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ENJOY A STROLL AROUND THIS GORGEOUS VILLAGE AND STOP OFF AT A PUB OR CAFE ALONG THE WAY 09:52, 01 Jun 2025 Across Lancashire are picturesque villages in all forms and sizes. Some are found
along the coast, like Heysham, which overlooks Morcecambe Bay. Others are nestled deep in the Forest of Bowland, such as Slaidburn. Then there’s Downham, a place that’s frozen in time with
no TV aerials, satellite dishes or road signs. One of Lancashire’s more hidden villages is Croston, which lies halfway between Chorley and Southport, less than an hour’s drive from
Manchester. This charming village is like stepping back in time with cobblestone streets lined with red-brick terraces and quaint cottages topped with thatched roofs. Flowing through the
village is the River Yarrow, crossed by a 15th century packhorse bridge, and on the edge of the village stands the grade II-listed St Michael and All Angels Church. Article continues below
Several streets in Croston are renowned for their old buildings. Church Street is said to have one of the best-preserved rows of 17th century cottages in Lancashire and it could easily be a
film set. In Drinkhouses Lane you’ll also find several three-storey weavers cottages dating back to the 18th century. In the spring and summer months Croston bursts with colour as beautiful
flower displays spring up across the village and it has won numerous awards over the years for its horticultural efforts, including a gold award in Britain in Bloom North West in 2022.
What’s so special about Croston is it’s the perfect place for a relaxed wander on a summer’s day. It’s small enough to explore on foot, but with several cafes and pubs to visit and keep you
busy. The village has three pubs: The Wheatsheaf, which overlooks the village green; The Lord Nelson, which claims to be Croston’s oldest pub, with some parts dating back to 1640; and The
Black Horse in the heart of the village. Beside the river is Thyme On The Yarrow, a small cafe serving sandwiches, soups, sweet treats and more, using produce from local suppliers. One
reviewer on Google described it as a “little gem” with “Wonderful, inventive food options, great coffee and a really friendly atmosphere.” Article continues below On the edge of the village
is Twin Lakes Velo Cafe, located next to two fishing lakes. It has both inside and outside tables, perfect for when the sun comes out and it’s a popular spot for cyclists in the area. A
visitor on Google described it as “one of the best cafes I have been to for quite some time.” FOR MORE OF THE LATEST WHAT'S ON NEWS, CLICK HERE.