Lancashire & The Pendle Witch Trials

Itinerary

Description

The Pendle Witch Trials of the 17^th century was one of the darkest chapters in English history, where nearly a dozen men and women were wrongly condemned for the practice of witchcraft. On this five-day getaway, we discover the key locations and atmospheric landscapes of Lancashire that provide the backdrop for this landmark event. We also take in some of the region’s most enjoyable highlights such as Bury Market and Oswaldtwistle Mills as well as a cruise on the Lancaster Canal to complete this excellent break that’s perfect for all who like to get up close with history.

Itinerary

Included Excursions

Lancaster Canal Cruise (full day)

We enjoy some free time in Lancaster, exploring the city’s many shops and cafés, the secret paths of Williamson Park or the Edwardian butterfly house. The city is also home to Lancaster Castle where the Pendle Witch Trials took place in 1612 and which still has a tower known as the ‘witches tower’ where the accused were imprisoned. From here we experience the scenic beauty of Lancaster and enjoy a cruise along the canal.

Samlesbury Hall & Bury Market (full day)

We travel to the striking Samlesbury Hall, a distinctive black-and-white, timber-framed house which dates back to the early 14^th century. This stately home features prominently in the area’s folklore as three women were arrested for witchcraft here and stood trial alongside the Pendle Witches. Here we enjoy a guided tour around the peaceful grounds and many grand rooms, including the gallery room and the archive room which records the history of the property through the centuries.

Later we travel to the charming town of Bury, renowned for its fantastic 500-year-old market. One of Britain’s finest traditional markets, it boasts over 350 stalls offering a wide range of products – perfect for shoppers and bargain hunters!

Pendle Witch Country & Oswaldtwistle Mills (full day)

The highlight of our break, we enjoy a guided coach tour of Pendle Witch Country taking in the historical locations that played a role in the story of the trials. Our guide brings 1612 to vivid life as we travel to the villages of Roughlee and Barley, where we learn the tragic tale of Alice Nutter, Elizabeth Southerns and Anne Whittle, who were accused, condemned and executed during the trials. We also visit St Mary’s Church in Newchurch, former home of the Demdike family, which is notable for the unique “Eye of God” sculpted into the wall of its tower. The church is also said to hold the grave of Alice Nutter somewhere in its grounds.

From here we travel by coach to Oswaldtwistle Mills for some time to explore at leisure. With over 100 retailers, this shopping village is packed full of whimsical gift shops, textile emporiums, quaint tea rooms, cheese delis and Ye Olde Sausage Shop.

Search Bullets

• 4 nights at the Legacy Preston International Hotel, Preston (JG3+ rating) with dinner & breakfast
• Excursions to Lancaster, Samlesbury Hall, Bury Market & Oswaldtwistle Mills
• Guided coach tour of Pendle Witch Country

Coach Bullets

• Return coach travel
• 4 nights at the Legacy Preston International Hotel, Preston (JG3+ rating) with dinner & breakfast
• Excursions to Lancaster, Samlesbury Hall, Bury Market & Oswaldtwistle Mills
• Guided coach tour of Pendle Witch Country
• Lancaster Canal Cruise

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JG3

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

Accommodation

Legacy Preston International Hotel (JG3+ rating)

The Legacy Preston Hotel is a comfortable, modern hotel. It features a lounge bar, restaurant, fitness centre and en-suite rooms, all of which include a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee-making facilities.