The 5 Best Beer Gardens, Rooftop Bars & Wine Bars Near Clitheroe | Bowland Retreat Lodges
- Bowland Retreat
- Jul 7
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
There's something magical about a summer evening in the Ribble Valley. After a day exploring picturesque villages, walking through beautiful countryside or simply relaxing in your private hot tub, or soaking up the sun on your private decked balcony, why not head out for a refreshing drink in one of the area's best outdoor venues?
Whether you're looking for rooftop cocktails with stunning views, a lively beer garden or a relaxed pint in the sunshine, these local favourites are all within easy reach of Bowland Retreat Lodges.
All just a 10 minute taxi away - here's our top 5 outdoor drinking spots for your Summer stay:
1. Whalley Wine Bar – Sophisticated Summer Spot
A firm favourite with many guests staying at Bowland Retreat Lodges, Whalley Wine Bar is well worth booking in advance – especially during the summer months, when it's one of the Ribble Valley's most sought-after spots.
Situated on the charming High Street in Whalley, this stylish wine bar combines relaxed sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a crisp rosé on the terrace, sampling a carefully selected wine flight or sharing a cheeseboard with friends, it's the perfect place to spend a leisurely summer afternoon or evening.
With Whalley Wine Shop just next door, before heading back to your lodge, browse the shelves and pick up a bottle of your favourite wine to enjoy later in your private hot tub or to take home as a delicious reminder of your Ribble Valley escape.
Why you'll love it:
A favourite with Bowland Retreat Lodges guests
Outdoor seating in the heart of Whalley
Excellent wines, knowledgable service, and sharing boards
Whalley Wine Shop next door for the perfect holiday souvenir
Escape Coffee & Cocktails – Rooftop drinks you won't forget
If you're looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy summer spot, Escape Coffee & Cocktails should be at the top of your list.
Located in the heart of Clitheroe, this stylish cocktail bar boasts a cute rooftop terrace with a view of Pendle Hill. During the day it's a popular coffee stop, while in the evenings it transforms into one of the Ribble Valley's best places to enjoy handcrafted cocktails. The rooftop terrace just adds an extra layer to this already unique bar, making it an ideal place for many occasions.
Perfect for:
Cocktails with friends
Date nights
Great vibes in central Clitheroe location
3. Holmes Mill – A Beer Lover's Paradise
No visit to Clitheroe is complete without experiencing Holmes Mill.
Home to the famous Bowland Beer Hall, it features one of Britain's longest bars with an incredible selection of cask ales, craft beers and ciders. The outdoor seating creates a lively atmosphere during the summer months, making it a brilliant place to meet friends and sample some of Lancashire's finest brews. Often live music and events, so well worth checking out their social calendar.
Why visit?
Huge selection of beers
Bowland Brewery ales
Lively atmosphere
Great food options
4. Maxwells Café & Wine Bar – Relaxed Rooftop Vibes
Opposite the train station in Clitheroe, sits Maxwells Café & Wine Bar, another fantastic choice for alfresco drinks. It has ground floor heated outdoor seating as well as open-air roof terrace, making it one of Clitheroe's most popular places to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail or a refreshing gin and tonic. Whether you're popping in for brunch, lunch or evening drinks, Maxwells offers a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect after a day exploring the Ribble Valley.
Don't miss:
Cocktail pitchers
Super selection on the menu
Rooftop terrace, well placed
Relaxed summer atmosphere
5. The Eagle at Barrow – Drinks with Countryside Views
For a more traditional country pub experience, The Eagle at Barrow offers one of the area's most attractive beer gardens.
Its spacious terraces are a popular spot for soaking up the sunshine, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cold pint or a crisp glass of wine. Pair your drinks with one of their locally sourced dishes for a memorable summer evening. The Eagle at Barrow is situated in between Whalley and Clitheroe, just a short drive away from your luxury lodge.
Perfect for:
Sunny afternoons
Outdoor dining
Family gatherings
Scenic countryside views
You are really spoilt for choice in this wonderful Lancashire location, its difficult to select just 5. So if its more traditional pub or gastro pub vibes you are after, with great food here's a few more with great beer gardens, again all within 20 min drive or less:
The Aspinall Arms Mitton - large beer garden terrace by the river (5 min drive)
The Shireburn Arms Hurstgreen (5 min drive) wonderful views at the back The Black Bull at Old Langho - historic charm & large outdoor dining & beer garden The Swan and Royal Clitheroe - classic gastro pub with outdoor seating in Swan Courtyard The Calfs Head at Worston - traditional pub menu (large portions!) beautiful beer garden with stream
More fine dining? The Three Fishes at Mitton - farm to fork restaurant is superb, minutes from your lodge, with plenty of outdoor tables on their terrace set in a peaceful setting!
Also for other seasons, especially 'pint by the fire' season check out our other blog for the best local Country pubs for your stay
Finish the Day with a Hot Tub Under the Stars
The best part? After enjoying the Ribble Valley's fantastic outdoor bars and beer gardens, you're only a short drive from Bowland Retreat Lodges.
Return to your luxury lodge, pour your favourite drink and sink into your private hot tub as the sun goes down. It's the perfect way to end a summer's day in the Lancashire countryside.
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a getaway with friends or a relaxing family staycation, Bowland Retreat Lodges provide the ideal base for discovering the very best of Clitheroe and the Ribble Valley.
What about breakfast?
Looking for where's best to go for brunch in the area - Clitheroe/ Whalley check out our other blog
Is there much entertainment or activities close by?
Wondering where to head for a stroll or a cycle during your lodge break, check out our top 5 walking routes and best cycle routes to explore the Forest of Bowland and the Ribble Valley countryside.
For a whole array of ideas and local recommendations for your lodge break at Bowland Retreat - browse our NEARBY page on the website for activities and inspiration!
Finally, if you have any questions about staying at Bowland Retreat Lodges, please get in touch we would love to hear from you! Otherwise - head to our availability page and secure your relaxing hot tub break now!
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