From bakeries and bike tracks, to museums, Mediterranean food and meandering walks – a visit to Barrowford will keep you busy from breakfast to bedtime. We’ve picked five things the whole family will love to see and do in this characterful and historic spot.
WITCH WAY
Pendle Heritage Centre is the perfect place to start any trip to Barrowford, not least because parking is just 50p.
The Heritage Centre has a much-loved museum that explores the story of the Pendle Witches among other things, and a picturesque 18th Century walled garden which often has plants for sale.
There’s also a gift shop and tempting cafe and ice cream shop.
You can learn more about the history of the area, pick up information about local walks, or simply relax and enjoy a hearty lunch in charming surroundings.
The bowling green, duck pond and well-equipped children’s play area of Barrowford Memorial Park are just a few strides away.
01282 677 150
SWEET TREATS
Make sure to stop off at Blondie Brownie on Sandy Lane opposite Little Feet children’s shoe shop (also well worth a visit for the kids to have their feet properly measured).
As you might guess from the name, Blondie Brownie bakes delicious cakes, blondies, brownies and everything in between in flavours from Banoffee, Biscoff and Bueno, to Malteser, Mint Aero and Mars Bar.
Blondie Brownie started as a simple hobby for friends Nat and Kayleigh, and quickly grew into a successful baking business with shops in Barnoldswick and Barrowford and a 28,000-strong Instagram following.
Thanks to the tempting in-store discounts, you’re likely to come away with a bag full of tasty treats… and you won’t regret it.
Tuesday – Saturday, 11-4pm
blondiebrownie.co.uk
MEDITERRANEAN MENU
There’s no shortage of sophisticated bars, cafes and restaurants on Barrowford’s busy high street.
Among them is 117 Bistro Bar which opened in November last year, offering a particularly friendly atmosphere and a wide range of dishes. Families are made welcome with a generous children's menu (8:30am-4pm). For the adults, there are lots of vegetarian options and a distinctive Mediterranean flavour to the menu – perhaps not surprising as owners Genevieve and Kurt Swindells previously owned the Greek restaurant next door. 117 Bistro Bar is open seven days a week for breakfasts, lunches and nibbles, and Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings too. Whether you want pancakes or steaks, coffees or kofta – there seems to be something to suit everyone, every day of the week.
117bistrobar.com
READY, SET, STROLL
There are a number of scenic walks from Barrowford, ranging from hardcore hikes to gentle strolls. Some of our favourites include the meandering stream-side route between industrial mill buildings and characterful cottages that takes you over the old packhorse bridge and out into the countryside to the Water Meetings, where Blacko Water flows into Pendle Water.
Or you could amble your way along the towpath of the Leeds Liverpool Canal, watching the narrowboats navigate the many locks on this stretch, and head for Greenwoods Farmhouse Kitchen where restorative coffees, cakes and ice creams await.
READ MORE: A walk from Barrowford to Blacko
ON YOUR BIKE!
For the more sporty types among us, Swinden Playing Fields has lots to offer - with numerous football pitches and cricket squares – it’s also home to the Stephen Burke Cycle Hub; a 1.1km road circuit and BMX pump track which are free for all to use. The cycle track and Pendle Pump Track are popular with visitors and locals alike.
The 400 metre BMX track has an inner track for beginners and a small trials bike area with obstacles for those wanting to finesse their tricks.
The BMX track is open all day every day, except for Saturday mornings when it’s used by the Pendle Panthers BMX Group. Keen young riders can find out more about joining the group (which welcomes kids from the age of 6 or 7) on the Pendle Panthers Facebook page.
