Staying at The Cartford Inn places you squarely in one of the most rewarding pockets of the country: surrounded by countryside, close to the coast, and within easy reach of some of the North West’s most distinctive spots.
One of the great pleasures of staying with us is how easy it is to step out and explore the Lancashire countryside. From riverside paths and canal towpaths to coastal routes and gentle circular walks, there is no shortage of rewarding places to stretch your legs.
Start right from the inn. Cross the toll bridge, stroll through quiet country lanes past farms, and loop into the village of Great Eccleston — a solid excuse for a stop at the bakery, deli, or the weekly market (Wednesdays).
A short, steep walk with sweeping views of the Forest of Bowland and the coast beyond. You’ll find a small tarn at the top, and often a wind strong enough to clear your head. Start in Scorton village (30 minutes away) and finish with a coffee at The Apple Store Café.
Park up in Knott End (15 minutes away) and head along the sea wall for bracing views across Morecambe Bay.
Woodland walks, sculpture trails, and views across Lancashire. Ideal for families or anyone who enjoys a varied, easy-to-navigate route.
Our nearest village, a few minutes away. Proper butchers, a popular bakery, a monthly Farmers’ Market, and a good example of Lancashire’s down-to-earth charm.
The UK’s first Fairtrade town and a nice place for a potter. Canal-side walks, independent shops, and a solid ice cream parlour. Around 25 minutes away.
Worth the drive (about 45 minutes) for cobbled streets, independent shops, and the famed Ruskin’s View. Feels like a postcard town that’s never tried too hard.
More genteel than Blackpool, with a wide promenade, smart shops, and a windmill on the green. A good option for a relaxed day by the sea.
Yes, really. Rollercoasters, the Tower, or just people-watching on the prom. Blackpool remains one of the most bizarrely brilliant places in the UK. Don’t overthink it — just go.
There is plenty to explore beyond good food and a comfortable bed. From historic halls and working castles to maritime corners and quieter nature reserves, these nearby spots make for easy outings with a little character, a little history, and enough interest to fill an afternoon nicely.
Samlesbury Hall is a beautiful half-timbered manor with a slightly spooky edge. It’s free to visit, hosts regular exhibitions and events, and makes for an easy half-day out at around 35 minutes from the inn.
For something a little quieter, Fleetwood Museum & Ferry Port has an oddly comforting, faded charm. Wander the old docks, explore the maritime museum, or take the ferry across to Knott End and back.
Brockholes Nature Reserve offers a gentler pace altogether. A floating visitor centre, bird hides and long boardwalks threading through wetlands make it easy to lose a few hours. About 35 minutes away.
And then there’s Lancaster Castle, still very much a working Crown Court. The tours cover witches, prisoners and the darker edges of legal history, and it’s well worth the 40-minute drive.
The Lake District is about an hour’s drive away, with all the hikes, lakes, and cake shops you could want. Keswick, Ambleside, and Grasmere are all good bets for a day trip.
Need recommendations or taxi numbers? Just ask.
Our team has been just about everywhere worth going around here — and quite a few places that aren’t. We’re happy to point you in the right direction.
