Downham, a village in Lancashire's Ribble Valley, is widely considered one of England's prettiest and unspoilt villages, making it an ideal destination for a winter stroll near Greater Manchester. The village, at the foot of Pendle Hill in the Forest of Bowland, has retained its historic character with no major road signs, satellite dishes, or overhead wires visible.
A Village Preserved by One Family
The Assheton family has owned the village since 1588, helping to preserve its timeless appearance. The village pub, the Assheton Arms, is named after them. Earlier this year, Downham was included in a guide showcasing the UK's most beautiful villages for a summer escape, but it is considered a top place to visit all year round.
Unlike many other places, Downham has kept much of its historic charm. While there is no corner shop or supermarket, visitors will find stone cottages, quiet lanes, and a quaint pub. Over the years, dozens of dramas have been filmed there, including scenes from the 1961 crime thriller Whistle Down the Wind starring Alan Bates and Hayley Mills, and the BBC drama Born and Bred.
The 5km Circular Walk
For those seeking a challenge, there is a 5km circular route that loops the village, passing open fields, woodland, and footbridges. The walk starts in the village car park, turning left on the main street before turning right after passing the Assheton Arms. At the end of this road, a footpath follows the old Roman Road.
Following the path eastwards leads to Hall Royds Woods, keeping it to the left. At a crossroad, walkers continue straight on, passing Hey House Farm to the left, and keep heading east until reaching the Springs stiles. From there, the route heads north-east towards Hell Hole Plantation, crossing the footbridge at Twiston Beck, then follows the footpath north with the brook to the left.
After crossing a second footbridge, walkers bear left following the path westwards, parallel beside Ings Beck, keeping Hey House Wood to the left. Crossing the beck, the path goes southwest straight ahead until reaching Twiston Lane, then turning right and following the road back into the village.
Refreshment at the Assheton Arms
After the stroll, the Assheton Arms offers a traditional pub with flagstone floors, low beams, and cosy fireplaces. The dog-friendly venue provides accommodation across 12 rooms with views of the Lancashire countryside. The pub's restaurant, set across two levels with two private dining spaces, serves meals from breakfast through to dinner, including pub classics like fish and chips, beef burgers, steaks, pies, and lamb shank, alongside light bites and bar nibbles.
Behind the bar, visitors will find a handpicked selection of wines and award-winning ales from Bowland Brewery, completing the winter visit.
