The castle at Clitheroe

Clitheroe castle dates back to at least 1186 and perhaps even further back to the Domesday Book in 1086. It stands on a natural rock outcrop overlooking the Ribble Valley so its strategic importance is easy to understand.

The castle was a motte and bailey construction (the motte being the circular mound and bailey the courtyard and walls that surrounded it) with a square keep. and was originally defended by a moat, which has long since disappeared.

The walls of the square castle keep are still very much intact, although the floors have long gone, but as the basic shape of the castle is still in place the castle is a striking landmark for miles around.


From the castle walls there is normally a wonderful view around the Ribble Valley, including Pendle Hill, Longridge Fell and the Bowland Hills, however today the mist nmeant visibility was very poor and all the surrounding hills were completely obscured.

After a wander around the centre of town, including a visit to the excellent Emporium, we drove on to Bashall Eaves to visit the Barn farm shop - where there was also an opportunity to take a photo across the valley back to the castle, silhouetted in the mist against the dull sky. A leisurely way to spend a day off!