The picturesque village has one single road running through it and is home to a beloved country restaurant with rave reviews — ideal to spend a day in the countryside.
The stunning village boasts a rich history and breathaking views(Image: The Calf’s Head)
A charming Lancashire village featuring just one street and boasting a highly-rated country restaurant offers the perfect destination for your next family day out or catch-up with mates.
This distinctive linear village lies next to the renowned Pendle Hill, which provides a breathtaking backdrop to this peaceful hamlet.
Tucked away in the Ribble Valley district, east of the bustling market town of Clitheroe, this compact village serves as an ideal location for a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
Its solitary road runs through the settlement before narrowing to a single-track lane leading to neighbouring Downham.
Despite the conservation village of Worston being relatively under the radar, it provides plenty of attractions for a fulfilling day trip.
A serene haven away from urban hustle and bustle, Worston boasts a fascinating and layered past. Back in 1778, workmen broadening the village road to Chatburn discovered 1,000 Roman coins (Denarii) in this modest settlement.
There’s also a prehistoric burial site located on Worsaw Hill, reports Lancs Live.
Located a stone’s throw from the village, Worsaw Hill is a Bronze Age burial mound displaying faint earthworks at its peak, potentially revealing traces of an ancient community from bygone times.
A cavern near the hill’s base enhances its enigmatic appeal, whilst the rocky outcrops and gentler slopes of Worsaw Hill prove excellent territory for fossil enthusiasts.
This tranquil single-track hamlet boasts numerous historical connections, featuring three Grade II Listed structures: the 17th-century Crow Hill Cottage, the 19th-century Worston Old Hall, and the Wall surrounding Worston Old Hall.
Remarkably, Worston Old Hall contains pieces of the historic Sawley Abbey embedded within its construction.
Tucked away beyond the village’s solitary main thoroughfare lies the remarkably intact remnants of an old bull ring, hidden within a compact meadow.
The stone and bronze tethering ring used during the bull-baiting period remains perfectly preserved on the village green.
This bull ring is thought to have been the epicentre of village activity in bygone days.
After the bull-baiting tradition faded, legend has it that anyone seeking confrontation would approach the bronze ring and rattle it vigorously to provoke a duel on the village green.
Charming countryside restaurant worth a visit
At the centre of tranquil Worston sits a much-loved rural restaurant and pub, treasured by locals and tourists alike.
The Calf’s Head ranks as Worston’s premier venue, earning an impressive 4.1 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor. It stands as the village’s sole dining and drinking destination.
With stunning vistas across Pendle Hill, the Calf’s Head serves authentic ales and an impressive wine collection, alongside a comprehensive menu featuring freshly prepared dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients. Its sprawling, well-kept gardens and outdoor dining space offer guests the opportunity to savour meals in the fresh air whilst taking in breathtaking views across the Lancashire countryside.
Diners have heaped praise on the food at Calf’s Head, with one guest sharing on Tripadvisor: “We were holidaying in the area and decided to try the Calf’s Head for an evening meal.
“We were not disappointed, the food was plentiful and tasty and it was so good to see some traditional meals on the menu. I loved the homely atmosphere in the restaurant, it was a dark November evening when we visited and it felt very cosy. We will return when we’re next in the area.”
Another glowing review says: “Just had the most amazing afternoon tea in celebration of family birthdays. Soup to start, unlimited tea, varied sandwiches, delicious cakes and scones with jam and cream.
“The staff were friendly, the views were stunning and we loved every part of it. Amazing value at £22.50 per person. Thank you so much.”
Meanwhile, another satisfied visitor said: “We stayed for two nights, having both breakfast and evening meal both days. Delicious food and great service on each occasion, despite the fact they were incredibly busy on Sunday. (Judging by the food, I’m not surprised – our lamb burgers with goat’s cheese and caramelised onions were superb, as was the lasagne.)
“The setting is perfect – in a lovely walled garden by a stream, in a pretty little village. Add in a comfy bed, tea and coffee-making facilities and piping hot water; we couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you!”
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