Top 5 Country Pubs to Visit During Your Hot Tub Break at Bowland Retreat Lodges
- Bowland Retreat
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
One of the joys of a relaxing stay at Bowland Retreat Lodges near Clitheroe is discovering the wonderful country pubs scattered throughout the Ribble Valley. After a day exploring the countryside or soaking in your private hot tub, there’s nothing better than enjoying a hearty meal, a local ale and a warm Lancashire welcome.
The Ribble Valley is famous for its food scene, charming villages and traditional inns, making it the perfect destination for a hot tub getaway with great pub dining nearby. Here are five fantastic country pubs to add to your itinerary during your stay.
1. The Aspinall Arms, Mitton
A firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, the Aspinall Arms sits in a beautiful location close to the River Ribble. With views across open countryside and a cosy interior full of character, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring. Winter months you can cosy up in an armchair by the fire with a coffee or mulled wine! Spring/ Summer months you can sit out in the large picturesque gardens next to the river and soak in the scenery. Team it up with a popular walking route, to make your meal a well-deserved reward!
The menu combines traditional pub classics with seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. It’s particularly popular for relaxed lunches, Sunday roasts and evening meals.
Why visit during your stay:
Stunning riverside views
Excellent food and local ales
Only a 2 minute drive from Bowland Retreat Lodges
2. The Edisford Bridge Country Pub, Clitheroe
Located beside the River Ribble just outside Clitheroe, The Edisford Bridge is a relaxed and welcoming pub. It’s a wonderful spot for a drink after walking along the river or visiting nearby Clitheroe Castle. In warmer months, the beer garden is perfect for enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Why it’s worth a visit:
Well positioned, less than a 5 min drive from your lodge
Great stop after visit into Clitheroe
Friendly and relaxed atmosphere
3. The Lower Buck Inn, Waddington
The picturesque village of Waddington is home to one of the Ribble Valley’s most charming pubs — The Lower Buck Inn. The Lower Buck Inn is an independent family owned English country pub dating back to the 1700s, this historic inn is full of character with stone floors, wooden beams and roaring fires in the colder months.
The pub is well known for its quality food and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a lunch date or evening out. Just a 10 minute taxi back to your Bowland Retreat Hot tub Lodge!
Highlights include:
Traditional village pub charm
Excellent seasonal menus
Located in one of the Ribble Valley’s prettiest villages
4. The Spread Eagle at Sawley
Sitting beside the ruins of Sawley Abbey, The Spread Eagle at Sawley offers one of the most scenic pub locations in the Ribble Valley. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, a quiet lunch or an evening meal, they've got a menu for every occasion.
With spectacular views across the countryside towards Pendle Hill, this award-winning pub is a wonderful destination for food lovers. Expect beautifully prepared dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Less than 20 mins from your lodge with Jacuzzi.
Why guests love it:
Walking routes nearby
High-quality seasonal food
Varied outdoor dining area options
5. The Assheton Arms, Downham
Set in the postcard-perfect village of Downham, The Assheton Arms is a true country gem. The village itself is famous for its traditional appearance and has even been used as a filming location for TV and film.
The pub offers a warm atmosphere, great food and a lovely setting at the foot of Pendle Hill. They also offer private dining spaces if your celebrating with family and friends and want that exclusive feel. Approx 20 minute drive from your hot tub lodge at Bowland Retreat.
Why it’s worth the visit:
Beautiful historic village setting
Ideal after exploring Pendle Hill
Classic country pub experience
There's one more, that's worth a visit in the area, nicely positioned next to 'the stepping stones' at Whitewell, and that's the The Inn at Whitewell . Jamie Cadman has served as the head chef at The Inn at Whitewell for eighteen years, earning a devoted and passionate following. He is committed to using only locally sourced ingredients, including seasonal grouse from Lancashire Moor, pheasant and partridge from Dunsop shoot, Bowland beef, and Lonk lamb from Burholme Farm, all of which are visible from the Inn’s windows.
Relax, Explore and Enjoy the Best of the Ribble Valley
A stay at Bowland Retreat Lodges offers the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration. Spend your days discovering charming villages, scenic walks and outstanding country pubs, before returning to your lodge for a peaceful evening soaking in your private hot tub.
Whether you’re planning a romantic hot tub break in the Ribble Valley or simply a relaxing countryside escape, great food and welcoming pubs are always close by.
Other links
Countryside walks and Country pubs go hand in hand, and there are so many only a short distance from Bowland Retreat Lodges, browse the range of walks here - with varying length, terrain and difficulty levels.
If you are after a more fine dining experience then we also have a gem of local celebrity chefs and Michelin star, award winning restaurants, please get in touch for recommendations.
The Three Fishes Mitton ( walkable distance from lodges)
Toms Table Clitheroe (10 min drive from lodges)
For specific reccomendations for particular occassions please get in touch with the Bowland Team!
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