Picturesque Lancashire hamlet is tiny paradise for foodies | UK | Travel

For such a diminutive hamlet, this spectacular Lancashire village punches well above its weight. Located approximately three miles from the thriving market town of Clitheroe, this charming village is enveloped by stunning countryside vistas across Lancashire’s renowned Ribble Valley, creating the sensation of wandering onto a cinematic landscape.

Its remarkable location deserves particular mention – positioned where two significant Lancashire waterways meet: the River Ribble and River Hodder. Indeed, the village derives its name from Old English, referring to its position at the « mythe », meaning « confluence » or « junction » of two watercourses. Great Mitton and its neighbouring village (technically a civil parish) Little Mitton, occupy fewer than 2,000 acres within the Forest of Bowland, establishing it as the Forest’s smallest township.

Magnificent riverside panoramas, undulating rural landscapes, and exceptional award-winning cuisine, there’s everything to adore about this idyllic hamlet.

Things to do in Mitton

Housed within a magnificently restored 19th-century structure, The Three Fishes now operates as a farm-to-fork restaurant at Great Mitton’s core and has been described as « outstanding » by guests who have visited the venue.

Led by Michelin-starred chef Nigel Haworth, The Three Fishes has accumulated numerous awards throughout the years and maintains an impressive 4.4 rating out of five on Tripadvisor.

Patrons consistently praise the establishment’s cuisine and hospitality. So impressive is the standard, it has secured its position on the Michelin Guide restaurant list since 2022, with assessors deeming it « worthy of a place ».

One Tripadvisor review of The Three Fishes says: « Everything about this place is total perfection. Everything. The staff, the service, the atmosphere, the surrounding area, the layout. And, of course, the food is as good as anything I’ve ever experienced. Difficult to imagine how this place could be improved. »

Another jewel in Mitton’s crown, restored through meticulous renovation, is the magnificent 15th-century manor house, Mitton Hall, positioned majestically beside the River Ribble at the centre of Little Mitton.

It serves dual purposes as both a sought-after wedding venue and country house hotel, offering sumptuous accommodation in the scenic Ribble Valley, cherished equally by residents and tourists.

Remaining in Little Mitton, there’s the celebrated Aspinall Arms, greeting guests with a roaring fire during colder months and a glistening riverside terrace garden throughout summer – ideal for enjoying a beverage alongside superb contemporary dishes drawing inspiration from British staples alongside various « exotic global influences ».

The 19th-century coaching inn commands views of the beloved All Hallows Church and Mitton Hall, attracting ramblers, cyclists and canine companions.

A delighted guest said of Aspinall Arms: « We’ve been to the Aspinall Arms twice now, both times following a hike in the Ribble Valley. The first visit we just had drinks, but were really impressed with the pub and its outdoor area. Immaculately maintained, the beer garden is substantial in size and offers some beautiful river views!

« On our second visit, we again intended just to pop in for a riverside view drink in the sunshine, but having perused the menu decided to have a meal. Considering we only popped in for a drink, we ended up spending three hours in the Aspinall Arms and had a great time. »

Another prominent attraction within the small hamlet of Great Mitton is All Hallows Church, formerly called the Church of St Michael. Constructed during the 13th century, it underwent significant modifications and extensions throughout the 15th and 16th centuries.

All Hallows Church contains the burial sites of the renowned Shireburne of Stonyhurst family and has held Grade I listed designation from English Heritage since 1954. It also boasts the magnificent Shireburn Chapel and merits a visit.

A Grade II Listed medieval bridge, Edisford Bridge, represents another essential sight in Mitton. Constructed from sandstone and incorporating four arches with cutwaters, Edisford Bridge has earned recognition as a scheduled monument.

Another bridge, which is also a scheduled monument, is the Grade II listed Old Bridge, dating back to 1562. Now disused, it’s constructed from sandstone and spans the River Hodder.

The Mitton Bridge is another captivating point of interest, likely hailing from the 19th century and similarly crafted from sandstone with a Grade II listing.

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