Every bottle on our wine list at Abbot's Court is proudly sourced from The Whalley Wine Bar, the Ribble Valley's premier fine wine experts. Want to try more? Walk down the road to visit their beautiful King Street bar to enjoy a world-class glass, fantastic craft beers, and artisan local cheeses during your stay. For a special occasion, Northcote offers award-winning fine dining just a short drive away, The Three Fishes in Mitton showcases exceptional seasonal dishes in a charming countryside setting while The Aspinall Arms serves up hearty pub classics in a beautiful riverside setting. For something more relaxed, Yu Copster Green is another local favourite worth seeking out.
The Ribble Valley is rich with places to explore, from the ruins of Whalley Abbey and Clitheroe Castle to the tranquil remains of Sawley Abbey. History lovers can also follow the Tolkien Trail, said to have inspired parts of Middle-earth, or step back further in time at the Ribchester Roman Bath House. For something a little different, Browsholme Hall offers a glimpse into centuries of Lancashire heritage, while the Wild Boar Park makes for a fun family outing. To end the day on a relaxing note, Deep Beauty Spa offers a range of treatments nearby.
Two easy, self-guided walks let you explore the area on foot, both starting right from Abbot's Court.
Whalley Abbey, Viaduct & Village Loop
Just five minutes from Abbot's Court, this loop takes in the Abbey's ruins, its historic gatehouse and Lancashire's longest viaduct, looping back through the village. Exit onto Station Road towards the centre, continuing onto The Sands to reach the Abbey (open daily, 8am–6pm, free entry). From the Abbey, turn left past the English Martyrs church garden and gatehouse to the 1840s viaduct over the River Calder. Cross via the footpath bridge to Longworth Road, then back along Whalley Road and King Street, past the parish church and looping to The Sands where the village shops and cafés await.
Clitheroe Castle Loop
A short train ride from Abbot's Court (Whalley station is right opposite) brings you to Clitheroe, a Saxon-era market town beneath its 12th-century Norman castle. From the station, follow Station Road past Booths, round to Parson Lane, and along the path below the castle to the museum forecourt. Continue past the Pinnacle sculpture for views over the Ribble Valley and Pendle Hill, then down to Castle Street, via Church Brow to St Mary Magdalene's church, looping back through Church Close and Railway View Road to the station.
For golf enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers a fine choice of courses, including Clitheroe Golf Club, Blackburn Golf Club, and Pleasington Golf Club, each set amid classic Lancashire countryside. If you'd rather explore on two wheels, iCycle in nearby Clitheroe offers bike hire, making it easy to discover the Ribble Valley's quiet lanes and scenic routes at your own pace.
