Nearest train station: Clitheroe
This spot on the River Ribble is a lovely paddling and swimming hotspot just outside the town of Clitheroe with the historic Edisford Bridge looming over.
The area was also highlighted by The Ribble Rivers Trust, who launched a Safe to Splash campaign in 2022 to ensure that waters are fit for bathing purposes, with the area highlighted as an important candidate to maintain Bathing Water Status.
The area is very popular for locals and visitors alike, and features a large picnic area with easy access to the waters below.
How to Get to the River Ribble at Edisford Bridge
We’ve provided detailed instructions on how to get to this lovely Lancashire wild swimming spot by various means of transport below, as well as general travel information nearby.
By car
Enter the postcode BB7 3LA into your sat nav, which will take you to the Edisford Road Car Park just over the road from the Roefield Leisure Centre.
The picnic area is just a few minutes’ walk along Edisford Road towards the river, with the bridge coming into view.
By public transport
The nearest train station here is Clitheroe, which is a well-connected town if you’re coming in from or via neighbouring larger settlements such as Preston or Blackburn.
From the train station, it’s about a 20 minute walk westward towards the River Ribble.
By bike
The Ribble Valley District is a stunning area for cycling with plenty of documented routes you can could use to make it part of your swimming day, particularly if you’re coming in via Clitheroe.
Why not start by exploring this handy map of Ribble Valley Cycle routes.
What else is nearby the River Ribble at Edisford Bridge?
The stunning Forest of Bowland is a stone’s throw away from Clitheroe and offers plenty of natural beauty to explore, with the nearby Tolkien Trail being a particular highlight.
If you follow the River Ribble southward, you’ll also reach the nearby Marles Wood, just outside the settlement of Langho, which has some great swimming opportunities.