This hidden gem is tucked away in West Lancashire with charming attractions and breathtaking views — a truly spectacular getaway.
This little UK village should make it to your 2026 travel list(Image: James Maloney/Lancs Live)
There’s a secret treasure of a village nestled in West Lancashire which is bursting with delightful attractions and stunning views – and it absolutely deserves a spot on your 2026 travel itinerary.
Boasting a magnificent marina, charming waterfront eateries, Tudor architecture, fantastic pubs and nearby nature reserves plus animal farms – this compact village is genuinely remarkable.
Despite sitting in a prime Lancashire location – positioned where the Leeds and Liverpool Canal meets the River Douglas, Ormskirk and Preston Railway, plus the bustling A59 – it’s frequently ignored thanks to its reputation as a ‘commuter town’, which means most folk simply drive through without giving it a second glance.
Encircled by beautiful countryside and crammed with wonderful attractions, this enchanting settlement provides visitors with far more than initially apparent.
With its distinctive white-painted properties, magnificent marina panoramas, ancient waterway, and superb retail outlets, Rufford village in Lancashire stands as the ultimate destination.
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Magnificent marina
The Leeds Liverpool canal flows directly through Rufford’s centre and connects to St Mary’s Marina plus Fetler’s Wharf Marina, both offering breathtaking panoramas and peaceful waters.
Offering a scenic retreat, Fettlers Wharf Marina sits amid verdant surroundings and creates a perfect backdrop for soaking up the peace and serenity of the local area.
This dog-friendly riverside haven provides waterside dining delights for guests, whilst nature paths and picturesque lakeside strolls enhance its appeal. The well-kept walkways give visitors fantastic chances to enjoy spotting local wildlife and plant life, reports Lancs Live.
Outstanding waterside cafés
Tastebuds at the Wharf is a charming canalside café nestled beside the picturesque Fettlers Wharf Marina.
Serving up various delights such as breakfast, lunch, afternoon teas, and an enticing selection of cakes and scones, during bright spring weather, guests can soak up the rays on the café’s terrace whilst savouring the tranquil marina panorama.
Another exceptional waterside establishment is The Boathouse Brasserie, which commands views across St Mary’s Marina.
Located within a
converted dairy farm, this family-operated venue launched in 2008 and delivers breathtaking perspectives over the thriving marina. The café showcases a delightful alfresco dining space facing the water, featuring its own pergola and cosy outdoor pods for diners to unwind in.
Things to do in Rufford
A trip to Rufford Old Hall is essential. This magnificent Tudor mansion and its colourful gardens have remained in National Trust custody since 1936.
It functioned as the Hesketh family home for more than five centuries before Rufford New Hall was built in Rufford Park.
Fascinatingly, legend has it that the Old Hall’s Great Hall once hosted a young William Shakespeare before his meteoric rise to stardom. Guests can also explore the Old Hall’s stunning Victorian and Edwardian gardens.
Meanwhile, Rufford New Hall was acquired by Lancashire County Council in 1920, before being converted into a pulmonary hospital for tuberculosis patients in 1926. It remains operational as a hospital to this day.
Another site worth discovering in Rufford is the Church of St Mary the Virgin, erected in 1869. This red brick Gothic-style parish church, complete with steeple, holds Grade II Listed status.
The Hesketh Arms, a three-storey property thought to date from the late 18th century, stands as another popular destination for visitors to the village.
This impressive historic inn boasts Grade II listed status and serves everything from traditional ales to pub favourites and dishes featuring seasonal ingredients.
It’s celebrated for welcoming guests with a warm, countryside-pub atmosphere from the moment they arrive, whilst the outside space proves equally delightful, featuring plenty of seating perfect for savouring a drink on summer days.
Situated mere moments from the village centre lies Mere Sands Wood – a nature reserve under the stewardship of the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.
Boasting 42 hectares of wildlife observation points and walking trails, plus its own visitor centre and café, it makes for an excellent destination for an outing with loved ones.
Other attractions near Rufford include the Windmill Animal Farm, which houses numerous rare breeds of exotic farm animals and boasts indoor and outdoor play areas.
The Martin Mere Wetlands Centre also makes an excellent option for a family day out. This marshland sanctuary and nature reserve carries international significance and provides year-round family-friendly attractions.