Great British Heritage
Country Houses of the Ribble Valley
Here is a chance to visit unspoiled England, a landscape south of the much-visited Lake District, which remains as remote as it was two hundred years ago.
The Forest of Bowland in the Ribble Valley is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and boasts stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic buildings with stunning architectural details, and expansive gardens.
All will be explored and illuminated with Nicholas Merchant’s trademark wit and erudition.
what’s included
At A Glance
MEET YOUR EXPERT GUIDE
Nicholas Merchant
Nicholas is a highly respected lecturer in the decorative and fine arts and an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society. His wide knowledge was developed through work with leading auction houses, including Sotheby’s, before he established a specialist book business devoted to the decorative arts.
Nicholas has led Travel Editions tours in the UK and Europe for close to fifteen years. His convivial style, wit and erudition illuminate every visit, whether he is discussing a country house, a collection or a single remarkable object, and his tours are informative, interesting and above all entertaining.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrival in the Ribble Valley and Welcome Talk
Arrive independently at the Longridge House Hotel from 15.00 then this evening there will be a welcome reception, dinner with wine and an introductory talk from Nicholas Merchant.
Day 2: Stonyhurst College, Great Mitton Church and Browsholme Hall
We start our tour with a visit to Stonyhurst College. Donated to the Jesuits in 1794 when they were expelled from Liège, Stonyhurst is a breath-taking Elizabethan mansion with a rich history dating back to 1200 AD. As well as the architecture and expansive grounds, we explore the college’s historic collections, featuring rare books, manuscripts, and artefacts that reflect its rich Jesuit heritage.
Our next visit of the day is to Great Mitton Church. Dating back to the late 13th century, this Grade I listed building features Gothic architecture, medieval woodwork, and a sundial from 1683.
Free time for lunch in Clitheroe (not included), then an afternoon visit to Browsholme Hall, set in the forest of Bowland. It was built in 1507 and is the oldest surviving family home in Lancashire, still occupied by the Parker family. We take a guided tour of the historic hall, and have time to explore the landscaped gardens before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3: Lytham Hall and Harris Art Gallery
Lytham Hall is a fine Grade I listed Georgian country house set within 80 acres of historic parkland, where the Clifton family have lived for over 400 years. We enjoy a welcome talk on arrival, followed by a guided tour of the hall to view the Palladian architecture.
A light lunch is included in the cafe. The Harris Art Gallery towers over the centre of Preston as a memorial to Victorian philanthropy. The donation of a local lawyer, its architecture is so dramatic as to suggest it has escaped from the Unter den Linden in Berlin. Its contents are no less proud, including copies of the “Gates of Paradise” designed by Ghiberti for the Duomo in Florence. Paintings are represented by the local “lad” Arthur Devis, renowned for his portraits of local gentry and his resemblance to “Bonny Prince Charlie”. Aside from him, there are the British Paintings of the 19th century, a bequest by a founder of the museum, as well as 20th-century paintings including a beautiful portrait of James Gunn’s wife in a striking yellow dress.
We enjoy a guided tour of the gallery with the curator, then return to the hotel. A second talk by Nicholas this evening, followed by dinner.
Day 4: Gawthorpe Textile Collection and Gawthorpe Hall
Our final day of touring starts at the Gawthorpe Textile Collection, an internationally renowned museum founded by Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, with a collection of over 30,000 textile and craft items . Located in a redeveloped 19th century cotton mill, the collection includes lace, embroidery, and accessories spanning five centuries. The curator will lead us on a tour of the collection.
After time for lunch (own expense) we travel to the Elizabethan country house of Gawthorpe Hall which is managed by the National Trust. Built in the early 17th century by the Shuttleworth family, the hall was extensively rebuilt in the mid-19th century by Sir Charles Barry, the architect of the Houses of Parliament. We view the impressive collection of portraits and textiles, and have time to explore the beautiful gardens.
Return to the hotel for approximately 17.15.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“This holiday was filled with fascinating visits to country houses. The itinerary was beautifully organised, and every part of the experience was a pleasure.”
Richard Grant, travelled August 2025
“It was a real treat to enjoy such a well-planned holiday, with an excellent choice of houses to visit and a first-rate hotel. The guides were knowledgeable and added greatly to the enjoyment of each place.”
Ms H, travelled August 2025
“A very rewarding experience, with a comfortable hotel and excellent service throughout. The visits were most enjoyable, and the tour was enhanced by the guidance and charm of our lecturer. A thoroughly memorable trip.”
Mr C, travelled August 2025
“Every part of this holiday was a pleasure, from the carefully chosen houses to the outstanding coach travel. The drivers were superb, and the organisation faultless, making it a journey to treasure.”
Ms J, travelled August 2025
“The whole holiday was full of interest, with Rufford Old Hall and Gawthorpe Hall particular highlights. The combination of historic houses, warm hospitality, and excellent organisation made for a truly enjoyable experience.”
Ms F, travelled August 2025
“The visit to Stonyhurst College was especially memorable, but all the houses offered much to enjoy. The hotel was excellent, and the food was of the highest standard, making the holiday one of the best I have experienced.”
Mr B, travelled August 2025
“This holiday was extremely well organised, with a welcoming hotel and a carefully balanced programme of visits. Each day was full of interest, and the whole experience was both rewarding and relaxing.”
John Morton, travelled August 2025
“The Ribble Valley proved to be a wonderful setting for a holiday of fine food, beautiful houses, and warm hospitality. With excellent organisation and friendly local drivers, it was a most memorable and enjoyable experience.”
Janice Roberts, travelled August 2025
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Longridge House Hotel
This boutique countryside hotel with manicured gardens is set in a peaceful location in the Ribble Valley, well located to reach the places visited on this itinerary. Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar, gardens and comfortable bedrooms with all modern amenities including en-suite bathroom, TV, radio, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.
Parking: complimentary
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
Fresh Adventures for Inquisitive Travellers
Why Choose Travel Editions?
Travel with purpose, passion, and like-minded companions, here’s what sets Travel Editions apart.
Designed for Travellers,
Not Tourists
Founded in 1994 offering unique cultural tours beyond typical high street itineraries.
Personal Service, Real People
Small, friendly team with no automated phone lines. Enjoy personal attention from our team.
Expert Tour Guides, Unique Insights
Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
Win a 2027 Holiday for Two!
Sign Up To Our
Newsletter For A
Chance To Win
Our newsletter is where you will hear about new tours first, along with travel insights from our leaders and occasional notes from the destinations we visit. We send it thoughtfully: no noise, just the things we think you will genuinely want to read.
"*" indicates required fields
