A delightful village nestled on the edge of the Forest of Bowland offers an ideal day out, boasting crystal-clear waters,picture-perfect cottages andunique independent shops.

Barrowford in Pendle sits at the meeting point of Pendle and Colne Waters - and when conditions are right, you can spot trout springing from the water into the sky.

The picturesque lanes are lined with magnificent 17th and 18th century farmhouses, whilst the upmarket high street featuring luxury boutiques has become a favoured spot for North-West footballers to set up home, according to Visit Lancashire.

As an added treat, Barrowford is amongst numerous villages positioned along the waterway that runs from Leeds to Liverpool.

This vast 127-mile waterway features seven of its 91 locks within Barrowford. History enthusiasts can take a walk to the 16th century Packhorse Bridge close to Higherford Mill, which spans the canal, reports Lancs Live.

Should you fancy more than simply absorbing the charming atmosphere, you can explore the Pendle Heritage Centre, which houses Barrowford's two most ancient buildings - the Fold and Park Hill - both built in 1550.

Each year, the Pendle Cycling festival also meanders through Barrowford, providing an excellent opportunity to witness a stream of cyclists racing through and around the village. The centre boasts a remarkable exhibition.

One Trip Advisor reviewer said: "Pendle Heritage Centre is a magnificent building and beautiful grounds, including a walled Garden and its own vegetable and spice patches, which we were told, are even used in the salads that the cafe serve in the summer."

They added: "We particularity enjoyed the exhibition on the Pendle witch trials as this was one of our main reasons for travelling up here. After the self tour around the house, you can walk back through the gift shop which had loads of interesting merchandise.

"There was a lot of reading to do but overall it was an amazing day here and I bet it would look even better in the summer when the garden is blooming."

The visitor added: "I was expecting the museum area to be quite small due to it being a heritage Centre, but I was absolutely wrong.

"As you first walk in you're greeted by very friendly staff who inform you what to expect while walking round and were very knowledgeable about the house and grounds. We spent around 1 hour listening to all the audio prompts and videos."