Cromwell's Bridge: A Historic Stone Crossing in Lancashire
Step back in time at Cromwell's Bridge, a Tudor stone crossing steeped in Civil War history and Tolkien-inspired charm amid tranquil Lancashire landscapes.
Cromwell's Bridge, built in 1562 near Clitheroe, Lancashire, is a picturesque stone bridge steeped in history. Named after Oliver Cromwell, who crossed it with his army in 1648 during the English Civil War, the bridge spans the River Hodder and offers tranquil riverside walks. It is rumored to have inspired Tolkien’s Brandywine Bridge, adding literary allure to its historical significance. The surrounding countryside provides scenic views and peaceful walking routes.
A brief summary to Cromwell's Bridge
- 9PW, Cromwell's Bridge, Clitheroe, BB7 9PW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes to enjoy the riverside trails comfortably.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the peaceful River Hodder banks.
- Check local weather forecasts as the area can be wet and muddy after rain.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Clitheroe, the journey to Cromwell's Bridge takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via local roads. Parking is available near the bridge in lay-bys or designated spots, though spaces can fill quickly during weekends and holidays. No parking fees apply.
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Bus and Walking
Limited bus services run from Clitheroe to nearby villages such as Whitewell, with travel times of around 40 to 60 minutes. From the bus stop, a 15 to 25-minute walk over gentle terrain leads to the bridge. Wear suitable footwear for unpaved paths.
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Walking
For those staying locally, scenic walking routes along the River Hodder offer a leisurely 1 to 2-hour hike to Cromwell's Bridge. Paths are well-marked but can be uneven in places, so moderate fitness and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Cromwell's Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cromwell's Bridge
A Tudor-Era Engineering Feat
Constructed in 1562, Cromwell's Bridge was commissioned by Sir Richard Shireburne of Stoneyhurst Hall along with local landowners. The bridge replaced an earlier wooden structure that had frequently suffered flood damage. Built by stonemason Richard Crossley, the stone bridge was designed to be durable and functional, resembling other important crossings in the region. Its sturdy arches and stone piers have withstood centuries of weather and use, making it a lasting example of Tudor-era infrastructure.Oliver Cromwell and the Civil War Legacy
The bridge gained its name from Oliver Cromwell, whose New Model Army crossed here in August 1648 on the eve of the decisive Battle of Preston. Cromwell’s forces marched across the bridge from Skipton to engage Royalist troops, a pivotal moment that helped end the English Civil War. The crossing at Cromwell's Bridge symbolized a strategic military advance that ultimately led to the execution of King Charles I and Cromwell’s rise as Lord Protector.Natural Beauty and Riverside Serenity
Nestled over the River Hodder, the bridge is surrounded by lush woodland and pastoral landscapes typical of the Ribble Valley. The area offers peaceful riverside walks along clear waters, inviting visitors to experience the tranquil countryside. The gentle flow of the river beneath the stone arches, combined with the verdant environment, creates a serene atmosphere ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.Literary Connections: The Tolkien Inspiration
Local lore suggests that Cromwell's Bridge may have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s depiction of the Brandywine Bridge in his Middle-earth tales. Tolkien spent time in the nearby area and is believed to have drawn inspiration from the scenic Hodder Valley and its historic landmarks. This connection adds a layer of cultural mystique, attracting fans of Tolkien’s works who seek to explore the landscapes that influenced his imagination.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The bridge and its surroundings are freely accessible year-round, with no admission fees. Visitors can enjoy gentle walks along well-maintained paths beside the river, suitable for most fitness levels. The site is popular for photography, especially during golden hours when the stonework and natural scenery are bathed in warm light. Nearby parking is available, though public transport options are limited, making a car the most practical way to visit.Preserving a Heritage Landmark
Cromwell's Bridge remains a cherished historical landmark that reflects Lancashire’s rich past. Efforts to maintain its structure and surroundings ensure that it continues to be a place of cultural and natural significance. The bridge stands as a testament to the region’s architectural heritage and its role in shaping English history, offering visitors a tangible link to the Tudor period and the Civil War era.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
Preston Cenotaph
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Lumb Viaduct
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Wayoh Reservoir
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Chorley's Flying Arches
23.3 km
Discover Chorley’s rare Victorian Flying Arches, a unique blend of historic railway engineering and modern heritage preservation.
Peel Tower
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Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Rivington Pike
26.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Rivington Pike Tower
26.1 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Heskin Hall Shopping Village
29.5 km
Explore Heskin Hall Shopping Village: A delightful blend of boutiques, cafes, and local artistry in a serene countryside setting.
Bury Transport Museum
29.9 km
Explore the fascinating history of transport in the North West at Bury Transport Museum, a unique attraction for all ages.
Robert Peel Statue
30.0 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Ashton Memorial
30.8 km
Discover the historical Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park, an architectural gem offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Sussex Avenue
31.5 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Malham Cove
31.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Malham Cove, a natural limestone amphitheater in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Queen Victoria Memorial, Lancaster
31.8 km
Explore the Queen Victoria Memorial, a stunning tribute to history and architecture in Lancaster's vibrant Dalton Square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whalley Arches
3.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Whalley Arches, Lancashire’s longest brick viaduct, blending Victorian engineering with stunning Ribble Valley scenery.
Whalley Viaduct
3.8 km
A stunning 48-arch brick railway viaduct soaring over Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, blending Victorian engineering with gothic echoes of nearby Whalley Abbey.
Whalley Abbey East Gatehouse
3.9 km
Explore the majestic 14th-century East Gatehouse of Whalley Abbey, a historic gateway to Lancashire’s rich medieval monastic heritage.
Clitheroe Castle Museum
4.6 km
Explore 800 years of history and stunning Ribble Valley views at Clitheroe Castle Museum, a family-friendly heritage site in Lancashire.
Tin Man Sculpture
5.8 km
A whimsical and iconic outdoor sculpture celebrating creativity amid the scenic landscapes of Langho, Blackburn.
Driscolls Antiques Ltd
6.3 km
Discover exquisite British antique furniture and expert restoration in Clitheroe’s welcoming family-run showroom.
Boyce's Wood
6.4 km
Discover peaceful trails and lush greenery in Boyce's Wood, a serene woodland retreat near Preston, Lancashire.
Ribchester Roman Museum
6.8 km
Explore Lancashire’s only Roman antiquities museum, showcasing Bremetenacum Veteranorum’s rich history through artifacts, ruins, and engaging events.
Nick of Pendle
6.8 km
Historic high point near Clitheroe offering stunning views, Bronze Age rock art, and links to the Pendle Witch Trials.
Memorial Park
6.8 km
A peaceful green haven in Great Harwood blending remembrance, vibrant gardens, and active sports facilities.
Bowland Wild Boar Park
7.8 km
Explore wildlife, adventure, and family fun in the scenic Forest of Bowland at Bowland Wild Boar Park.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
8.4 km
Experience Lancashire’s beloved working farm with hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and farm-made ice cream for all ages.
Little Town Farm Shop
9.6 km
A charming family-run farm shop near Preston offering fresh local meats, artisan dairy, baked goods, and a cozy tea room in a peaceful countryside setting.
Sawley Abbey
10.2 km
Explore the serene ruins of Sawley Abbey, a historical landmark in Clitheroe, perfect for history lovers and serene nature retreats.
Pendle Hill
10.3 km
Explore Pendle Hill’s legendary landscapes, rich history, and breathtaking views in the heart of Lancashire’s countryside.
Essential places to dine
Artisan Ribble Valley
4.3 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
4.3 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
The Bonny Inn
6.7 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
7.4 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Angels Restaurant
7.5 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
The Cellar Restaurant
10.2 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Bertram's Restaurant
13.9 km
Sophisticated adult-only dining with creative British cuisine, cocktails, and stunning countryside views near Burnley.
The Italian Orchard
17.1 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
Restaurant Metamorphica
18.0 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
The Broughton Inn
18.3 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
Walled Garden Restaurant
18.8 km
A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
The Pickled Goose
18.9 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
18.9 km
A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
19.4 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
Pipers
22.0 km
Experience traditional English cuisine with modern flair in the heart of Garstang’s historic High Street at Pipers Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quirky Gifts
11.6 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Witches Galore
11.9 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
14.8 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
19.1 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
19.2 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
The Mill Shop
20.3 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
20.4 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
The Old Rock Home & Gifts Shop
20.8 km
A charming village boutique offering unique gifts, homewares, and clothing with warm local hospitality in Trawden, Lancashire.
THE FOSSIL STORE
21.9 km
A unique design studio and shop in the Forest of Bowland, transforming rare fossils into bespoke art and jewellery.
Dream
22.0 km
Distinctive gifts in the heart of Lancashire's historic market town.
The Hive
22.0 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
Mood Gifts & Home
25.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
C&K
27.1 km
A charming independent lifestyle store and café in Settle’s Market Place, blending boutique shopping with local flavors and welcoming ambiance.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
29.0 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the historic Bygone Times at Eccleston, where every piece tells a story of style and sustainability.
Bygone Times
29.0 km
Discover Bygone Times, an antique paradise in Eccleston, Chorley, brimming with vintage treasures waiting to be unearthed.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Wine and Cocktail Bar and Thai at the Kings
4.2 km
A chic cocktail bar and authentic Thai restaurant in Clitheroe offering fresh flavors, elegant ambiance, and warm hospitality.
Ribchester Arms
6.3 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
The Stage Door
10.3 km
A cozy, rustic bar and restaurant in Longridge offering expertly crafted cocktails, stone-baked pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for relaxed and lively nights.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
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Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
The Plough Grimsargh
12.7 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Stags Head
14.5 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub blending traditional British fare with warm hospitality in the heart of Goosnargh village.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
18.8 km
Experience Preston’s vibrant late-night scene with live DJs, affordable drinks, and an energetic club atmosphere at Blitz Venue & Nightclub.
Guild Ale House
18.9 km
Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
Hogarths
18.9 km
Historic Victorian gin palace in Preston city centre, famed for its vast gin selection, lively sports atmosphere, and vibrant community spirit.
Winedown
18.9 km
Discover Winedown, Preston’s cozy underground wine bar with exceptional wines, artisan cheese boards, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Baluga Bar & Club
19.0 km
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Revolution Preston
19.1 km
A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Black Horse
19.1 km
Historic Black Horse Pub in Preston offers award-winning real ales, classic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Plau Gin & Beer House
19.2 km
A vibrant multi-venue bar in Preston offering craft beers, cocktails, Spanish tapas, and a unique traditional atmosphere.
Plug & Taps
19.2 km
Discover Preston’s craft beer gem at Plug & Taps, a cozy micro pub blending modern vibes with a vibrant community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
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Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
The Redroom Burnley
15.0 km
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The Warehouse
18.9 km
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Popworld - Preston
18.9 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Switch Nightclub
19.0 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Park Hall Nightclub
28.6 km
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Level Nightclub
30.1 km
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Underground
33.4 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Pure Nightclub
35.7 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Ibiza Nightclub
35.8 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Club underground
39.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Funny Girls
39.5 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
The Tache Rock Club
39.7 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Trilogy Nightclub
39.7 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
Sanuk Nightclub
39.7 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
