- Lancashire
- 1 hour, 3 minutes · Bus
5, Clitheroe to Chipping
Pendle perfection as Clitheroe combines with charming Chipping
Food and drink
Countryside
Family Friendly
History & Heritage
Key info
About this journey
Pendle perfection as Clitheroe combines with charming Chipping
Journey overview
As the number 5 bus pulls away from Clitheroe Interchange, the cobbled charm of the market town quickly gives way to the soft bustle of Castle Street. Clitheroe Castle rises behind the rooftops like a stone sentinel, perched on its mound, peering out across the Ribble Valley. Soon the bus rolls past the cricket club and the shops thin out, fields unfurling in green and gold as it edges toward Barrow. A glimpse of Pendle Hill lingers in the distance, ever-present, looming and brooding like a myth woven into the land itself.
Barrow slips by in a flurry of new builds and stone terraces, then Whalley approaches with its long ribbon of high street life. Though the bus doesn’t divert toward the ancient Abbey ruins, you sense their quiet dignity just beyond the trees. A glance right from the upper deck reveals the church spire and mossy gravestones, with the River Calder whispering beneath a stone bridge. Climbing the rise through Whalley’s heart, past wine bars and warm-lit restaurants, the view opens behind, rooftops folding into misty hillsides.
The bus surges upward into countryside now, curving into Hurst Green. The Shireburn Arms comes into view, proud on its perch, its windows catching the light, and just beyond it the landscape yawns open into deep Ribble Valley beauty, patchwork fields bordered by dry stone walls, sheep dotted like punctuation marks. At Ribchester, Roman ghosts seem to linger behind sandstone cottages, and the Ribble curls past with unhurried grace.
Through Longridge, its red-brick rows and busy streets speak of working roots and quiet pride. Then onward to Chipping, where hills press in close and the past seems nearer. By the time the bus sweeps past Kirklands Estate, the trees whisper and fields sway gently, a rural rhythm unmatched.
Fab day out
Start your day in Clitheroe, catching the morning Number 5 bus from the Interchange. Before setting off, take a short wander through the town’s market, especially lively on a Tuesday, where stalls brim with local cheeses, fresh bread, and handmade crafts. Pop into D. Byrne & Co., a labyrinthine wine shop that feels more like a cellar from another era. From there, stroll up to Clitheroe Castle, the panoramic views from the top are worth the climb, and the small museum offers a thoughtful insight into the town’s layered history. Grab a coffee from a nearby café before hopping back on the bus.
The journey to Whalley is short but scenic. Once there, make your way down to the atmospheric ruins of Whalley Abbey. Though the bus doesn’t take you to the gates, it’s just a few minutes' walk from the main road. The abbey grounds are peaceful, a green haven of gothic arches and time-worn stone. Back in the village, browse the independent shops or enjoy lunch at one of the cosy pubs or stylish wine bars along the high street, many offering dishes made with local produce.
Reboard the bus and continue to Ribchester, a small village with a deep Roman past. Visit the Ribchester Roman Museum, modest but packed with fascinating finds, then follow the trail to the remains of the Roman baths. The riverside walk is calm and lovely, especially on a warm day.
In the afternoon, head to Chipping. Time slows here. Walk the quiet lanes, admire the traditional stone buildings, and if you’re still hungry, treat yourself to tea and cake at the village tearoom. Explore the nearby countryside if time allows. As the sun lowers, catch the bus back, tired, content, and full of Lancashire charm.
Plan your route
Plan your route to this Great Scenic Journey
The map below shows where this journey begins.
🥾 Walking routes
Stretch your legs along the way
Take your scenic journey to the next level, hop off and explore on foot with this curated walk from the expert team at Go Jauntly, the walking app.
Stops & experiences
Places to visit & things to do on this journey
7 attractions the route passes, handpicked. Hover a card for a quick description.
- Countryside
- History & Heritage
Clitheroe Castle
Clitheroe Castle, a prominent landmark perched atop a limestone mound in the heart of Clitheroe, offers visitors a fascinating journey through history and stunning panoramic views…
- Family Friendly
- Food and drink
Independent Shops
Markets
Shopping and eating in Clitheroe
Shopping in Clitheroe is a treat for those seeking unique finds and locally crafted goods. The town boasts a variety of independent shops and boutiques, showcasing everything from…
- Countryside
- History & Heritage
Major Landmarks
Walking and Hiking
Pendle Hill
Pendle Hill is an iconic landmark in Lancashire, rising to 557 metres (1,827 feet) above sea level. Situated near the towns of Clitheroe, Burnley, and Nelson, it dominates the…
- Countryside
- Food and drink
- History & Heritage
Whalley
Whalley, a picturesque village nestled in the Ribble Valley, is a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and rural charm. The village’s centerpiece is the iconic Whalley Abbey…
- Countryside
- History & Heritage
Whalley Abbey
Whalley Abbey, nestled in the serene Ribble Valley, is a historic Cistercian monastery that offers visitors a captivating journey through time amidst tranquil surroundings…
- Countryside
- History & Heritage
Nature & Wildlife
Ribchester
Ribchester is a picturesque village nestled on the banks of the River Ribble in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire. With its cobbled streets, historic charm, and peaceful riverside…
- Countryside
- History & Heritage
Chipping
Chipping is a picturesque village nestled on the edge of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in rural Lancashire. Steeped in history and surrounded by lush…
