If you heard the news this morning, there’s going to be an awful lot of attention on Preston in the coming months, with BBC Radio 2 Live in the Park heading there this September! As you’ll be hearing on air, Preston is a magnificent part of the country and well worth visiting at any time of the year (not just 7th and 8th Sept!)….

As the bank holidays and half terms come around, like you, we felt like it was time to get away. With two children and a small dog in our family, we often prefer a staycation and so in the most recent holidays, we set about finding a place that would meet all of our needs.

This time around, we didn’t really want anywhere for self-catering, we felt like we really needed a rest and therefore a hotel would be more suited to our needs. After some research as to what the North of England had to offer, we came across Gibbon Bridge Hotel.

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Lancashire hills, Gibbon Bridge Hotel is truly a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape. My family and I descended in and it exceeded all our expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and we’ll certainly be returning.

From the moment we arrived, everything felt chilled. The very friendly and helpful receptionist gave us plenty of useful information. Our accommodation was brilliant. With thirty uniquely designed bedrooms, including spacious suites, Gibbon Bridge Hotel ensures every guest experiences a stay tailored to perfection. The personal touch in the design and furnishings added an extra layer of warmth and individuality, making us feel truly at home. We loved the split-level room, in fact the kid’s first reaction was a huge “wow!”. It meant they were able to relax upstairs whilst we put our feet up with the dog watching downstairs. We used the tea and coffee facilities and took some time to what us parents never do… stop. The rain was lashing down at this point, and it just made the place feel even more cosy and relaxed.

Dining at Gibbon Bridge is an experience in itself. The restaurant is superb. Nestled amidst the verdant surroundings, it offers a culinary journey showcasing the finest local produce, which for us, made it feel very special. From freshly baked bread to decadent desserts, every bite was a testament to the hotel’s commitment to excellence. Whether enjoying a leisurely meal in the Conservatory or savoring a pre-dinner drink on the garden terrace, every moment was a gastronomic delight and the restaurant was a cut above similar places we have been to. We must also credit the incredibly helpful bar staff, who took the time to ask us about our hopes for our stay and wrote us out a whole list of recommended places to visit.

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I’m one to judge a hotel by its breakfast and my word, Gibbon Bridge delivered. I mean really, this breakfast was of the caliber of breakfasts i’ve enjoyed in very fancy London hotels. It was that good. Everything you could want was on offer. No cheap and nasty sausages, only the very finest local produce. We were able to take our time to enjoy it in the most relaxing and smart setting, looking over stunning gardens and this alone made the stay worthwhile.

The hotel’s dedication to guest comfort is evident in every detail. From the well-appointed rooms with all the modern amenities to the various function spaces perfect for any occasion, Gibbon Bridge Hotel leaves no stone unturned in ensuring a memorable stay for all. Moreover, their commitment to accessibility with specially designed rooms for guests with mobility needs further demonstrates their inclusive approach to hospitality.

Set against the backdrop of the unspoiled landscapes of the Forest of Bowland and the picturesque villages of the Ribble Valley, the hotel is a real gem nestled in the most beautiful part of the country. Whether strolling through the lush gardens or gazing out at the rolling hills, every moment felt like a postcard-worthy scene. After a good night’s sleep in the very comfortable bed, the sun was shining and off we went. We explored a number of local towns, including the sublime market town of Clitheroe, which featured in the Take That film Greatest Days, recently. There is so much to do in the area, we affirmed between us many times that we simply have to go back.

Before checking out of Gibbon Bridge, we were lucky enough to view the wedding facilities. This included a luxurious suite which was literally the size of a house! Ideal for the night before and day of a wedding, Gibbon Bridge have thought of everything here… the bridesmaids would most certainly love the dressing room area, that’s for sure! We said we would absolutely love to revisit with wider family and stay here – even though there are no weddings planned! Extremely impressive, we can only imagine how beautiful a wedding would be here. Likewise, the hotel offers an impressive array of events all year long, so do have a look as there may be a special afternoon tea, dinner or something else going on.

In conclusion, Gibbon Bridge Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination where tranquility meets luxury, and every moment is infused with warmth and hospitality. Everyone was so welcoming and our children just loved every single minute of it there. Whether embarking on a family getaway or celebrating a special occasion, this hidden gem in Lancashire is sure to leave a lasting impression. We can’t wait to return and create even more cherished memories in this idyllic retreat.

All the information you need, including details of their current special offers, can be found at gibbon-bridge.co.uk