Clitheroe has been named among the best places to live in the UK by lifestyle publication Muddy Stilettos, with the guide hailing the Ribble Valley town's thriving independent businesses, food scene, countryside location and strong sense of community.
The town features in Muddy Stilettos' latest Top 260 Places to Live guide, which describes Clitheroe as "the kind of place where you pop out for milk and end up chatting with the butcher, baker, and candlestick maker".
Praising the town's location in the heart of the Ribble Valley, the publication said: "No wonder it's been named as one of the healthiest and happiest places to live in the UK.
"You'll find walkers, foodies, and Instagrammers alike getting misty-eyed over the sunsets here."
The guide highlights Clitheroe Castle, which overlooks the town from its prominent hilltop position, as well as the area's close links to Pendle Hill and the surrounding countryside.
Muddy Stilettos said: "With more independent shops and delis than you can shake a baguette at, Clitheroe is the place for your artisan coffee and sourdough fix, without the big city chaos."
Among the venues singled out were Exchange Coffee Company, The Emporium and Holmes Mill, while nearby Michelin-starred Northcote and Michelin Green Star restaurant Eight at Gazegill were also praised.
The publication said residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink, describing Holmes Mill as a destination that "has it all: craft beer, a food hall, and its very own gin distillery".
On shopping, the guide highlighted Clitheroe's independent retailers, including D Byrne Wine, Cowman's Famous Sausage Shop and Valley Living, as well as the town's historic market.
It said: "Clitheroe is all about that warm, fuzzy sense of community. From local markets to town festivals, there's always something happening."
Events including the Clitheroe Food Festival and Ribble Valley Jazz Festival were credited with helping maintain the town's community spirit, while regular farmers' markets and craft fairs ensure residents are "never short of a friendly face (or a delicious pie)".
The guide also praised the area's outdoor lifestyle opportunities, recommending walks up Pendle Hill and trips to Edisford Bridge, as well as leisure facilities including Roefield Leisure Centre and Three Breaths Pilates studio.
For culture lovers, Muddy Stilettos pointed to The Grand and Everyman Cinema at Holmes Mill, adding: "Culture in Clitheroe? Oh yes!"
The publication also highlighted Clitheroe's heritage, describing the castle as "the jewel in Clitheroe's crown" and noting the area's links to the Pendle Witch Trials.
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On property, the guide said the average house price in Clitheroe is £249,428, with terraced homes selling for an average of £183,219, semi-detached properties £269,892 and detached homes £381,595.
The article concludes that Clitheroe offers an attractive balance for commuters looking for a rural lifestyle while retaining access to major cities, noting that direct rail services to Manchester Victoria take around 75 to 80 minutes.
Readers can view the full list of the UK's top 260 places to live on the Muddy Stilettos website.
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