We’re so lucky in the UK to have some many gorgeous castles to remind us of the long and rich history of our country. It’s incredible that so many have survived so many hundreds of years, and one that we’re particularly proud of is Clitheroe Castle, as it’s less than an hour from Manchester, and in fact, it’s the second smallest Norman castle in England.
Set in the lovely town of Clitheroe, Clitheroe Castle stands tall from Castle Hill, overlooking the town and the nearby Forest of Bowland. Said to have been built in 1186 by Robert de Lacy, the Norman keep of the castle is reputed to be the second smallest in England, but it has been suggested that a wooden structure may have preceded the stone foundation as this was an important strategic location.
The Ribble Valley in which Clitheroe and its castle lie has been an important route since ancient times. A Roman road runs past the castle, leading to a Roman fort in the north east and towards the Fylde coast in the west.
The cramped stone building is enclosed within a curtain wall, only part of which remains. After the death of Henry de Lacy in 1311, the castle passed to the Earldom of Lancaster, and then became the property of the Duchy of Lancaster. The castle was used during the Wars of the Roses, when Edward IV arranged a budget for its repair. However, it seems to have soon been in a state of disrepair.
Credit: @independentlancashire via Instagram
Still standing almost three storeys high but now roofless, the keep was damaged by Parliamentary forces during the English Civil War, and the castle was privately owned until 1920 when it was sold to the local council to establish a memorial to the First World War.
Within the Clitheroe Castle grounds is now a museum, located in the eighteenth-century Castle House, which transports visitors through 350 million years of local history. The journey starts with the formation of the landscape we see today and why the Ribble Valley is a haven for unique wildlife.
Moving through the galleries the captivating story of the Castle and surrounding area continues to unfold. From local industry and heroes to folklore and legends the exhibits, touchscreen animations and sound points make it a shared experience for everyone to enjoy.
Relax on the hill that surrounds Clitheroe Castle and take in spectacular views, or check out some of the amazing historical items that are still housed at the museum today, and explore any number of activities for all the family. Currently, the likes of the ‘Dinoroar’ children’s competition hunt, Cuthbert the Bad and the Lancashire Witches exhibit, and spring crafting sessions are on offer, plus so much more – all of which you can keep tabs on through the website.
Find more information about Clitheroe Castle and book ahead here.
📍 Clitheroe Castle, Clitheroe, BB7 1BA