Under An Hour From Blackpool Is England's Historic Village With Family Fun And Roman Ruins

An English village can provide a fairy-tale escape and the opportunity to immerse yourself in pastoral landscapes, as well as the past. Plus, there are countless villages that are within easy reach of major destinations like Blackpool. Ribchester, for example, is about a 40-minute drive away from this renowned coastal town and promises adventure for the entire family. Nestled in the Ribble Valley on the River Ribble, much of the village is lined with storybook-style homes with exposed-brick facades. Many of Ribchester's structures were constructed hundreds of years ago, including St Wilfrid's Church. It features impressive stonework and, per the Ribchester Parish Council, dates back to the 12th century.

However, this Lancashire village's history goes back even further than this. What is now Ribchester was once Bremetennacum Veteranorum, a Roman fort established for military purposes in 72 AD. The site (once found at St Wilfrid's current location) and the surrounding area subsequently thrived with merchants and other amenities. Although Roman occupation ended in the 5th century, Ribchester still boasts tangible traces of this settlement that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Bring along the kids and explore the ruins of the stone granaries that once sustained the fort. Uncovered in 1908, only stones among greenery remain. 

The same goes for the nearby ruins of Ribchester's Roman bathhouse. "There are a couple of information boards to tell you about the site, which different parts of the bath house are visible and about the excavation and the artifacts that were found," explained a reviewer on Google. Dating back to 100 AD, Lancashire County Council describes it as a place where Romans (both men and women) relaxed and socialized. With hot and cold plunges, it was not unlike a modern spa.

Spending time at the ruins is only one part of the Ribchester experience. Housed in a structure that resembles a stately cottage, the Ribchester Roman Museum is within walking distance of both the granaries and the bathhouse (the former, in fact, is mere feet away). This attraction opened in 1915 and will enthrall those who are eager to learn more about the significance of Ribchester's Roman fort and ruins. An assortment of relics found in and around the village are on display here. These include weapons, remnants of shoes, pottery, and other historical items. Reviewers on Google describe the Ribchester Roman Museum as underrated and say that despite its small size, it packs a punch, especially for the price. 

Admission is 4 pounds for adults of dollars, and there is no charge for kids who are five and under. Affordability aside, reviewers on Google write that the Ribchester Roman Museum provides an entertaining and educational experience for little ones. One individual revealed, "Lots of activities for the children to do from trying on roman clothing to making Roman jewellery." They added, "We spent 3 hours and the kids (7 and 4) were never bored." 

The Ribchester Roman Museum is open daily, though be sure to check its website for its seasonal hours and scheduled closures. Ribchester, however, is not the only destination in Lancashire with a similar past. Located about 30 minutes away from Ribchester is Kirkham, an underrated market town near Blackpool with Roman roots, local markets, and tasty restaurants. 

Families will find that the Ribchester Roman Museum is far from the only kid-friendly space in the village. Just around the corner from this attraction is Ribchester Playground. If exploring the ruins and the Ribchester Roman Museum doesn't tire your little ones out, perhaps climbing the walls and zooming down the slides of this rustic-style structure will. Do your kiddos love arts and crafts? If so, they can paint their own creation at Potters Barn. Described by a Tripadvisor user as "A lovely quirky cafe," Potters Barn doubles as an eatery, with soup, sandwiches, and a children's menu with similar bites. You can dine here without painting, allowing families to enjoy the visually striking ambiance (think a cottage with a rainbow aesthetic) or garden seating. 

The White Bull, an elegant 18th-century pub, also has a dedicated kid's menu, a detail that is appreciated by reviewers on Google. In the summer, this establishment is known to offer guests one free meal for children under 12, making a visit to Ribchester even more budget-friendly for families (note that booking reservations for The White Bull is recommended).

Given that some of Ribchester's activities are centered on the outdoors, planning a summer outing allows visitors to take advantage of the comfortable weather. From June to September, highs are typically in the 60s. Moreover, nearby Blackpool is considered to have one of England's best piers for ocean views and seaside fun. This is the perfect excuse for a summer getaway to Lancashire and Airbnb has spacious cottages for the occasion. Besides, there are other day trips from Blackpool for coastal English adventures that are also a stone's throw away from Ribchester.