Harley Young soaks up the sun in beautiful stately surroundings
A short ten minute drive from Clitheroe train station stands the grand-looking country hotel Gibbon Bridge - a popular wedding destination and city escape with a rich history for many.
Owner Janet Simpson and her family took over the tenancy at Gibbon Bridge in the 60s back when it was a farm before purchasing the buildings and a portion of its surrounding land. Janet and the groundskeepers have worked hard to create a tranquil and picturesque garden space that has guests returning, some even choosing to spend their big day at Gibbon Bridge.
Harley Young spends 24 hours at the hotel, sampling its dinner menu and exploring its grounds.
Checking in
Arriving at Gibbon Bridge, Dave and I were greeted with a very warm welcome from a member of the reception team. The reception area itself looks rather grand with its wood burning stove, chapel-esque archways (I later found out these were salvaged from the St Michaels and All Angels at Bastwell church in Blackburn when it was being demolished) and expensive-looking flocked wallpaper. Down the hall and through the arch, we could hear the quiet hum of classical music and guests chatting as they enjoyed their dinner.
Following a swift check-in process, we found our room for the evening.
The room
We were situated in a large double room to the left of the building, above the restaurant and overlooking the gardens.
The room was a little dated but was clean and had plenty of character whilst being stocked with everything you need for an overnight stay; tea and coffee station, toiletries, Wi-Fi access and plenty of plug sockets plus all the other usuals you’d expect.
The bathroom was decked out in a neutral white with a large whirlpool bath (big enough for two) and overhead shower.
The weather was absolutely glorious so we unloaded our belongings and headed straight out onto the grounds to explore.
The grounds
The approach to Gibbon Bridge hotel is surrounded by farmers fields and greenery, which is beautiful and tranquil enough in itself, but the grounds are something else. Here, everything looks fresh out of a picture book.
The grass is the richest shade of green and is mowed into straight lines. Its perimeter is leafy and every hedge and flower bed is meticulously well kept. At the bottom of the lawn there’s a gorgeous white pagoda - at the time it was set up ready for a summer of weddings and showcases making picturing your big day here a dream come true.
Wind further through the gardens and you’ll stumble upon a series of outdoor private dining areas that can be hired for special occasions during the summer months. The garden furniture, water features and ornamentals are tastefully placed. It’s a space that’s been curated with peace and tranquillity in mind and I happily spent many an hour whiling away the afternoon into the evening watching as butterflies danced over the fish pond.
Dinner time
After a couple of elderflower tonics and a few hours of basking in the garden, we headed to our room and freshened up ready for dinner. A short walk downstairs and we arrived at the restaurant, a bright and airy space with quirky wallpaper and elegantly laid tables.
We were served some freshly baked bread and butter (made onsite, at the bakery next door) while we mulled over the menu. Dave decided on a starter and main, while I opted for a main and dessert (giving in to my sweet tooth).
For Dave’s starter, he ordered the three scallops on cauliflower puree. This dish was presented in a lovely manner and had a generous helping of crispy bacon atop, drenched in truffle oil. Not one to normally choose a fishy starter from a menu, Dave said he enjoyed it although the truffle distracted from the delicate nature of the perfectly seared scallops a little.
Time for mains. Dave was on the duck breast (cooked pink) served with stir fried leeks and dauphinoise potatoes with a pomegranate dressing. The duck was moist, succulent and mopped up the pomegranate dressing nicely. He polished it off.
I decided on a lighter sounding dish due to my current fitness kick, opting for sous vide chicken breast stuffed with spinach and roasted red pepper, served with new potatoes, broccoli and a watercress sauce - a healthy and satisfying main that made me feel far less guilty about ordering the fresh blackcurrant and apple pie with ice cream to share with Dave for dessert.
The pie was just the ticket to satisfy my sweet tooth and was served piping hot. Being impatient, I went to town with my spoon, heaping ice cream over the top to save myself from a burnt tongue - even if I’d gotten one it would have been worth it for this, though.
We concluded our evening by soaking up the final bit of sun in the garden before retiring to bed.
Rise and shine
Following a restful night’s sleep we headed down to the restaurant for breakfast. Cooked breakfast and continental options were both available, served buffet style so you can help yourself. I chose the homemade granola with yoghurt and fresh berries - a nice combination of textures with flavours both tart and tweet. Dave helped himself to a cooked breakfast with all the trimmings. Both set us up for the day nicely.
Before we left for home, we met with hotel manager Chris who kindly gave us a tour of the areas we hadn’t seen during our stay, including the gorgeous indoor wedding ceremony area and large bridal suites.
We also got to take a sneak peek at one of the rooms that had been modernised. Chris told us that the aim is to eventually transform each of the rooms into a similar style whilst still retaining their own individual characteristics.
The Verdict
Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant is a pretty location for a weekend retreat and the team are wonderfully attentive. We enjoyed making the most of nature, leaving our phones on silent and taking a walk through the gardens at leisure - a juxtaposition from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city centre living.
If you’re looking for somewhere to switch off, but not a million miles away from home, give Gibbon Bridge a try.
The Scores
15.5/20
Sleep quality 4/5
Slept well and had no disturbance.
Dinner & Breakfast 4/5
Well presented and of good variety.
Service 4/5
Friendly, knowledgeable and attentive.
Facilities 3.5/5
A spacious, well equipped room which, when modernised, will be even better.
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