Greystones Farm

Pick up picnic supplies and head to Witton Country Park (15 minutes’ drive), on the banks of the River Darwen. In addition to nature walks (including the circular Beamer’s Trail), the site has adventure playgrounds in the woods, and it also plays host to events such as workshops and music festivals. Have a go at skiing or snowboarding at Ski Rossendale (15 minutes): either book a taster session or, if you’re already confident on the slopes, just turn up and pretend you’re in the Alps as you ski down the hill. If you feel lazy, there are also tubing sessions. Tiffany glassware and paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries are among the items on display at Haworth Art Gallery (15 minutes). The building itself is known for its elegant Arts & Crafts stylings. For something more contemporary, head to the Singing Ringing Tree (20 minutes), a hilltop installation that’s played by the wind as it passes through its steel pipes. And where else? Historic Clitheroe Castle (half an hour) has gorgeous views of the countryside. Blackburn Cathedral (10 minutes) is a stunning spot for those interested in architecture or religious history. As for hikers (or indeed, cyclists), the Ribble Valley (half an hour) has lots of trails and spectacular scenery.