It has been called Lancashire’s ‘most beautiful village’, and it’s easy to see – the picturesque spot is so well-kept it feels a world away from modern life
It is a sought after location for film and TV productions (Image: MEN)
This stunning village is meticulously maintained by the family that owns it, seamlessly blending into its scenic surroundings whilst remaining within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Downham is part of the historic Assheton Estate, belonging to the notable Lancashire family, the Asshetons. Given this ownership, at their behest, the area is devoid of any traces of contemporary life amongst its idyllic cottages and undulating countryside. There are no TV aerials or telephone wires running in between houses, nor are there any road signs. This uniqueness makes the village feel even more otherworldly, as they have held ownership for more than 450 years.
This enables them to make choices that preserve the historic charm of the location, with all properties in Downham, including farms, being leased out to prevent any further contemporary encroachments. One attraction that lures numerous visitors to the region is the magnificent manor house, Downham Hall, which has remained in the family’s possession since 1558.
Yet at the village’s centre lies the welcoming pub, the Assheton Arms, where you can enjoy hearty fare in a classic pub environment. The establishment itself radiates history through its low-beamed ceilings, aged timbers and period features, providing the perfect relaxed ambience.
Guests consistently post glowing TripAdvisor reviews following their visits, with many describing the venue as “beautiful”. One visitor wrote: “We had the pleasure of a two-night stay at the Assheton Arms after reading many positive reviews. From our arrival to our departure, our experience was nothing short of exceptional.
“The manager and his staff could not do enough for us, and the quality of our accommodation was everything we hoped for. Advance dining reservations were made for both evenings of our stay, and the food was of a very high standard and plentiful. We will certainly return.”
Another guest shared: “Beyond the fantastic accommodation, the food was outstanding. Every dish was beautifully presented and full of flavour, using high-quality ingredients. The pub itself has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside – such a peaceful and scenic location.”
This picturesque location has served as a filming destination for numerous productions throughout the years, including the 1961 classic, Whistle Down The Wind. The BBC also chose it for Born and Bred, whilst it featured in another BBC drama in 2012 called The Secret of Crickley Hall, owing to its genuine rural charm.
Whilst wandering through the locale, visitors frequently discover St Leonard’s Church, positioned next to the village inn. Guest reviews highlight it as “picturesque” and “peaceful”, boasting its 15th century tower constructed in 1910. One reviewer noted: “Very picturesque church in a most beautiful village. Parts of the church date back to the 15th century.”