Ribchester 1.4 miles. Stoney Cross Cottage is a beautifully restored rural retreat nestled on the edge of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, just a short distance from the historic village of Ribchester in Lancashire. Offering a characterful blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, this spacious getaway is perfect for families or groups of up to eight guests, and welcomes a small well behaved dog (downstairs only) for a truly inclusive countryside escape.

With off-road parking for one vehicle and roadside parking for three more, you'll have everything you need for a relaxed arrival. Step inside to find a well-equipped kitchen/diner featuring a range cooker and farmhouse table, ideal for sharing homecooked meals after a day of adventure. The cosy sitting room invites you to relax by the fireplace with a Smart TV for evening entertainment, while the snug provides a peaceful corner with an electric fire - just the spot for reading or enjoying a quiet drink. Exposed stone walls throughout the cottage lend a warm and welcoming rustic atmosphere, whilst the utility room in the annex, equipped with a washing machine and tumble dryer, also has a shower room, ensures all the practicalities are covered. A real highlight of the property is the expansive two-floor games room, complete with a Smart TV, football table, electric fire, pool table, basketball hoop, and comfy sofa - perfect for family fun, rain or shine.

At bedtime, choose from four thoughtfully decorated bedrooms: a king-size with beautiful open field views, two inviting doubles with cosy armchairs and storage and a twin room ideal for children or friends sharing. The main family bathroom features a walk-in shower, plush bath, and soothing views — the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Outside, you'll find an enclosed rear patio offering uninterrupted views across the stunning countryside with furniture for alfresco dining, and a non-enclosed side garden. From your base at Stoney Cross Cottage, you're perfectly placed to explore the very best the Ribble Valley and surrounding area has to offer. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the Forest of Bowland AONB where you can enjoy miles of walking trails, wildlife spotting and

scenic picnics in one of England’s most tranquil landscapes. In addition, seek out Brockholes Nature Reserve - a floating village and wetlands centre, ideal for family days out and spotting rare birds. Finally, Beacon Fell Country Park allows you to climb to the summit for panoramic views or stroll through its beautiful woodland trails. The historians in the group will meanwhile revel in the Ribchester Roman Museum where you can discover ancient artefacts and the fascinating Roman history of Ribchester and remains of a Roman Bathhouse. Alternatively there's Samlesbury Hall where you can step back into a storybook Tudor manor with tours, gardens, animals, and artisan treats. Or why not visit Hoghton Tower – a dramatic hilltop manor hosting events, guided tours, and local markets in a historic setting (also Ghost Tours for those inclined!). Make sure you also take in Clitheroe Castle – a hilltop museum and park with panoramic views and charming shops nearby. Finally, Whalley Abbey is worth a visit for those seeking a reflective stroll through its peaceful ruins and gardens which offer centuries of monastic history. The children will be entertained with a visit to Mrs Dowsons Farm Park where they can meet the animals, hop on a tractor ride, and indulge in award-winning farm-made ice cream. Likewise, the young and young-at-heart will enjoy Bowland Wild Boar Park with their hand-feed deer and llamas and where you can enjoy woodland walks,

tractor rides and meet the park’s famous wild boars. Immerse yourself in the rich local produce and artisanal flavours of the Ribble Valley. From organic vegetables to home-made cheeses and fresh-baked goods, the area is full of hidden foodie gems. Clitheroe Market (Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays) is a bustling hub for local meats, cheeses, preserves, baked goods, and crafts. The Ribble Valley Food Heaven Market (monthly, Clitheroe) meanwhile celebrates the finest local produce with pop-up stalls and tastings from small-batch makers. Or why not take in Whalley Artisan Market (monthly - held on the first Sunday of each month), a curated event that features gourmet street food, local beers, and handmade crafts. The Bowland Food Hall (at Holmes Mill, Clitheroe) is a must-visit indoor market and deli showcasing the best of Lancashire produce under one roof. Or why not go back to basics with a visit to Gazegill Organic Farm Shop (Rimington) offers organic meats, raw dairy, and fresh produce direct from the farm. Booths Supermarket in Clitheroe is a local favourite that champions Lancashire suppliers and stocks a fantastic range of regional delicacies whilst Huntleys Country Stores in Samlesbury offers a farm shop, butcher, deli and even a gift barn and tearoom. Whether you're exploring nature, discovering history, or sampling the region’s award winning food and drink, Stoneycross Cottage offers a peaceful and well-placed base for a truly memorable Lancashire holiday.

The village of Ribchester is encircled by green hills and lies in a curve of the River Ribble mid way between Preston and Clitheroe. It is a pleasant jumble of multi-coloured stone cottages in long twisting terraces. It has three pubs, the White Bull, dated 1707, the Black Bull and the Ribchester Arms and the award-winning Chinese restaurant Yu and You Restaurant and Bar. The White Bull has a porch canopy supported by four columns said to be from Roman ruins. The village takes its name from the River Ribble and the fort of Bremetennacum (the walled town by the Ribble). For this reason, Ribchester has been seen to have a purely Roman foundation, but excavations in 1977 showed that settlements going back to the middle Bronze Age existed in the area. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Ribble Valley is a rural haven of spectacular scenery, diverse natural habitats and historical legend, a place of almost incomparable peace, where adults and children alike can enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors without the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Longridge is easily reached, a unique town with plenty of interesting shops and tempting eateries, described as 'big on character' by the Sunday Times and ranked in their '101 Best Places To Live In Britain'. Nearby Clitheroe is famed for its specialist shops of all types, including, amongst others, a sausage shop that sells over seventy-five different varieties! A gourmet's paradise, with award-winning restaurants and country hotels situated throughout the valley, and annual events including a number of agricultural shows and day festivals of all types, this fantastic location has plenty to offer at any time of year!

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