The River Ribble

from source to sea
Part 12 - Clitheroe

This map shows the river to its confluence with the Hodder. Pan south to see the location of the remainder of the photographs.

Clitheroe main street

This view along Clitheroe's main street shows the castle in the distance. Although only a small town, Clitheroe is the largest settlement which the river has passed so far. This street is lined with traditional shops, including an award winning butcher (appropriately called Cowman) who sells an amazing range of home-made sausages.

The first or second weekend in June usually sees folk performers in this street, as part of the town's Great Days of Folk event.

Clitheroe Castle

The castle itself was built in Norman times, the keep standing on an outcrop of limestone. In the castle grounds are a local museum, the North West Sound Archive, tennis courts, an outdoor arena and other amenities.

Clitheroe Market

Clitheroe market is housed in recently built accommodation, but it has a history going back for centuries. Market days are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Booth's supermarket

The traditional shops do have to compete with supermarkets. This one, built in the 60s or 70s, belongs to a local company. Just out of the town centre there are more recent buildings by national supermarket chains.

Edisford Bridge

The river flows about a mile form the town centre. This is Edisford Bridge, to the west of the town. There is a large car park by the river, along with swimming pool, playground, miniature railway and other leisure amenities.

Cromwell's Bridge, River Hodder

We'll take detour from the Ribble, this is one of the main tributaries, the Hodder, and a photograph of the so-called Cromwell's Bridge. In 1684 Cromwell is reputed to have made the decision to march westwards - resulting in the Battle of Preston.

Confluence of Calder & Ribble

The Hodder joins the Ribble a mile or so north west of Whalley - but this isn't it. I couldn't manage to take a clear shot because of bushes on the river bank.

About 1 mile further south a second major tributary joins the Ribble - but this one comes from the industrial south, rather than the rural north.

Viaduct over Ribble

We're now back on the Ribble, south of Hurst Green, where this viaduct carries drinking water from the Lake District to Manchester.

Go to: River Ribble Part 11
River Ribble Part 13
River Ribble index page. Graham and Lin Dean's home page.