There’s a hidden treasure of a village nestled in West Lancashire which is packed with delightful attractions and spectacular scenery – and it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary for 2026.

Boasting a beautiful marina, charming waterside eateries, Tudor architecture, excellent pubs, plus nearby nature reserves and animal farms – this compact village is genuinely remarkable.

Despite occupying a strategic location in Lancashire – situated at the meeting point of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, River Douglas, Ormskirk and Preston Railway, and the bustling A59 – it’s frequently overlooked owing to its ‘commuter hub’ reputation, with many travellers simply passing through without stopping to explore.

Encircled by stunning countryside and brimming with wonderful attractions, this charming hamlet has far more to offer than initially apparent. With its distinctive white-walled properties, magnificent marina vistas, historic waterway, and superb retail outlets, Rufford village in Lancashire is an unmissable destination.

The Leeds Liverpool canal flows through Rufford’s centre and connects to St Mary’s Marina and Fetler’s Wharf Marina, both offering breathtaking views and peaceful waters.

Offering a scenic retreat, Fettlers Wharf Marina is enveloped by green space and provides a perfect backdrop to savour the peace and serenity of the area.

This dog-friendly waterside haven provides visitors with canal-side delights, whilst nature trails and picturesque riverside strolls enhance its appeal. The well-kept pathways present excellent chances for enthusiasts to discover local wildlife and plant species , reports Lancs Live.

Outstanding waterside eateries

Nestled beside the picturesque Fettlers Wharf Marina, Tastebuds at the Wharf is an intimate waterside restaurant.

With an offerings spanning breakfast, lunch, afternoon teas, and an enticing selection of cakes and scones, visitors can soak up the spring sunshine from the cafe’s terrace whilst savouring tranquil marina panoramas.

The Boathouse Brasserie represents another exceptional waterside café, commanding views across St Mary’s Marina. Housed within a converted dairy farm, this family-operated venue launched in 2008 and delivers spectacular perspectives of the thriving marina.

The cafe boasts a delightful alfresco dining space overlooking the waterfront, equipped with its own gazebo and comfortable outdoor lodges for guests to unwind in.

Must-visit attractions in Rufford

No trip would be complete without experiencing Rufford Old Hall. This magnificent Tudor manor and its colourful gardens have been maintained by the National Trust since 1936.

The property functioned as the Hesketh family home for more than five hundred years before Rufford New Hall was built in Rufford Park. Fascinatingly, legend has it that the Old Hall’s Great Hall once hosted a young William Shakespeare during his pre-fame years.

The Old Hall also invites guests to explore its splendid Victorian and Edwardian gardens.

As for Rufford New Hall, Lancashire County Council acquired it in 1920, converting it into a pulmonary hospital for tuberculosis patients by 1926. The building remains operational as a hospital to this day.

Another notable attraction in Rufford is the Church of St Mary the Virgin, erected in 1869. This red brick parish church, designed in Gothic architecture complete with a steeple, holds Grade II Listed status.

The Hesketh Arms, a three-storey property thought to date from the late 18th century, ranks among the village’s most popular destinations for travellers.

This impressive historic inn, also Grade II listed, serves everything from traditional ales to pub favourites and dishes reflecting the seasons.

It’s celebrated for welcoming visitors with an inviting country-pub atmosphere from the moment they arrive, whilst the exterior space proves equally delightful, featuring generous seating arrangements perfect for savouring a drink on warm summer days.

A short distance from the village centre lies Mere Sands Wood – a nature reserve under the stewardship of the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside. 

Spanning 42 hectares of wildlife observation points and walking trails, complete with its own visitor centre and café, it represents an excellent destination for a family outing or gathering with friends. Nearby attractions include the Windmill Animal Farm, a haven for rare and exotic farm animals, complete with indoor and outdoor play areas.

Another fantastic option for a family day out is the Martin Mere Wetlands Centre. This internationally significant marshland refuge and nature reserve offers a host of family-friendly activities throughout the year.