Still wondering what to do in Clitheroe? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Clitheroe and book your hotel today!
Nestled in the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe is a Lancashire market town known for its impressive Norman castle, which commands views across the surrounding countryside. The town centre, a hub of independent shops and eateries, retains a character shaped by centuries of trade and community life. It serves as a natural gateway to the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its compact size makes it easily explorable on foot.
Beyond the castle grounds, visitors often frequent the town's specialist food shops, particularly those offering local produce. The Clitheroe Market operates several days a week, providing a traditional retail experience. For those interested in local heritage, the parish church of St Mary Magdalene stands as a prominent historical landmark, contributing to the town's enduring appeal.
For most visitors, the most convenient area to book accommodation in Clitheroe is around the town centre. This central location offers easy access to many local amenities and attractions on foot, making it a popular choice for those wanting to explore the town without needing a car constantly.
The town centre itself provides a good selection of hotel and guest house options, from smaller independent establishments to more established inns. Here, you'll find yourself close to Clitheroe Castle, which offers a great perspective on the Ribble Valley. The area is also home to many independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, including local favourites like Breda Murphy or The White Swan. The Grand, a popular venue for live music and performances, is also centrally located, offering cultural entertainment within easy reach of most hotels.
Moving slightly outwards, the areas surrounding the immediate town centre, particularly to the north towards Waddington Road or south towards Whalley Road, offer further choices. These parts often feature larger guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, sometimes with a more residential feel. While still very accessible, they provide a quieter atmosphere than the main high street. You might find yourself a short walk from the market or close to the local cinema here.
When considering your hotel choice, transport connections are worth noting. Clitheroe train station, located centrally, provides regular services, making arrival by rail straightforward. For those flying in, Manchester Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport are the closest major international hubs. While neither is directly connected by train to Clitheroe without changes, booking a hotel in the town centre allows for easy access to the station for onward journeys or simplifies arrangements for airport transfers.
To secure better rates for accommodation in Clitheroe, consider booking outside the busiest periods. Prices tend to rise during the summer months, particularly in July and August, when the Ribble Valley is popular for walking and outdoor activities. The Clitheroe Food Festival in July also draws a significant crowd, pushing hotel occupancy and costs up.
For more economical stays, aim for the quieter months, such as January and February, when visitor numbers typically dip. Weekday bookings are generally less expensive than weekends, especially for properties close to the town centre. If your travel dates are flexible, comparing prices across a few weeks can often reveal notable differences.