Gibbon Bridge Hotel

Gambolling....

2012-02-17T02:31:00.002-08:00

The gambolling lambs are out and about in the Forest of Bowland. Spring is definitely springing with green shoots, lots of snowdrops and the trees budding. Let's hope the cold weather forecasted doesn't stop them all in their tracks! So why not enjoy a trip out into the Ribble Valley this weekend and treat yourself to lunch at Gibbon Bridge?

Romance....

2012-02-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

Romance has been in the air at GB over the last few days. We had a romantic weekend, which included quite a few potential wedding couples coming to view the hotel for their big day resulting in lots of bookings. Our romantic Saturday evening went well and then yesterday, Valentine's Day, we had a very busy lunch and dinner service. All this goes to prove that romance is not dead and GENTLEMEN you excelled yourselves in making sure you had a table booked and something organised for the big day.

So what's next on the calendar? Whatever it is - whether it be an anniversary, a birthday or mother's day Gibbon Bridge is the place to be for it so get out your diary and check out our website for all our latest offers, events or speak to us about how we can personalise your special occasion.

Mmmmm.... Sunday Lunch

2012-02-11T01:28:00.000-08:00

This time of year can make you feel a bit blue especially with all the economic news as well - what better way to make yourself feel better than a spot of lunch, especially somewhere where you will feel spoilt with good food, luxurious surroundings, wonderful views and professionals looking after you? Our fabulous three course lunches at only £23.00 per person won't upset the bank manager either! So go on treat yourselves - give us a call and book for lunch this Sunday.....

An afternoon with a difference...

2012-02-10T03:18:00.000-08:00

Don't forget our musical afternoon teas start again next Tuesday - 14th February - there will be a romantic theme to the afternoon at it is a special day! You can make it even more special by having a glass of champagne as well - an afternoon with a difference...

Let us be your Valentine....

2012-02-08T03:00:00.000-08:00

Not got anything sorted for Valentine's yet? Well how about an overnight stay this Saturday at Gibbon Bridge? We have a four course gourmet dinner on offer, a gibbon bridge teddy bear, live piano music and of course bed & breakfast - prices start from £240 per couple so amaze and surprise the one you love with a night away.

Or if you are looking for something a little bit different for the day itself why book in for our Romantic Musical Afternoon Tea....

E-Newsletter...

2012-02-03T02:28:00.000-08:00

Our e-newsletter should be hitting your IN BOX with all our latest information and offers so do take a look..... we'd love to tempt you out to Gibbon Bridge.... It may be cold out here but everything is certainly looking fantastic - worth a visit!

Floral Workshop....

2012-02-01T01:28:00.000-08:00

We have another floral workshop organised for Monday 26th March - just before Easter. They are huge fun and are suited to all abilities. The day starts with morning coffee which is followed by a demonstration by Anne & Grace. Then it is your turn only interrupted by a delicious lunch and glass of champagne! We provide everything you need to make the arrangement including oasis, wire, scissors, flowers, tape, greenery.... all you have to do is turn up.

This is a great day out with friends or would be a great present for mum (Mother's Day Sunday 18th March)....

For more information on this and all our other events why not download our latest Newsletter from our website?

Beautiful Bowland

2012-01-28T05:32:00.000-08:00

What a glorious day! The sun is shining and the fells are dusted with frost and everything is looking wonderful - a great day to be coming to stay and enjoying our Champagne Saturday.

Don't worry - if you are not booked in for tonight - we have other dates available..... check out the website. Or why not treat yourself to Sunday lunch tomorrow? Give us a call to book at table 01995 61456

Early Valentines....

2012-01-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

January is flying by and we are nearly into February. Why not beat the winter blues with a short break or have you got yourself organised for Valentine's day yet? We have a very special offer on the Saturday leading up to the 14th Feb - a special four course dinner, romantic piano music, and a gibbon bridge teddy..... If you want to do something a little bit different on the day itself we have a romantic musical afternoon tea or you could always treat the one you love to lunch, dinner or a night away.

Short Breaks from £75 per person, per night

2012-01-23T03:23:00.000-08:00

We are offering our best value break at the moment at £75 per person, per night and includes dinner, bed and breakfast. You do need to stay two nights though but... it can also include a Saturday evening if you wish. For further information, contact reception of visit our website site www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk

2012-01-20T05:33:00.000-08:00

For those of you who visit us regularly will have noted we were closed at the beginning of January to take time out to do our annual maintenance, painting and decorating. We hope you all like the results. With all the work complete we have opened this week and delighted to see so many of you back through our doors. We have some great offers available this year, so if you are looking for shortbreak don't forget to take a look at our website http://www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk/ for great value.

Last weekend....

2012-01-17T05:49:00.000-08:00

we had our wedding open days. We were blessed with two beautiful crisp winter days and we had a great turn out with both prospective couples and those who have already booked. It was good to see everyone and we were able to show off the recently refurbished conservatory, our new restaurant chair covers and some examples of what we are now able to offer in the way of flowers and cakes.

We also had John Hornby, The Flower Shop, Creative Chair Covers, and Eau Zone day spa here.

If you weren't able to make it don't worry just give us a call to arrange an appointment to view....

Wedding Show....

2012-01-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

Don't forget we have our wedding open days this weekend..... Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th January. We are open between 10 am - 2 pm for prospective couples and if you have already got a wedding booked between 2 pm - 4pm.

So if you are planning a wedding come and take a look!

Christmas....New Year...

2011-12-30T04:14:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

We hope you have had a very happy christmas... we have been busy here and having a wonderful festive time. Yesterday we had a fabulous wedding - it might have been wet & windy outside but no one noticed as everyone was having such a great time. The couple who got married had actually met here at a wedding several years ago - that's romantic isn't it?

We are now looking forward to New Year's Eve - the dance floor is down, the chef's are busy the wine cellar has been re-stocked!

Janet and the team would like to thank you all for your support and custom over the year and wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Santa's been calling...

2011-12-22T08:30:00.001-08:00

We were very lucky to have Santa stop off on his way to Greenland yesterday.... he joined us for afternoon tea and was able to say hello to all the boys and girls who had come to join us.

The Bakery Girls had made some wonderful snowmen for tea!

We are so lucky to have just received a visit from Santa Claus! He was able to say hello to all the girls and boys who had joined us for afternoon tea today....... he dropped off some presents and had a quick cup of tea and a snowman....

Winter Wedding...

2011-12-20T05:29:00.000-08:00

We had an amazing winter wedding here yesterday in the Orangery. The room looked absolutely fabulous and to top it off Santa's sleigh arrived with his reindeers - just in time for photos!

More Photos from the Workshop.....

2011-12-10T02:11:00.001-08:00

One of the brilliant things about these events is that even though everyone has watched the same demonstration and in theory are making the "same thing" - everyone's is unique! It might be a different colour scheme or use of different items (apples, cinnammon sticks, bows...) - but they are all individual and of course they all looked fabulous!

Ann & Grace had a great time too - they really enjoy meeting everyone and seeing how well everyone does.

Feedback was really positive and people are already booking for our next workshop on MONDAY 26TH MARCH - just in time for Easter! Would make a great present for someone....

Christmas Wreath Workshop

2011-12-09T07:39:00.000-08:00

Another successful floral workshop with some wonderful results.....

more pictures to follow.....

Musical Afternoon Teas

2011-12-07T04:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas is well and truly underway here at Gibbon Bridge -

Monday's Ball for No Reason - hit the mark and lots of fun was had by all

Today is the first of our musical afternoon teas. Don't forget we have put on an extra date - Tuesday 20th December - as the other dates have been so popular. So if you aren't booked in yet - make sure you give us a call soon.

More Christmas Decorations...

2011-12-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

Janet has gone all out this year with the decorations in the Orangery - they have to be seen.... The blog photographer has tried to take some snaps but they do not do the decorations, or Grace & Ann, justice! You will just have to book for lunch or dinner (or afternoon tea - we have an extra date on Tuesday 20th December) to come and see for yourself!

Deck the Bridge...

2011-12-02T04:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming at Gibbon Bridge.....

the Orangery is looking amazing..... certainly worth a visit to see all our wonderful decorations.

Count Down to Christmas......

2011-12-01T02:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas lunches start today and we are now counting down to the big day itself with various events and activities on the way. The Christmas decorations are now up and the hotel is looking very festive - definately worth a trip out to see. So if you are thinking of meeting up with friends for lunch, attending a party night or dinning one evening don't forget to give us a call and get the date in the diary.

PS Our Festive Musical Afternoon Teas have been so popular that we have added an extra date TUESDAY 20th DECEMBER 2011... so if you don't want to be disappointed make sure you book your place...

Christmas in the Bakery....

2011-11-29T01:31:00.001-08:00

With Christmas Day now only four weeks away the build up to the big day has really started. Walking past the Bakery at Gibbon Bridge at the moment is even more tempting than normal with the wonderful smells that are filling the air - christmas smells of cakes and puddings and mince pies..... So why don't you let us tempt you to some goodies from our Bakery - ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN on 01995 61456

Wet & Wild...

2011-11-26T01:59:00.000-08:00

It is a real Winnie the Pooh day in the Forest of Bowland - blustery & wild! So it is time to cosy up in front of the fire and where better than Gibbon Bridge? Why not treat your home chef to Sunday lunch out.....

Or if you want to go really mad why not book onto one of our Champagne Saturdays? We have extended the dates right through into the New Year - the end of February in fact - so you can enjoy a romantic night away, 1/2 bottle of champers in your room, and dinner to the sounds of the pianist.

BALL FOR NO REASON AT ALL...

2011-11-25T01:44:00.000-08:00

Still a few places left on our Ball for No Reason on Monday 5th December.... so if you are fed up with all the doom and gloom on the news and want to party why not dust off your dancing shoes and come along? At only £30 per person it is fabulous value and will kick start your Christmas in style! You can even take advantage of our accommodation rate of only £100 per double room bed & breakfast.

50/50 November...

2011-11-18T01:44:00.000-08:00

For those who haven't seen our latest e-newsletter we are running 50/50 Monday to Friday throughout November. What does this mean? It means you can come and stay any night from Monday to Friday for £50 per person per night bed & breakfast with a complimentary upgrade......

Christmas Afternoon Tea

2011-11-15T05:04:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Afternoon Teas are extremely popular and indeed the 7th December is already full so if you are thinking of coming you need to book soon!

50/50 - FIFTY FIFTY FRIDAYS

2011-11-05T02:56:00.000-07:00

We now have some late availability rooms on Friday 25th November, Friday 2nd December and Friday 16th December at £50 per person for bed & breakfast based on two sharing and subject to availability - so don't delay book today to avoid disappointment!

Seven weeks to go....

2011-11-03T03:28:00.000-07:00

Only seven weeks until christmas! Time to start thinking about shopping and fun; although we realise most males would never put shopping & fun in the same sentence. If you want to make life easier why not think about a Gibbon Bridge gift voucher? We offer bespoke gift vouchers or you can put your own package together or just tell us how much you want to spend. For more information give us a call or visit the website

Oh what a Bowland Morning!

2011-10-28T01:24:00.000-07:00

A beautiful day here in the Forest of Bowland - a little bit on the chilly side - but glorious sunshine and colours. If you are not doing anything today we would suggest you give us a call, book a table for lunch and get out and enjoy the day!

Driving over Jeffrey Hill this morning a flock(?) of magpies were seen - at least 15 of them - is it a flock? What is the term for a lot of magpies..... anyone know?

Trick or Treat?

2011-10-26T02:01:00.000-07:00

With Halloween only five days away why not trick yourself into treating yourself at Gibbon Bridge? Our new menus are now up and running and surely you deserve a treat before the hustle and bustle of Christmas! If you want to go completely made why not join us for a Winter Weekend Wonder Break this weekend?

Volkswagon Car Launch

2011-10-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

The last 24 hours have seen us hosting a "Ride & Drive" car launch

with 12 very clean and shiny different VWs parked on the car park and a hotel full of journalists staying (but didn't spot Mr. Clarkson, Mr. May or Mr. Hammond and certainly didn't hear them!)

The journos were able to test drive the cars on the Bowland

Roads and of course we fed and watered them in between with good food & wine. We certainly enjoyed having everyone here and goes without saying that the cars were admired!

Lancashire Business View

2011-10-21T07:02:00.001-07:00

We were delighted that the Lancashire Business View's Women's Networking Group chose Gibbon Bridge to host their first event here yesterday afternoon in the Orangery. A number of prominent professional business women from around the county met and enjoyed afternoon tea, a short talk and the opportunity to meet each other and connect.

New Menus.....

2011-10-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

Autumn sees a change to our menus...... Janet and Gary have been trying
out new recipes and Janet is always particularly keen to include
seasonal game. The new menus will be available from Wednesday
so book yourself in for lunch and try them out for yourself!

Weekend....

2011-10-13T01:50:00.000-07:00

The sun is supposed to be coming out to play this weekend.... so why not make the most of it and book a night or two away? We have our Weekend Wonder breaks available for the weekend so go on treat yourselves - you know you deserve it!

Its a whopper!

2011-10-12T02:58:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin season is upon us and the Gibbon Bridge garden is producing some pretty impressive ones.... they've even got their own faces!

Any suggestions for a name?

Lancashire Best Kept Village Competition 2011

2011-10-11T02:09:00.000-07:00

Another year has flown by and yesterday saw the Lancashire Best Kept Village Awards Ceremony return to Gibbon Bridge....

There were 93 entries into the competition and 145 people attended yesterday for the award ceremony. The Rt Revd Geoffrey Pearson, the Bishop of Lancaster, presented the prizes to the winners. The winner of the Champion Village was Blacko and West Bradford was the runner up.

As always a huge amount of effort goes into all the enteries and then into the judging so CONGRATULATIONS to everyone and all the communities who took part and of course to the winners.

Fruity florists!

2011-10-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

Our GB florists, Ann and Grace, have excelled themselves today with their autumnal flower arrangement - sunflowers & crab apples.... take a look or even better why not visit us for lunch and see it at first hand!

PS But please ring first just to check that we're not full.

Get away from it all....

2011-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

It is time to take advantage of our two night weekend breaks...... available on 8th & 9th, 15th & 16th and 29th & 30th October and into November on 12th & 13th and 26th & 27th.... The rates include dinner, bed & breakfast for two nights and are based on two people sharing. A great opportunity for some time away enjoying some nice walks, good food and beautiful countryside.

Wedding....

2011-10-01T03:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's bride & groom, Kathryn and Ian, had a fantastic day for their wedding here at GB. The sun shone and everyone was able to enjoy being outside - the bride looked gorgeous and the happy couple really were happy!

Last Bandstand Wedding...

2011-09-30T04:23:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day you can legally get married outside in the Bandstand here at Gibbon Bridge and what a beautiful day it is. Everyone here is busy getting the bandstand and the gardens ready; grass is being cut, red carpets hoovered. The hanging baskets are still looking good, and there is that wonderful summer haze in the air.

The Sun is Shining...

2011-09-28T03:38:00.000-07:00

Everything is looking fabulous here in the Forest of Bowland! The autumn colours are glowing and here at Gibbon Bridge we are getting ready for our last civil ceremony in the bandstand until next April. It looks like the sun will be shining...

Our guests this week have been able to enjoy coffee and drinks on the terrace as well as the autumnal colours - its not too late for an autumn break - check out our special offers on our website.

Gibbon Bridge Fly Pass

2011-09-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

The weather held for yesterday's bride & groom who got married in the bandstand and at the end of the ceremony the groom had arranged for a fly pass...
as demonstrated in these images.

It was wonderful to watch as the planes dipped & dived - our lunch guests had their own special air show!

Autumn....

2011-09-21T01:07:00.000-07:00

Autumn has arrived and we are busy harvesting the crab apples, blackberries, damsons, spinach, courgettes and the beans. All find their way to the table either as fresh veg or in desserts or pickles or preserves.

The autumn colours are beginning to show around and about in the Forest of Bowland and when the sun comes out, and it does more than you think!, everything has that wonderful hazy autumn glow - today is one of those days.

Wet & Wild!

2011-09-13T02:54:00.001-07:00

Autumn seems to have moved in very quickly this year and it certainly has been wet & wild up here in the Forest of Bowland - the sun does keep making an appearance though so it isn't all bad and the autumn colours are beginning to creep through the trees.

Our seasonal three day break is back on the menu so why not think about taking advantage of a few days away - the price has remained at £399 for three nights dinner, bed & breakfast for two - still excellent value!

Asian Banquet....

2011-09-10T05:12:00.000-07:00

Don't forget next Sunday, 18th September, we have our Asian Banquet and Champagne Beer night! Richard Baker from the Bowland Brewery will be joining us to talk us through his new Champagne Beer - Artisan Gold -his latest invention (having sampled some we can highly recommend it!) and of course you will get to taste it too..... To accompany this we are putting on an asian banquet - a complete mix of all our favourite dishes from the Asian continent including such delights as Tempura Prawns, Lamb Balti & Sushi.

Only £35.00 per person and if you stay the night we are offering a double room at £100 for bed & breakfast.....

Autumn/Winter Newsletters....

2011-09-08T02:39:00.001-07:00

Stand by your letterboxes..... the Gibbon Bridge Autumn/Winter newsletter is in the post so look out for your copy soon! If you are not already on our mailing list and would like a copy please give us a call 01995 61456 and we will pop one in the post for you.

The newsletter has all our autumn offers on including Events, Dinners, Afternoon Teas, seasonal breaks and of course - CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR! All the information can also be found on our website so please take a look we are sure you will find something to suit you.

Autumn Breaks...

2011-08-31T02:30:00.000-07:00

Is today officially the last day of summer? If it is it must be time to start thinking of autumn walks, kicking leaves and roaring log fires..... and of course a little bit of early christmas shopping (only 4 months away....) and where better to do all that than here at Gibbon Bridge!

Our three day seasonal break starts again this week and Backridge Barn; a local rural retail destination which has some very exclusive shops, is offering our guests a discount - for more information please visit our website.

The Sun is Shining.....

2011-08-25T01:46:00.001-07:00

The sun is shining over Gibbon Bridge this morning - let's hope it stays for the bank holiday weekend. It is the Chipping Show as well this weekend and Janet will be there and may even be judging - full report next week!

Don't forget we do have a fantastic late availability offer on for Sunday & Monday, 28/29th, £170 per couple for dinner, bed & breakfast (1 nights), £300 per couple for dinner, bed & breakfast (2 nights)... so if you haven't anything planned why not take a trip out to see us?

August Bank Holiday....

2011-08-23T04:57:00.000-07:00

We seem to be running out of summer and this weekend is the Bank Holiday so let's hope the sun shines so that we can make the most of the last few days of August. We are open for lunch on Sunday and still have some rooms available on Sunday & Monday nights so if you fancy a night away or getting out into the countryside give us a call - 01995 61456.

LATE AVAILABILITY....August

2011-08-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

We have a late availability offer on our bedrooms for the night of Sunday 28th August (Bank Holiday weekend) owing to a cancellation so why not check your diary and make the most of the weekend by getting away for a night or two or three!

Stay the Sunday night and get dinner, bed & breakfast for £170 per room (based on two sharing) or stay Monday night as well and pay £300 for a double room, dinner, bed & breakfast. We will do our best to offer you an upgrade as well...

We are also offering our three night break at £399 for three nights dinner, bed & breakfast (again based on two sharing) if you book from the Sunday night.

These are excellent value so make the most of the last of the summer sun and the last Bank Holiday until Christmas by having a night away........................

Longridge Fell....

2011-08-17T02:45:00.000-07:00

The heather on the fells is just turning purple and looking beautiful..... definately worth a drive out to see before it fades away!

Don't forget to check out our new website, if you haven't already. We have lots of offers and events coming up and in particular on Sunday 18th September we are having an Asian Banquet in the Orangery with all our favourite dishes from the Orient. To add a twist we have Richard from the Bowland Brewery coming along with his latest product: Artisan Gold, which is a champagne beer. It is delicious - and that is coming from someone who does not normally like or drink beer!!

BANK HOLIDAY BONUS.....

2011-08-16T02:15:00.000-07:00

Stay with us on the August Bank Holiday Monday on our mid week tariff of £85 per person dinner, bed & breakfast and enjoy a late check out at 12 midday and an upgrade to a suite - so why not treat yourselves to a night away in the beautiful Forest of Bowland?

Come rain or shine.....

2011-08-11T01:56:00.000-07:00

.....the Ribble Valley is still beautiful - whatever the weather! Where better to sit and relax and watch what's going on than from the comfort of the dining room at Gibbon Bridge? We are still offering our lunch menu at £15 for two courses and three courses at £19 - or even better why not join us for Sunday Three Course Lunch £23. Full details are on our website http://www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk

Afternoon Tea to Music

2011-08-09T00:58:00.000-07:00

Our musical afternoon teas are proving so popular that we have put on some additional dates on 12th October and 9th November. And on Wednesdays throughout December on 7th, 14th & 21st..... so why not treat someone? Full details please visit the website or contact reception.

Summer days......

2011-08-05T06:21:00.000-07:00

....are drifting away from us all - so now is the time to make the most of them! Why not take some time out for a night away or come and see us for lunch; we are still offering our two course lunch for £15 or three courses for £19 - excellent value!!

The gardens are looking fabulous at the moment and the hanging baskets and flowers are stunning. The sweet peas are in full bloom and the colours of the gladiolii in the flower garden are superb.

Get Away From It All!

2011-07-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

Not got anything planned for next week? Then why not treat yourselves to a night away at Gibbon Bridge? The Ribble Valley and the Bowland Fells are looking particularly beautiful at the moment and rumour has it the sun might shine - but don't blame us if it doesn't! We will make sure that you are looked after though, and there is always the bar to cosy up in if the weather does turn bad. Take a look at our special offers & Bowland Break on our brand new website!

Janet's Birthday!

2011-07-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

Gibbon Bridge sprang into action yesterday to celebrate Janet's 70th birthday! A wonderful party was held with a jazz band, games, bouncy castles, a birthday banquet, talking heads and a disco. Friends of Janet's gathered from all over the country to celebrate the day with her and a brilliant time was had by all.

New Website....

2011-07-22T00:57:00.000-07:00

We have also been busy working on our new look Gibbon Bridge website which is now up and running - please take a look and let us know what you think - you can do this via facebook. We have updated our social media so it is easier than ever to follow our Blog posts, Twitter feed or to follow us on Facebook. You can also subscribe to our RSS feed to receive all our special offers and events directly into your reader. In addition our new social sharing buttons allow you to tell your family, friends and colleagues about all our fabulous offers and deals by posting a link onto your choice of favourite social media tool; much easier than having to remember to tell them about what’s going on at Gibbon Bridge...

So take a look and let us know what you think!

GB Back Blogging....

2011-07-14T04:08:00.000-07:00

Hello - we hope you have been missing us! There's been a few technical problems here but we are now up and blogging again. Life at GB has been very busy lots of weddings, lots of busy lunches and al fresco parties with Janet keeping us all on our toes.

We've enjoyed meeting a lot of new guests who have discovered the hotel through the special offer we had on in the Sainsbury's magazine as well as a lot of regular and new guests who have joined us on our Great British Bowland Break which is available until the end of August.

Don't forget we are open for lunch everyday and the heather on the Bowland fells is just waiting to come out - so if you are looking for a scenic destination drive - you need to find your way to Gibbon Bridge.

Britain by Bentley Tour.....

2011-06-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday saw the arrival of some 50 Bentleys at Gibbon Bridge - the majority of which were vintage. They had set off from Keswick in the morning, arrived here for coffee and a quick lunch, and then set off for Llandudno. They came through the Forest of Bowland and were able to enjoy the fabulous scenery and windy roads! The participants, including their cars, came from far and wide, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Canada....

Blackcurrants....

2011-06-18T01:43:00.000-07:00

The kitchen gardens are proving fruitful at the moment..... lots of blackcurrants which are being used for desserts and being made into preserves, gooseberries, blueberries, salad leaves, radish, watercress, herbs.... Book in for lunch, tea or dinner and try them for yourself!

Britain by Bentley Tour 2011

2011-06-17T03:51:00.000-07:00

The Britain by Bentley Tour will be stopping off at lunch time tomorrow to enjoy lunch on their way to Llandudno. Many of them are friends Janet has made on previous trips, and in particular the Bentley Over the Top Tour of Australia. There will be between 40-50 fabulous vintage cars here from all over the world..... Live Ribble Valley will be here to cover it so make sure you get next month's copy.

The 31-day tour started on 4th June with a Gala Ball at The Savoy and ends at Leeds Castle having taken in England, Scotland and Wales.

Fantastic Food Shows....

2011-06-14T06:49:00.000-07:00

It was great to see so many of you at Ewood Park at the weekend at Nigel Haworth's fantastic food show and a big thank you to all of you who entered our prize draw..... we will be notifying the winner very shortly and, of course, notifying you too!

If you enjoyed this last event - or if you missed it - put Saturday 13th August in your diary - for the Clitheroe Food Festival, showcasing the best of Ribble Valley and Lancashire food and drink producers. This family focused event will include a country market, live cookery demonstrations by local and top named chefs, children’s food oriented activities, historical displays, entertainment and much more. Followed on in the evening by Clitheroe Castle's Last Night of the Proms event, giving you even more reasons to take a short break in this stunning area.

50/50 Friday 10th June....

2011-06-04T02:18:00.000-07:00

Stay with us on Friday 10th June and enjoy a 50/50 Friday - you only pay £50 per person bed & breakfast; based on two sharing - book quickly enough and you will get a free upgrade to a suite!

Golden Celebrations....

2011-06-02T02:14:00.000-07:00

A wonderful Golden Wedding anniversary party was held at Gibbon Bridge yesterday with lots of friends enjoying a leisurely lunch with the happy couple. The celebration was held in the Orangery and the afternoon finished with the pianist playing some appropriate tunes.....

Today we are busy with a small intimate wedding; so we are certainly hoping that the day is going to be the hottest of the year as promised by some of the weather forecasters. We have a number of guests staying who are enjoying our Great British Bowland Break and the good news is they have been able to enjoy their pimms on the terrace!

Chipping Steam Fair Winner!

2011-05-31T08:00:00.001-07:00

Janet with the winning owner of this full working steam engine - what a fantastic beast!

The Weekend

2011-05-31T01:30:00.000-07:00

Its been a busy weekend with weddings at Gibbon Bridge and the weather held off for all three ceremonies to take place in the bandstand. Janet was busy at the Chipping Steam Fair and took part in the judging - watch this space later in the day for some photos!

Hanging Baskets....

2011-05-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

Summer must be here as the hanging baskets have just been put out! They still have some growing to do but we are looking forward to another year of Gibbon Bridge in bloom - just need a little bit of sunshine now!

Chipping Steam Fair

2011-05-26T04:43:00.000-07:00

Chipping is getting ready for the Steam Fair this weekend. Janet loves attending and most year's helps judge - often Best in Show. It is a great day out for families with lots of fabulous engines, cars, tractors - all sorts and of course stalls, stands, entertainment and fun.

The Wine Diva at Gibbon Bridge

2011-05-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

Whilst Janet was travelling in South Africa earlier this year she visited the Bilton Vineyard and met the Biltons. She was able to taste their fabulous wines and she invited them to visit Gibbon Bridge. Mark Bilton and Margi Hoffe, The Export Manager for the Company, have recently been in the UK for the London Wine Fair and were able to take time out to visit us before their return to Stellenbosch. Janet hosted a private dinner for them where she was able to showcase some of their very special wines with some wonderful food..... (Janet with Margi, Mark and her friend Roger Firth)

(Bilton Wines being overseen by Edward)

Marriage....

2011-05-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

Today's wedding has got some great touches; homemade jam with the recipe for a good marriage on as nametags & favours..... a sweet shop..... an icecream tricycle.... a post box.... a wishing well and topiary table decorations!

Yesterday's Lunch...

2011-05-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Lancashire Life and everyone who came to the lunch yesterday! A great time was had by all; new contacts and friends were made and we were able to show off the recently refurbished Staple Oak Suite. Lancashire Life were here taking photos which will be much better than this one of ours - so check out July's magazine for theirs!

Lancashire Life

2011-05-17T02:18:00.001-07:00

Janet is delighted to be able to host a lunch today in association with Lancashire Life Magazine. The menu has been put together by Janet and our head chef, Gary, and showcases the excellence of the local produce we use together with Gary's excellent skills as a chef. Adrian Patterson from Tanners Wines is attending and has chosen the wines to accompany the lunch....
..... more info and photos to follow.......

Weather permitting....

2011-05-14T05:42:00.000-07:00

We are certainly having all all the seasons in one day at the moment. We are keeping our fingers crossed that today's wedding will take place in the Bandstand but it is very blustery at the moment and we have had some quite heavy rain - but the sun is out now so fingers crossed....

The gardens have certainly benefitted from this week's rain and Howard has spotted a cuckoo.

Musical Afternoon Tea....

2011-05-12T06:09:00.000-07:00

The first of our summer musical afternoon teas took place yesterday and was "delightful"! Don't forget we have more coming up over the summer on the following Wednesdays: 20th July, 3rd August and 14th September - booking is required.

Purple Weddings.....

2011-05-10T02:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend's weddings colour themes were very similar..... purpley/mauves set off with some deep pinks - gorgeous girls, gorgeous colours...

The rain had to come but we all know the gardens need it, and everything is looking very green and refreshed.

Beautiful sunshine at Gibbon Bridge

2011-05-08T06:22:00.000-07:00

Just coming to the end of a busy Sunday lunch and we have a blue sky and sunshine! Perhaps some of our guests after all, will enjoy their coffee in the gardens overlooking Longridge Fell. For more details about Sunday Lunch at Gibbon Bridge click here.

Afternoon Tea to Music...

2011-05-07T05:09:00.000-07:00

Don't forget we start our new afternoon tea to music events on Wednesday 11th May between 3.30 pm and 5.00 pm. Sam Hampson, a young local pianist, will be playing a selection of tunes for you whilst you take tea in the Orangery - so why not treat yourselves to an afternoon out - sandwiches, cakes, scones, cream & lemon tea and lashings of tea - what could be better?

How Green is the Ribble Valley

2011-05-06T04:28:00.000-07:00

Wow - the rain has really refreshed everything and the surrounding countryside and our gardens are looking wonderful. There is definately something about the light and freshness of the colours at this time of year......

Talking of gardens it is Friday so it must be time to keep you up-to-date on what's going on outside. Robert was recently out walking in the area and came across what he thought was a grass snake but it was in fact a slowworm ; it was dead which is probably why he saw it!

The "growy" weather means the garden is really beginning to take shape and we are waiting to take delivery of the plants for our hanging baskets which should be out and about at the end of May.... photographic evidence will be available soon.

Wedding Fever

2011-05-05T03:42:00.000-07:00

Wedding fever has certainly hit Gibbon Bridge this week! The sun has been shining and the two smaller, more intimate, weddings that have been held here so far this week have been able to enjoy drinks on the terrace and the spring garden. The trees are coming into leaf and the fresh greens of the Forest of Bowland in the sunshine are particularly beautiful.

A number of our brides to be have been contacting us via Facebook so if you want to join in the chat visit out facebook page.......

Charity Afternoon Tea Recital....

2011-05-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

The recital on Sunday raised £360 in aid of Dr. Griffin's daughter for the Bone Cancer Research Trust. The six talented musicians performing included Naomi Holland, Mary Francesca Whittle, Oscar Feeney, Joe Martin, Olivia Singleton and Sam Hampson; all students of Carrie Steingold. The young ladies sang a selection of show songs and anthems whilst the young men played various classical pieces on the piano - all to an exceptionally high standard! Afternoon tea was served and a delightful afternoon was had by all....

Sam Hampson will be returning to Gibbon Bridge throughout the summer on Wednesdays; 11th May, 20th July, 3rd August, 14th September to play the piano whilst afternoon tea is served in the Orangery. To book or find out more please call 01995 61456.

Winter Weddings in Lancashire

2011-04-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

We may be going into the spring and summer wedding season but if you have just got engaged and want to get married later this year why not consider a winter wedding here at Gibbon Bridge. Whether you are thinking of large or small we have just the setting for you. So if you are a bride searching for the very best hotel wedding venue in Preston, call us to arrange a viewing.

And any grooms looking to wow their brides should definitely check out our Orangery as the place for wedding receptions in Lancashire.

Easter News...

2011-04-26T01:49:00.000-07:00

Wow - weren't we all spoiled with the weather! Gibbon Bridge's weekend has gone in a flash with lunches, weddings and fun days! Our glamerous bunnies on the right did a fabulous job with the face painting, and everyone who came along to the Easter Monday fun day had a great time... as you can see the bunnies even made it into the kitchen!

If you are now thinking about your plans for next weekend we are open for lunch on Monday and on Sunday afternoon there is a recital with afternoon tea.... for more information give us a call 01995 61456

Bluebells....

2011-04-22T02:22:00.000-07:00

The first bluebells are out in the wildgarden here at Gibbon Bridge. It is amazing how suddenly they appear - but they are out all over the Forest of Bowland; worth a trip out to see them. The bluebell wood at Brock Bottom is always a good place to see them and, of course, you can call in for lunch or afternoon tea afterwards.

We still have some place on our Easter Monday Fun Day..... for more information just give us a call 01995 61456.

Happy Birthday Ma'am!

2011-04-21T01:32:00.000-07:00

Warmest birthday wishes go out to the Queen today who is celebrating her 85th birthday from Janet and everyone here at Gibbon Bridge. We hope you have a fabulous day - the sun is certainly shining for you here in the Forest of Bowland.

For those of you who are just about to start the Easter weekend don't forget we are open for lunch today, Good Friday & Saturday (12 o'clock sitting only). On Easter Monday we have our family fun day starting at 12.30 pm. There are still places left so if you have children or grandchildren with you why not come for lunch and let us entertain them...... there will be all sorts of games, a children's entertainer, and of course an egg or two!! For full details please give us a call or visit http://www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk/ - we would love to see you.

Janet & the Duke....

2011-04-20T03:06:00.000-07:00

Janet went down to Windsor last week for a very auspicious occasion - the Duke of Edinburgh's 90th Birthday Celebrations with the The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts' Club & the Rotary Club of Windsor & Eton. He was very impressed by the tales of her Australian trip and couldn't believe that she hadn't made it down to Windsor in the Derby Bentley after she had travelled all the way from Perth to Darwin in it - "what's the matter with you woman?!"

We know what the ducks are....!

2011-04-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Martin Mere http://www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/martin-mere & Dave we have discovered what our new guest ducks are....... they are Ruddy Shellducks - they make a lot of noise but they are very beautiful. So why not make the most of this beautiful weather and come and see for yourselves - we are open for lunch all week and would love to see you. To book please call 01995 61456.....

Picnic & pimms make for the perfect summer break at £450!

2011-04-17T04:39:00.000-07:00

Check out our new Summer break - plan ahead and book before 30th April and will give you a complimentary upgrade to a suite.

EASTER MONDAY FUN DAY!

2011-04-16T05:17:00.001-07:00

Come & join us on Easter Monday for a children's fun day - it starts with lunch and then you can relax with coffee whilst the children are entertained by their very own entertainer; there will be easter egg rolling, games and all sorts of fun - no age restricitions! To book just call 01995 61456....... £30.00 for adults/£15.00 children

Wildlife at GB

2011-04-15T03:30:00.000-07:00

Been a busy week with the arrival of the ducks, cat & kittens but the SWALLOWS arrived yesterday as well - 14th April. The lads have also been busy in the gardens and grounds and 20 new birdboxes have gone up this week - hoping to encourage a lot more blue tits & finches. Keep watching the blog for the arrival of any more interesting wildlife.

Everything in the greenhouse is continuing to grow and the patio pots with all the spring flowers are looking good too.

Kittens!

2011-04-14T01:38:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy week for new arrivals to the team, first it was ducks now we have a new mum and her three kittens..... we know you can only see mum and two kittens in the image but we promise you there are three in there somewhere!

Janet has called them

Maggie, Sooty, Sweep & Sue......

We're still waiting to hear from any tweeters out there who can identify our new ducks - please see yesterday's blog for an image.

Guest Ducks!

2011-04-13T01:01:00.000-07:00

We had some unexpected guests arrive on our pond yesterday..... some very attractive ducks but we can't identify them - can you help??

We think they are ornamental - if there is anyone out there who knows we would love to hear from you.......!

Staple Oak Suite

2011-04-12T01:44:00.000-07:00

Our recently refurbished Staple Oak Suite is looking fabulous: it has had a complete revamp and now has the most luxurious red striped wall paper, sumptuous red leather sofas, a wonderful french renaissance bed, a double whirlpool bath and a huge flat screen TV. It still has the woodburner and its own private garden so it really is the place to retreat to for that romantic weekend or special occasion..... to find out more or to book please visit our website or call us on 01995 61456.

Our last two Sundays @ £77

2011-04-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

Go on.... lace up those walking boots and take to the Forest of Bowland whilst the sun is still shining!. Better still stay a few days and take advantage of our Sunday £77 pp offer or even our 3 day break @ £399 per room. It's amazing how many of our guests tell us that they don't want to go home and just wish they could stay that little bit longer to enjoy our beautiful surroundings, or relax in the garden for one more afternoon - enjoying the view of Longridge Fell, whilst listening to the birds and sipping a chilled glass of wine.

Carry on Gardening...

2011-04-09T04:15:00.001-07:00

carrying on from yesterday just thought you might like to see a picture

of the potato chittings...... you will be eating their offspring later this year if you book in for a stay or lunch, or dinner......

Hanging baskets, tubs & gardens....

2011-04-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Janet and Howard and Robert have been to Labernum Nurseries to choose the bedding plants for the containers, hanging baskets and gardens; 2,000 have been ordered to ensure that the Gibbon Bridge gardens are upto their normal standard! A huge variety of geraniums, bizzy lizzies, surphinias, fuschias.... the list goes on and the plants will be on their way to us very soon.

In the meantime the polytunnels are full of herbs, and a huge variety of leaves for salads, and flowers for cutting... Howard is even developing some watercress fields in and around the gardens - so when you are here during the summer months you will almost definately be eating our very own watercress and salad leaves. More on the garden to follow now that we are getting to that time of year! If you want to learn more, and see more, of the gardens why not come along to our Gardening Day on Monday 27th June for more informaton visit the website http://www.gibbon-bridge.co.uk or give us a call on 01995 61456.

Sainsburys Magazine.....

2011-04-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

Check out the May issue of Sainsburys Magazine; on their UK Break page there is a great article on the Forest of Bowland... http://forestofbowland Sudi Pigott, who wrote the article, stayed with us last November and we have put together a reader offer with them - so if you want to take advantage of it get down to Sainsburys and pick up a copy!

A Cuckoo....

2011-04-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

spotted in the garden yesterday..... heard in the lane today - May must be around the corner! To get you in the mood for romance and sunny days we are putting on another Champagne Saturday on 16th April, and also our 50/50 Fridays are back starting on the 15th April and finishing on Friday 29th April when we can even offer you an early checkin so that you can make the most of your day.

A lot of lunch...

2011-04-05T01:28:00.000-07:00

A lot of lunch was served at GB on Suday for Mothering Sunday! We enjoyed the day and hope all the mums and other guests did as well. It was great that the sun shone and people were able to take a stroll around the gardens and really make the most of a beautiful day in a beautiful setting..... Thank you for chosing Gibbon Bridge to spend your special day!