Pictures of Clitheroe

About Clitheroe

Enter the town of Clitheroe and one glimpse of the ruined castle rising above the town, reminds you that this is an ancient place with a long and illustrious history.

The castle, built by Robert de Lacy in 1186 is said to be one of the oldest buildings in Lancashire and it is the only castle remaining in Lancashire which was held by royalists during the Civil War. When it was built by de Lacy it was to protect his estate, which was called the Honour of Clitheroe. These days, the once vast lands are now diminished and the much smaller Honour of Clitheroe is owned by Lord Clitheroe who lives at Downham Hall.

The castle may have dominated the town for centuries but it was from the great days of the cotton industry that the town flourished as an industrial centre. Coton from here was exported all over Europe and beyond, the industry gave strength and stability to the town.

An interesting tale survives concerning Pendle Hill to the east of the town - it is said to have been linked to the trial of several Lancashire women, who were executed for crimes of witchcraft. On a wild and windy day the 1,830ft hill takes on a sinister appearance, sending a chill down your spine!

In this charming town visitors are assured of a warm Lancastrian welcome, there are delightful shops and some interesting old inns and public houses. A museum tells of the history of the town and surrounding countryside. A short distance away are the magnificent rivers and fells of the moors and the glorious Bowland Forest.