The village of Downham in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies at the foot of Pendle Hill, close to the thriving market town of Clitheroe. It is often hailed as the most beautiful village in Lancashire, with unrivalled views unspoilt by overhead wires, satellite dishes, roadside signage and TV aerials.
The Assheton family is responsible for the village and surrounding well-managed estate. The manor has been in the family’s ownership since 1558 and has passed through a direct male line of the Asshetons since 1680.
This small but thriving community offers the visitor an acclaimed gastro pub with rooms – the Assheton Arms - a lovely tearoom at Greendale View on the way into Downham from Chatburn and, in Summer and clement weather, a friendly ice cream shop near the village’s car park and village green.
The well-equipped village hall is an ideal venue for parties and celebrations while the Church extends a warm welcome to all and the availability of the Estate camping barn for overnight stays adds to Downham’s appeal.
The village has a car park, small information centre and lavatory block in the centre of the village. Downham welcomes visitors, but the village’s small size is such that coaches with more than 30 seats will not be able to park or unload in the village. Please contact the village hall bookings secretary to arrange reasonably priced coach parking at the village hall.