Research says that exercising in the great outdoors can be more beneficial than indoors – and it’s especially good for our mental health. After a long winter of lockdown, what better way to recharge, get out in the fresh air and explore the stunning countryside than cycling around Pendle and the surrounding areas, followed by a night of home comforts and good food in a Lavender hotel.
Cycle routes to explore
Gisburn Forest
There are three signposted cycle routes in the largest forest in Lancashire. Suitable for mountain bikes and takes from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the route you take. Find out more.
Salter Fell
This 3- to 4-hour Cross O’Greets circuit offers a beautiful way of experiencing the high moorland of the northern Bowland block. Find out more.
Grand Tour of Pendle
Explore the beauty of this peaceful area travelling through bustling market towns and heather-clad moorlands on this demanding 2.5- to 3.5-hour hill route. Find out more.
Foulridge
For a more family-friendly route, try heading north on the Leeds and Liverpool canal. You can stop along the way for refreshments and rest in Salterforth village. Find out more.
Pennine Cycle Way
Another family-friendly option, this route forms part of the National Cycle Network. It’s perfect for families and beginners with a 40km route following the towpath of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Along the way, pay a visit to Pendle Heritage Centre, discover the historic lime kiln and canal cruises at Foulridge, and the must-see lock at Greenberfield. Find out more.
The Lancashire Cycleway
If you’re looking for a real challenge, this 280-mile route is rated in the top 10 cycling rides in the country. It takes you around the edge of the Pennine Hills to experience the majestic countryside views. Find out more.
Bike rental is available in Pendle if required.
Stay with us and make the most of it
Lavender Hotels Summer of Fun means you can stay in one of our hotels on an all-inclusive break to make the most out of the great outdoors and refuel and recharge indoors. Enjoy a two-course dinner, evening drinks, bed and breakfast from £149, just £74.50 per person.
Whether you want to grab your fitness goals by the horns, get back into it or simply start on the road to exercise, our gym and leisure clubs are a great place to start.
We all have our own way of doing things. The same goes for exercise. Adding a national lockdown into the mix has seen plenty of inventive ways people keep active at home. It’s been great to see YouTube workouts along with sales of weights and at-home equipment go through the roof. But the motivation hasn’t been there for all of us, particularly if you’re working from home or stuck for space.
Now, as restriction ease and gyms are set to reopen from 12 April, it’s time to reclaim your lounge, take a break from family or housemates, and instead make use of the fantastic facilities at both the Stables Country Club and Oak Leisure Club to work wonders on your fitness. Here are some tips for getting back into it and what you can expect from our facilities:
Set your structure
No matter what your fitness goals are, gyms offer a secure structure and routine with their dedicated space to work on yourself with access to a variety of high-tech equipment from free weights and cardio-based machines to group classes. Plus, our experienced PTs are on-hand to offer any tips to on technique, helping to avoid injury or get the most out of your workout.
Gently does it
Some of you will be counting down the days for the gym to reopen, while others may feel daunted by the thought of getting back into a routine. Either way, it’s good to ease yourself into the gym and not overdo it. Start at your own pace and build-up for the best results – it will help keep that motivation in check.
Plan your workout
What are your goals? Simply to keep active and move more, lose weight and tone up or reach peak fitness? Making use of all of our facilities will help keep things varied and help you see the results you want. That doesn’t mean hopping on every machine – being consistent and sticking to your plan is key. Our PTs will help with a routine and give you a refresher on all the equipment if you need it!
Group effort
The pros of group exercise go further than simply fitness – exercising with others is also beneficial for your mental health and can help keep you motivated, especially if it forms a part of your social life. Our jam-packed timetable from aerobics to Zumba is the perfect blend of fun and fitness.
Relax and revitalise
If lockdown has taught us one thing, it’s to look after ourselves more. Both of our clubs have an indoor pool and spa facilities for you to enjoy – perfect for winding down after a workout or a long, busy day.
Book a bit of you time
We’re looking forward to welcoming you from 12 April, showing you around and getting your fitness back on track. In the meantime, take a look at all of our facilities at Stables Country Club and Oaks Leisure Club and get in touch to arrange your membership needs today.
Earlier this month we interviewed Sarah Sikorski, owner of Higher Trapp House which is part of the Lavender Hotel group to shed some light on the hospitality industry and vision for the future.
So how has the last 12 months from your point of view?
Difficult is probably the best way to describe it. I don’t think anyone would have predicted a year ago that we would be in the same position a full 12 months on. Over those 12 months its been something of a roller coaster ride of despair to optimism to dismay. The good period was obviously the summer when things were getting back to normal and we could allow most guests into the Higher Trapp is a pretty normal way. The most difficult situation has been the restrictions for weddings. The effect this is having on us but our partner business’s is dramatic. But most importantly its on the bride and groom who are constantly worrying and looking to change dates.
Have any of your staff been affected by COVID-19?
Yes, we have had a number of staff that have had it or had to isolate due to contact with individuals who have been recorded as positive. To be honest we were extremely concerned that the virus could render the hotel team inoperable and we would have to close the hotel. However, touch wood, we have not had this situation, the staff have been tremendous in observing rules inside and outside of work.
Have you kept the Higher Trapp open?
During the first lock down in March/April we did close the hotel right until early August however we have remained open since. There is still a demand for hotel accommodation from a lot of workers and the recent floods also meant we had to house a number of people. Obviously, there are clear rules on who we can and can’t allow to stay but its worth us stay open. We are providing a service to our guests and the staff that are employed are enjoying it even if the way we have to operate is a little different.
What have you had to change due to COVID-19 in the hotel?
A lot, there is now a lot less face to face contact and social distancing rules were always having to be maintained. But there have been significant changes to how we check people in, how we service their bedrooms, what we put in the room for the guest to use. From a food service point of view this has changed a lot over the year. Currently we just serve food and drink to people’s rooms however when we had the “eat out to help out” scheme we had people on waiting lists.
What are the hotels like inside?
Different, I loved being in the Higher Trapp and feeling the atmosphere of having guests mingle, chat and have fun. Currently guests pretty much go straight to their bedrooms and generally everything is delivered to their room. We have tried to maintain our standards, you can still get a full English Breakfast and a freshly cooked evening dinner due to the flexibility of our skilled team, its been great to maintain this when a lot of competitors have reduced their offering. The response from our customers has been fantastic.
What does you think 2021 holds for the Higher Trapp?
I wish I had a crystal ball. Normality is what everyone is craving and I am sure that we will be able to operate the Higher Trapp more normally during 2021. I feel restaurants will be allowed to open again, I also think we will be allowed to holiday freely within the UK. We just really want to be able to perform weddings again, as do our bride and grooms.
From a hotel perspective I expect 2021 will be very exciting for the hotel, we have some grand plans to improve the hotel and expand what we have to offer involving our restaurant, function room and bedroom space. We have also decided to come out of the Best Western franchise so that we will be completely independent from them. This involves a small name change to Higher Trapp House but we have been part of the local community for decades. Everybody locally at some point or another has been to a wedding at the Higher Trapp. We are a family within the hotel, owned by a family business and what to be more of the family with our locals and visitors.
Have you had many weddings cancel?
We have had some weddings cancel for a variety of reasons. As a business we made the decision early on that we were going to offer flexibility for all bookings. We have kept the vast majority, some got married on the maximum number of 15 or 30 but only a handful cancelled. Of those that did due to the pandemic we have offered full refunds, at the end of the day this is no ones fault.
Has this cost you a lot of money?
Of course, it has cost us some money, but we are in this for the long haul. The Higher Trapp is a well established and respected business and we wanted to keep this and build on it. A lot of the help from Ribble Valley Council and central government has been a huge help.
So you mention you are coming out of Best Western, do they not own the Higher Trapp, what significance does that bring to you?
Funnily enough everyone thinks we are owned by Best Western, for the record they have never owned the Higher Trapp and are simply a franchise that we have now chosen to not be part of. Best Western have been a good partner for us but we feel its time go out alone once more, we believe there is more value to be gained by being an independent. It really excites me that this is happening.
Have you any other plans for the Higher Trapp?
I just really want to improve on what we akready have. As I mentioned before we plan to make improvements in the restaurant, function suite and bedrooms. We have a great management team at the Higher Trapp and as we build our teams back to normal levels I hope we will be able to further improve our standards.
Do you feel the support from the government has been sufficient?
Oh, difficult question, in part yes I don’t think they have done too badly from a business point of view. The furlough scheme has been a god send for us and has avoided us having to make even greater cut backs in staffing. I think the key will be in the future. Varying industries experience of the pandemic have been very different, some have thrived whilst others have really suffered. The industries that have suffered should be looked after well beyond 2021 through continued VAT reductions, business rates reductions and even the extension of furlough for specific industries. The hospitality industry has been hit very very hard and I hope this is taken into account.
Support has also come from the staff we employ within the hotel, they have been brilliant, every one having to turn their hand to different tasks. Additionally, the support of all our customers has also been heart-warming, there is definitely I feeling of warmth towards our locals and local area as a result of the pandemic.
Do you think the hospitality industry will recover from this?
Absolutely, we will recover. Its going to take time and we are talking years and years rather than months. Once you have worked in hospitality you ll know that there is a desire to serve and please our guests. That has not gone away, we are just eager to be allowed to do it again on the same scale.
A local nature reserve alongside the river Mersey and full of wildflowers and animals. Most Sundays offer a pop-up cafe provided by local volunteers. Find out more
Spike Island
Located on the Trans Pennine Trail, this was home to the Stone Roses concert in 1990 – Just across from the Catalyst discovery centre which is an action-packed fun family day out exploring chemistry in our everyday life. Find out more
Mersey Gateway and Silver Jubilee Bridges
A bridge over the river Mersey connecting Widnes and Runcorn. Its impressive length is part of a larger project in developing the infrastructure in Merseyside Find out more
Pex Hill Quarry Nature Trail
The place to go for walking, climbing, and biking. Explore dozens of woodlands at your chosen pace. A hotspot for wildlife and family-friendly. Find out more
The Dream Sculpture
Commissioned by Ex miners and Halton council to reflect the aspirations of the local community. Standing 20 metres high, this impressive statue is a real landmark. Find out more
Stadt Moers Park
A great spot for walking, cycling and fishing. Located in Whiston and spread over 220 acres of land, the park is open all year round. Find out more
Clock Face Country Park
Spanning 57 acres on the site of a former colliery. There are many woodlands and footpaths to follow. It’s a fabulous place to walk dogs and take an easy stroll on flat ground. Find out more
Norton Priory Gardens and Museum
Dating back as far as the 12th century, remains can be seen from an abbey complex. Its 18th-century country house is open as a museum. With surrounding gardens and woodlands for walks and regular events through the year, this is an idyllic spot to visit with the family. Find out more
Walton Hall and Gardens
A country house and grade two listed building based in Walton. There are acres of ground to explore and a cafe. The Hall opens its groups to outdoor theatre and festivals. Find out more
Manchester Ship Canal
An impressive 36 miles long, this canal links Manchester to the Irish Sea through Merseyside. Still used today for supply chain cargos, this canal dates back to the 18th century. Find out more
Ramsbottom lies right in the middle of the Irwell Sculpture Trail. The trail is the largest public art scheme in England with 70 art pieces that follow an established 30-mile footpath from Salford Quays and finishes just above Bacup. From the Old Mill Hotel head south and follow the trail. The North Trail is an 8.4-mile route from Ramsbottom, through to Irwell Vale, Rawtenstall, Stacksteads and Bacup. The South Trail totals 14.2 miles as you walk from Ramsbottom to Burrs Country Park and then on to Bury, Close Park, Radcliffe, Whitefield, Outwood Country Park, Clifton Country Park, Chapel Street, Ordsall Hall (Salford) and finally to Salford Quays. In Ramsbottom, artwork pieces include ‘Tilted Vase’ located in the town centre and ‘The River’, an 88m stainless steel path inscribed with poems. Find out more
Peel Tower
Sitting proudly on Holcombe Hill, Peel Tower is a monument named after Bury’s most famous son – former Prime Minister and founder of the Metropolitan Police founder Sir Robert Peel. Starting at the Old Mill climb Holcombe Hill to reach Peel Tower. The walk offers a 3-mile round trip and once at the tower, provides stunning views across the Irwell Valley to Manchester. Find out more
Burrs Country Park
The park is a beautiful place to visit the ideal spot for riverside walks, fishing or nature watching. For the more adventurous outdoor activities including kayaking, climbing and raft building are all available at Burrs Activity Centre (pre-booking usually required). Views of the well-known East Lancs Railway steam trains are easy to come by from this spot. Find out more
Nuttall Park
Lots to do with playgrounds, tennis courts, and bowling greens. A stunning location to visit with regular annual events and a tea room. Find out more
Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary
Bleakholt is one of the largest sanctuaries inthe UK, home to over 450 animals. Established by a local woman from Ramsbottom. Time your visit with one of their family fun days, or pop into the shop and café during your family-friendly visit. Find out more
Turton Tower
Dating as far back as Pre-Christian times. Turton Tower offers a wonderful family-friendly day out. Facilities onsite include a gift shop, Victorian tea cafe, and a children’s outdoor play area. Find out more
Turton and Entwistle Reservoir
A well-known local trail around two reservoirs next to the village of Edgeworth. Find out more
Musbury Tor
Standing at 340 Meters, this flat-topped hill is recommended to walkers visiting the area. Referred to as “The Tor” by locals, it provides stunning must-see views on a clear day. Find out more
Jumbles Reservoir
An easy flat and circular walk of up to about one hr. Not far from Entwistle and Turton Reservoirs. Find out more
Calf Hey Reservoir
A 3.5km circular walk based near the green town of Haslindgen. Popular for hikers and trail runners. Find out more
Hail Storm Hill
Located at the highest point in Rossendale, Hail Storm Hill is also known as Cowpe Moss. This climb takes around two hours and stands around 600m high. Find out more
Whalley Abbey showcases beautifully kept gardens and the intriguing ruins of a 14th century Cistercian Abbey. Take a guided tour of the ruins or explore the woodland beside the River Calder. The attraction also features Cloisters coffee shop for refreshments and a gift shop that sells tickets to the grounds and other souvenirs from your visit. Find out more
Gawthorpe Hall and Gardens (National Trust)
Steeped in history a visit to Gawthorpe Hall and Gardens will transport you to era from our illustrious industrial past. Built between 1600 and 1605 Gawthorpe Hall was the family seat of the Shuttleworth family for over 300 years. In 1850 the house was redesigned by Sir Charles who also redesigned Highclere Castle (filming location for Downton Abbey). Inside the house, you will find period rooms on display from the remodelling as well as original plasterwork ceilings, panelling and the impressive Long Gallery. Also on display are over 200 pieces from the nationally important Gawthorpe Textile collection. Don’t forget to visit Tea Room some snacks and refreshments. Outside take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens with views of the river and a ramble through the woodland to enjoy the wildlife. Find out more
The Singing Ringing Tree
Burnley’s Panopticon, ‘Singing Ringing Tree’, is a unique musical sculpture which overlooks Burnley from its position high above the town on Crown Point. Constructed from pipes of galvanised steel stacked in layers, this Panopticon takes the form of a tree bending to the winds and harnesses the energy of those winds to produce a low, tuneful song. It’s close to the Dunnockshaw Millennium Wood, part of the Forest of Burnley reforestation programme, and links to the Pennine Bridleway and local walking routes. Find out more
Pendle Hill
A walk up Pendle Hill offers the perfect opportunity to experience some of the UK’s most breathtaking scenery. The walk starts from the picturesque village of Barley and is approximately 8km to the top and is a great route for walkers of all abilities. Not only for the views, but the Witches of Pendle also offers a fascinating historical story. Find out more
Pendle Sculpture Trail
A trail steeped in local history and a tribute to the people of Pendle who lost their lives in the biggest witchcraft trail over 400 years ago. The Pendle Sculpture Trail is a collection of ten unique ceramics each representing a person who was found guilty and hanged. The plaques are also presented in a treasure trail style quiz to be hunted down and found! There is also stunning artwork from Philippe Handford, including the tumbling tree arches. Find out more
Hardcastle Crags woodland walk
Owned by the National Trust, Hardcastle Crags is a wooded Pennine valley located in nearby quaint town of Hebden Bridge. A diverse area of deep rocky ravines, tumbling streams, oak, beech and pine woods plus upland meadows; Hardcastle Crags is a wonderful place to spend the day exploring. Visitors can also recharge the batteries at the Weaving Shed Cafe whi serve a range of ethical and locally-produced food or buy a souvenir from the gift shop located there. Find out more
Bowland Wild Boar Park
Located in the heart of the Ribble Valley, Bowland Wild Boar and Animal Park is 65 acres of fun for the whole family. Visitors can see a wide range of animals, explore their habitats and even meet and hold some of the smaller animals. There are some walking trails for visitors to enjoy, a large play area and a popular cafe serving delicious food! Find out more
Top Withens
A ruined farmhouse near Haworth said to have been the inspiration for the location of the Earnshaw family house Wuthering Heights in the 1847 novel of the same name by Emily Bronte. Located in the middle of ‘Bronte country’, there are many trails to walk across miles of moorland. Find out more
Clitheroe Castle
Standing high on Castle Hill, Clitheroe Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 800 years! In more recent times, the castle now serves as a museum and tells the story of Clitheroe, and explains the formation of the land 350 million years ago and the local people. Clitheroe Castle Museum makes a great day out for the whole family. Find out more
Stocks Reservoir
Located near Slaidburn, the trail around Stocks Reservoir is a 10.8km loop and provides a moderate walk. If you’re feeling energetic attempt the whole circuit or there is a series of short walks to enjoy. There is also a good range of facilities for visitors, including a large car park, cafe and toilets. Find out more
Burnley’s largest park is set in 180 acres landscaped parkland which surrounds the impressive Townley Hall and Museum. Offering exhibitions, woodland walks, sculpture trails, organic community garden, play areas, sport pitches, two golf courses, ornamental gardens, café and gift shop a trip to Townley Park is a great day out for all the family. Find out more
The Singing Ringing Tree
Burnley’s Panopticon, ‘Singing Ringing Tree’, is a unique musical sculpture which overlooks Burnley from its position high above the town on Crown Point. Constructed from pipes of galvanised steel stacked in layers, this Panopticon takes the form of a tree bending to the winds and harnesses the energy of those winds to produce a low, tuneful song. It’s close to the Dunnockshaw Millennium Wood, part of the Forest of Burnley reforestation programme, and links to the Pennine Bridleway and local walking routes. Find out more
Gawthorpe Hall and Gardens (National Trust)
Steeped in history a visit to Gawthorpe Hall and Gardens will transport you to era from our illustrious industrial past. Built between 1600 and 1605, Gawthorpe Hall was the family seat of the Shuttleworth family for over 300 years. In 1850 the house was redesigned by Sir Charles who also redesigned Highclere Castle (filming location for Downton Abbey). Inside the house, you will find period rooms on display from the remodelling as well as original plasterwork ceilings, panelling and the impressive Long Gallery. Also on display are over 200 pieces from the nationally important Gawthorpe Textile collection. Don’t forget to visit the Tea Room for snacks and refreshments. Outside, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens with views of the river and a ramble through the woodland to enjoy the wildlife. Find out more
Leeds and Liverpool Canal
For those who want to combine a good walk while appreciating a piece of local history, the Burnley section of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is a perfect destination. Known as ‘The Straight Mile’ and regarded as one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the British Canal system’ the impressive engineering feat the embankment carries the canal 60ft above Burnley. Find out more
Thompson Park
Thompson Park is Burnley’s most ornamental park where visitors can spend the afternoon appreciating a large number of well-kept flowers beds and a large rose garden. As a formal Edwardian urban park it retains its original features like a boating lake, Italian gardens Ranger centre and a playground. Find out more
Pendle Hill
A walk up Pendle Hill offers the perfect opportunity to experience some of the UK’s most breathtaking scenery. The walk starts from the picturesque village of Barley and is approximately 8 km to the top and is a great route for walkers of all abilities. Not only are the views does Pendle offer a fantastic walk but the Witches of Pendle offers a fascinating historical story. Find out more
Hurstwood Reservoir
Pack up a picnic and head out to Hurstwood Reservoir for a great walk combined with wonderful views. Starting from the public car park in the village of Hurstwood, this circular walk is a great trail for people of all abilities and is sure to blow the cobwebs away while appreciating the best of the Lancashire Countryside! Find out more
Pendle Sculpture Trail
A trail steeped in local history and a tribute to the people of Pendle who lost their lives in the biggest witchcraft trail over 400 years ago. The Pendle Sculpture Trail is a collection of ten unique ceramics each representing a person who was found guilty and hanged. The plaques are also presented in a treasure trail style quiz to be hunted down and found! There is also stunning artwork from Philippe Handford, including the tumbling tree arches. Find out more
Boulsworth Hill
Another fantastic opportunity to experience some of the best countryside in the UK! This large expanse of moorland in the south pennies provides an exhilarating, energetic ramble with breathtaking views. Find out more
Take in the changing seasons and pay a visit to Lancashire’s marvellous woodland…
Beacon Fell, Goosnargh
Not just woodland, Beacon Fell Country Park covers almost 192 acres in total including moorland and farmland. Extremely rich in wildlife, it’ll be hard not to spot rabbits, deer, stoats and weasels enjoying the autumn habitat. In the warmer months, you’ll be in awe at the various dragonflies and damselflies dancing around the ponds. It’s practical too, with a car park, toilets and picnic areas.
Perhaps the ultimate Lancashire woodland walk, The Forest of Bowland is well-known for its dense woods, with firm roots since which have been around since before the 1600s. There’s plenty to explore with over 200 hectares of upland oak and mixed ash woodland habitat, situated within the valleys of the rivers Hindburn, Roeburn, Ribble and Hodder. Keep your eyes out for badgers, foxes various bats, and a rich mix of birds of prey.
For those eager to learn, the Wyre Estuary Country Park has a woodland and geology explorers trail, perfect for discovering local wildlife and native trees. And, not just for walking, there’s also the opportunity to ride bikes or enjoy a horse ride.
Bike rides are a great way to spend some quality family time together – and Lancashire is the perfect place to explore some stunning landscapes. Older children will love the freedom of pedalling off any excess energy, while little ones will enjoy the adventure – and you get to take in the beautiful Lancashire landscape to boot. Here are some of the best routes near our North West hotels…
Pendle & Colne
Explore the Pennine Cycleway along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, taking signs from Colne Train Station to Foulridge Wharf. This section mainly follows a towpath, so it’s reasonably flat – perfect for families. The ground is good in all seasons, making it suitable for little and big wheels alike. What’s more, there’s so much to see along the way!
Nelson & Burnley
One for mums and dads with older children, take the 20km round trip along the Pennine Cycleway from Victoria Park to Townley Park via Nelson and Burnley. Perfect for families on their own bikes – avoid this route if you have trailers, tagalongs, or trail-gators; the barriers along the way will be challenging to navigate.
Padiham to Burnley
Take in the stunning scenic Calder Valley with the Padiham to Burnley cycle route via Ightenhill. Although quiet, children will need to be confident cycling on the roads, but this route is also great for the trailers and tagalongs.
Burnley Heritage Cycle Trails
As well as the obvious exercise benefits, the Sustrans Burnley Heritage Cycle Trails are super family-friendly and educational as you can discover Burnley’s rich and varied history. This popular route links local attractions with a lot of variation taking converted former railway lines, canal towpaths and woodland trails, as well as short sections of quiet roads.
Extend your quality family time and make a weekend of it – relax in one of our hotels ideally located to enjoy the Lancashire countryside. Click here for details and to find your perfect spot.
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