Ribchester Tourist Information

A personal account of Ribchester: Ribchester was a serendipitous discovery for us. Turning aside to visit the Roman fort, we discovered a pretty little village containing not only the Roman fort - of which the granaries and the bath house are visible - but also a fascinating museum crammed with things I have not seen elsewhere: leather panels from a legionary tent, for example, a maledictory sheet of lead on which some aggrieved Roman had inscribed a desire that his oppressor should be smitten by thunderbolts, and much else.

The parish church was most interesting, with unusual dormer windows in the nave roof flooding the building with light, mediaeval wall paintings and stained glass, fascinating table tombs (including one to a man who was cut off in his prime - 60+ - through falling into a pit) and surrounded by a manicured lawn as smooth as a bowling green.

What struck us most of all, however, was the friendliness of everyone we encountered, from the woman who went out of her way to show us where the bath house was to the builders who wished us a good day as we passed. We didn't have time to sample the local hostelries, but if the town is anything to go by, a warm and genuine welcome awaits anyone who visits them. There is also a small art gallery featuring the works of a local artist.

There are walks beside the Ribble and Pendle Hill can be seen in the distance. Nearby is an tiny country church - Anglican - with an 18th century Roman Catholic bishop buried in the chancel. Just down the hill is the Roman Catholic church in a beautifully converted barn.

Description by Kendall Down