Review: Gibbon Bridge Hotel is a charming oasis in the North of England, ideal for families.

If you heard the news this morning, there's going to be an awful lot of attention on Preston in the coming months, with BBC Radio 2 Live in the Park heading there this September! As you'll be hearing on air, Preston is a magnificent part of the country and well worth visiting at any time of the year (not just 7th and 8th Sept!)....

As the bank holidays and half terms come around, like you, we felt like it was time to get away. With two children and a small dog in our family, we often prefer a staycation and so in the most recent holidays, we set about finding a place that would meet all of our needs.

This time around, we didn't really want anywhere for self-catering, we felt like we really needed a rest and therefore a hotel would be more suited to our needs. After some research as to what the North of England had to offer, we came across Gibbon Bridge Hotel.

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Lancashire hills, Gibbon Bridge Hotel is truly a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape. My family and I descended in and it exceeded all our expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and we'll certainly be returning.

From the moment we arrived, everything felt chilled. The very friendly and helpful receptionist gave us plenty of useful information. Our accommodation was brilliant. With thirty uniquely designed bedrooms, including spacious suites, Gibbon Bridge Hotel ensures every guest experiences a stay tailored to perfection. The personal touch in the design and furnishings added an extra layer of warmth and individuality, making us feel truly at home. We loved the split-level room, in fact the kid's first reaction was a huge "wow!". It meant they were able to relax upstairs whilst we put our feet up with the dog watching downstairs. We used the tea and coffee facilities and took some time to what us parents never do... stop. The rain was lashing down at this point, and it just made the place feel even more cosy and relaxed.

Dining at Gibbon Bridge is an experience in itself. The restaurant is superb. Nestled amidst the verdant surroundings, it offers a culinary journey showcasing the finest local produce, which for us, made it feel very special. From freshly baked bread to decadent desserts, every bite was a testament to the hotel's commitment to excellence. Whether enjoying a leisurely meal in the Conservatory or savoring a pre-dinner drink on the garden terrace, every moment was a gastronomic delight and the restaurant was a cut above similar places we have been to. We must also credit the incredibly helpful bar staff, who took the time to ask us about our hopes for our stay and wrote us out a whole list of recommended places to visit.