Discover Longridge: History and Landscape

Longridge sits on a raised ridge above the surrounding landscape, with views across the Ribble Valley. The town’s history also has several tangible points of interest: its railway heritage, historic quarries and buildings from different periods. Berry Lane is in the centre of Longridge, where independent shops line the main street.

Railway Heritage and Local History

The Heritage and Visitor Centre is in the centre of Longridge, next to the former Preston and Longridge Railway, and is housed in a converted former railway station. The Centre is run by a team of volunteers. If you are planning a visit, check visitor arrangements before setting out. The Town Archive includes photographs, audio recordings and documents about the history of Longridge. These different formats offer different ways to explore the town’s past, bringing images, recordings and written materials together.

Another railway landmark is Stone Bridge, built over the railway line in 1847. St Lawrence’s Church in Longridge dates back at least to the early 16th century. Club Row on Higher Road is known as “Weavers’ Cottage” and is regarded as an important part of the history of building societies. These examples highlight different aspects of local history. Stone Bridge has a stated construction date; the church dates back at least to the early 16th century.

Memorials and Historic Quarries

A leaflet for Longridge’s Blue Plaques, Monuments & Memorials describes a circular walk that takes in all the plaques and memorials. You can include this part of the town’s history as a separate theme in your plans. Longridge’s historic quarries extend for about two-thirds of a mile (1 kilometre). They complement the town’s railway and architectural heritage with a look at its industrial past.

Things to Do in Town and on Longridge Fell

The Longridge Pump Track is 175 metres long and 2 metres wide. Its rollers and banked turns are up to 1.8 metres high. Another place for activities is the orienteering course at the upper end of John Smiths Park on Chaigley Road.

Longridge Fell is just a short drive from Longridge. The area is suitable for walks and hikes of varying difficulty and is also used for gliding and paragliding. If you are planning activities there, check local conditions and access.

There are several interests to choose from: Longridge’s architectural and local history, its memorials, sports facilities and the landscape of the Fell. When searching for hotels in Longridge, first decide which of these is most important for your stay. Then check whether the location of a particular hotel suits the places you plan to visit.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Whalley, Appley Bridge, Oswaldtwistle, Hutton, Wrea Green, Bickerstaffe, Whittingham, Calder Vale

For the main travel overview: Lancashire.