Looking for new ideas of where to spend a day or two? The Red Rose county of Lancashire is the perfect place to visit for a staycation or a day out with a special one.
Lancashire’s villages and towns offer a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, making them ideal for a staycation or day trip. From the historic charm of the market towns Lancaster, Clitheroe and Rawtenstall, to the stunning countryside of the Forest of Bowland and the Pennines where you’ll find the village of Whitworth and Kelbrook. These locations provide endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and exploring scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a mix of independent shops and of course traditional pubs serving local food and drink.

Rawtenstall
Sitting south of the Pennines, Rawtenstall is a market town in East Lancashire around 40 minutes from Manchester. Featuring a collection of independent retailers and a great artisan community, it’s a great town for browsing shops and windows. Alongside shops, the town’s Whitaker Museum and art gallery features local history exhibits, great for if you want to learn more about the area. Rawtenstall also sits on the East Lancashire Railway which runs through scenic countryside connecting the town with Bury and Ramsbottom, other great places to visit. If you’re interested in classic transport or steam trains, a visit to the station or ride on the train provides a highlight for your visit.
Drink and Dine at the Whitchaff Inn
Break up your day with lunch at the Whitchaff, where their gorgeous interiors provide a feeling of pub luxury whilst you indulge in a selection of great food and drink. If you time your visit with a warm and sunny day, the beer garden at the rear has great views over the hills too.
Whitworth
Also sitting in south of the Pennines, Whitworth is quite a hidden gem. The village is situated amongst rolling valleys and hills it’s a lovely setting for a day exploring the surroundings. The village sits along the River Spodden and has great walking routes along the riverbanks where you can spot a variety of birds. As well as the river, the Cown Reservoir also offers some great trails for walking or cycling and even a few places to go fishing. There is a large sense of community in this small town and if your visit is well-timed, you might experience one of the village’s events too – from farmers markets selling local produced to art festivals celebrating the area’s talent.
Drink and Dine at the Cock and Magpie
After stretching your legs and taking in the nature that Whitworth has to offer, stop by at the Cock and Magpie to take a pause. The pub is great for catering for everyone, if you’re looking for a bite to eat and a cosy warm setting, you’ll find it at the Cock and Magpie. If you wanted something a little more low-key, the bar area at the pub has a selection of entertainment like pool and darts to keep you busy and encourage your competitive nature.
Clitheroe

Enjoy both the countryside and Clitheroe centre by stopping the night. Located just down the road from Clitheroe is the Spread Eagle, offering great pub food and a great night’s sleep in the newly refurbished great rooms. Or explore another new place, with a short drive you can be at the Craven Heifer for a comfortable night’s stay too.
Clitheroe is a charming destination offering great views of the town and beyond from its historic castle. The market town is perfect for shopping, with independent boutiques, antique stores, and local food retailers. Surrounded by the Ribble Valley and close to Forest of Bowland’s Area of Natural Beauty, it also provides excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying scenic outdoor adventures.
Ribchester Arms
Ribchester is a charming village steeped in Roman history, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. The village is home to the Ribchester Roman Museum, which showcases artefacts from its Roman fort, Bremetennacum, and provides insight into life during Roman Britain. Visitors can also explore the remains of the Roman baths and admire the picturesque setting along the River Ribble. Ribchester offers scenic walks, quaint streets, and cosy pubs, making it a peaceful and enriching spot for a day out or a short stay.
Stay and Dine at the Ribchester Arms, Ribchester
The impressive looking pub is situated just on the edge of the village and offers both a great meal and a relaxing evening away. The guest rooms have been designed with luxury in mind featuring four poster beds and beautiful design schemes
Garstang
Garstang, the world’s first Fairtrade town, offers a traditional market, independent shops, and scenic walks along the Lancaster Canal. The town has a great community spirit, and you’ll often find a different fete or celebration going on in the town. Surrounded by the Forest of Bowland, it’s ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. With historic sites like Greenhalgh Castle and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a day out or a short stay.
Stay and Dine at the Royal Oak, Garstang
If you’re visiting for a night or even passing through, the Royal Oak is worth a visit. From a delicious menu filled with pub classics and great portions to a comfortable overnight stay with a full English breakfast to fuel you for your day ahead.
Lancaster

Lancaster is a town stepped in history and tales to tell, and you’ll never be far from a landmark with ancient significance. From evidence of the Roman period and its medieval castle to its tales of witch trials, there is a tale or two to learn for everyone. Visit Lancaster Castle, learn more about the history at the Judges Lodgings museum or discover new butterfly species at the Butterfly House. If you’d like to take a slower pace, why not stroll Williamson’s Park, and then head to the Quayside and enjoy some of our great beers.
Dine and Dine at The Three Mariners, Lancaster
Lancaster is a ‘pub scene’ place, but there is nowhere better to start (and stay) than The Three Mariners. With a wide selected of cask conditioned ales, hand-pulled ciders, and a roaring log burner, you’ll be ready to stay for the day. Alongside an excellent selection of drinks and good pub food – The Three Mariners is also known for its spooky past, which you can read more about here. If none of this is enough, Dan, the operator of The Three Mariners also has the Black Horse in Preston, which is no stranger to bagging awards for his beer excellence and range.
Dine and Stay at the Wagon and Horses, Lancaster
With so much to see and do in Lancaster a day might not be enough. Why not stay the night at the Wagon and Horses on the Quayside? As well as a restful night they also have a great menu with a great mix of British and Italian dishes, with plenty of offers throughout the week too. If you’re heading there midweek – don’t miss out on their happy hour which takes place Monday – Thursday between 8pm & 10pm, perfect for your night cap.