Enchanting Fairy Bridge and Timeless Village Offer Magical UK Escape
Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Lancashire's Ribble Valley lies a magical destination that seems plucked from the pages of a storybook. The enchanting Fairy Bridge, also known as Saddle Bridge, offers visitors a unique glimpse into local folklore and historical charm, while the nearby village of Bashall Eaves provides a picturesque setting that feels frozen in time. This captivating area should undoubtedly be added to your UK travel itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.
The Legendary Fairy Bridge: A Tale of Myth and Mystery
Steeped in captivating folklore, the Fairy Bridge is said to have been constructed overnight by fairies, according to local legend. The story tells of an elderly woodcutter who angered a coven of witches by felling the tree where they met. In a benevolent act, the fairies reportedly built this stone crossing to help him escape their wrath, creating a lasting monument to mythical intervention.
This Grade II Listed structure dates back to the 17th century and sits approximately 130 metres north east of Rugglesmire Farmhouse, another historic Grade II Listed building from the same period. The bridge itself was reportedly restored in 1938, as indicated by a plaque on its southern face that reads "rebuilt by public subscription 1938", adding to its historical significance.
Constructed from sandstone rubble, the bridge features a slender design with a single soaring arch and sturdy parapets crowned with boulder copings. Its architectural elegance combined with its mythical origins creates an atmosphere of wonder and mystique that enhances the picturesque landscape surrounding it.
Bashall Eaves: A Village Frozen in Time
Just a short distance from the Fairy Bridge lies the picture-perfect village of Bashall Eaves, tucked away within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This charming hamlet offers visitors unrivalled vistas of rolling countryside, complete with chocolate-box stone cottages and verdant hedgerows that create an idyllic rural setting.
The village's name originates from Old English, with Bashall meaning "hill by the brooks" and "eaves" denoting borders or edges, reflecting its location on the edge of the Forest of Bowland. Historical records show the settlement was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Baschelf, highlighting its longstanding presence in the region.
Largely a privately-owned country estate, Bashall Eaves has been held by the Worsley-Taylor family for generations. According to the 2021 census, this tiny village boasts just 174 inhabitants, maintaining its intimate, community-focused atmosphere.
Architectural Treasures and Historic Estates
Bashall Eaves is home to numerous delightful buildings and hidden treasures that showcase its rich heritage. Bashall Hall stands as a striking Georgian-style manor house with origins dating back to the 1600s, extensively remodelled in the early 18th century to create the impressive structure visible today.
Covering nearly 4,000 acres, the village also contains Browsholme Hall, regarded as one of the area's most historically significant mansions. This Grade I Listed property has served as the ancestral seat of the Parker family for more than five centuries. The family formerly held the position of Bow-bearers of Bowland, and today, Amanda Parker, who has been Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire since 2023, oversees the commercial operations of this magnificent ancestral home while residing in Bashall Eaves.
Hospitality and Natural Beauty
Among the village's highlights is The Red Pump Inn, the settlement's highly-rated and best-known pub located just a stone's throw from the village heart. This establishment serves as a gathering spot for both locals and tourists, earning rave reviews for its welcoming atmosphere and quality offerings.
One enthusiastic Tripadvisor reviewer praised the experience, stating: "What a little gem of a place this is. Friendly welcome from the owner before being shown to our really quite large bedroom with very comfy bed. The breakfast the next day was possibly one of the nicest hotel breakfasts I've had in a long time. The public rooms have a quaint old-worldy feel to them. Thoroughly recommend this place."
This countryside hamlet, nestled roughly five miles from Clitheroe, offers essential viewing for anyone eager to discover Britain's stunning natural beauty. The area provides delightful riverside walks and sweeping countryside routes that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil landscape.
The combination of the magical Fairy Bridge with its enchanting folklore and the timeless charm of Bashall Eaves creates a destination that captures the imagination and offers a genuine escape from modern life. Whether you're drawn by the mythical stories, the historical architecture, or simply the breathtaking scenery, this corner of Lancashire's Ribble Valley promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
