guests in two comfortable en suite bedrooms, this self-catering holiday home offers single-level living and a private riverside garden. Features include an inviting hot tub, outdoor dining terrace, and a well-equipped kitchen for easy entertaining. The layout is great for couples or small families to enjoy a peaceful escape with access to scenic walks and extensive private grounds. Located just minutes from Lancaster and within easy reach of Morecambe Bay, Arnside & Silverdale AONB, and the Lake District, this is an exceptional home-away-from-home while you discover the plentiful delights of North West England.
Thomas Gray House is a six-star luxury holiday cottage in Lancashire, set on its own private island within the River Lune and close to the Lake District. This stylish self-catering holiday home sleeps up to six guests across three beautifully appointed bedrooms, with additional cots available. The property offers indulgent extras, including a private hot tub, games room with pool table and arcade games, and a fully equipped contemporary kitchen with high-end appliances. Located on the exclusive Hermitage Estate, it provides a serene base for exploring Lancaster, Morecambe Bay, and Arnside & Silverdale AONB. A perfect retreat for families or friends.
Hermitage House is a six-star luxury holiday manor on a private island in Lancashire’s River Lune, close to the Lake District. Sleeping up to 24 guests in nine opulent bedrooms, this self-catering property is perfect for celebrations and group getaways. Highlights include a heated swim spa, riverside hot tub, sauna, cinema room, casino, games area, and even a private salon. Not only does the house have gorgeous views of Otter Island and private fishing rights, but it also has easy access to Lancaster, the Yorkshire Dales, and Arnside & Silverdale AONB to make it an incredible retreat for families and friends seeking a unique holiday home.
Stylish bungalow located in Lytham Saint Annes just a few miles from Blackpool. Sleeping 6 people in 3 bedrooms, and with 2 well-behaved dogs welcome, this is the perfect retreat for friends and family to enjoy a holiday by the sea. Other activities include Blackpool Pleasure Beach, The Zoo and Sea Life Blackpool.
This fabulous house sleeping up to 24 people has magnificent views over Morecambe Bay. It's ideal for several families holidaying together or a large group of friends. The house is ideally placed in an area of outstanding natural beauty just on the edge of the lake district and only a short drive from the Yorkshire Dales. One of the best sunset views in the world is in winter over the bay when the tide has been out long enough for some of the sand to dry.
Popular towns in and around Lancashire:
ArnsideBlackpoolBoltonBolton-by-BowlandCarnforthChippingClitheroeForest of BowlandKirkby LonsdaleLancasterLytham St AnnesManchesterMorecambeMorecambe BayMossleyNewchurch-in-PendlePrestonRossendaleSilverdaleSkiptonSouthportStockportWhittingtonYorkshire Dales BordersSearch within North West England
Certainly one of the biggest draws to the county is the seaside resort of Blackpool with its tourist attractions that give the impression of an England, long since gone in many places. Donkey rides on the beach, the famous Blackpool tower, the promenade and the winter gardens are all attractions in keeping with the traditional nature of the town. The upgraded Pleasure Beach and lighting shows add an element of the 21st century to a holiday destination that has welcomed millions over the years.
The county is home to a variety of native foods and dishes and prides itself on its contribution to the culinary world. Visitors can sample authentic Lancashire cheese, hotpot, Rag pudding or the old-fashioned, but still popular, meal of fish and chips that started in the area. Literary enthusiasts can partake in the Tolkein Trail which starts from Stonyhurst College and is the site where J.R.R Tolkein penned his most celebrated work, The Lords of the Rings trilogy.
For fans of wildlife and natural beauty then the Forest of Bowland near Chipping is unmatched in the region. With 312 square miles in total and stretching into neighbouring Yorkshire in some parts, it is characterised by vast open spaces, heather swamped moorland and offers a great chance to explore nature with trails, walks, cycling, mountain biking and fishing. There are also relics to discover dating back to prehistoric times and for bird watchers, the magnificent Northern Harrier, a bird of prey found all over the northern hemisphere, can be seen in the forest.
Some of the humble villages in the Bowland area can trace their roots back thousands of years and Pendle Hill, a summit of nearly 600 meters, provides incredible views of the surrounding countryside if you make it to the top! Due to its importance in the development of England during the 19th century, much emphasis is placed on the industrial side of the county. The Museum of Lancashire provides relics and a narrative history from ancient times to the modern day, while Lancaster Castle is a great example of a medieval structure and has a rich history from the Normans to the present day, taking in the English Civil War and housing prisoners of war in the 20th century in the process.
Lancashire is a culinary, historical and natural hot spot in the north west of England with something for everyone within its borders. It provides outdoor activities within its picturesque landscapes, historical places of interests and lively seaside and tourist towns. Visitors to the county would be hard pressed to find another place quite like Lancashire in the rest of the north-west or, indeed, the country.
