Highlight • Pub
Road cycling
4.5
(33)
Owd Nell's Tavern is a charming, traditional canalside pub nestled within Guy's Thatched Hamlet in Bilsborrow, Lancashire, United Kingdom. Situated at an elevation of 24 metres right by the historic Lancaster Canal, this family-friendly establishment offers a welcoming retreat just off the A6, north of Preston. It serves as a central feature of a larger complex that includes various dining options, accommodation, and craft shops, making it a notable landmark in the region.
Visitors consistently praise Owd Nell's Tavern for…
Tips
September 12, 2018
Road cycling
August 11, 2021
Road cycling
June 9, 2024
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Owd Nell's Tavern
3
riders
95.3km
04:36
1,130m
1,130m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
92
riders
62.1km
02:40
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
80
riders
67.8km
02:46
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
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Beyond dining, Guy's Thatched Hamlet, where Owd Nell's Tavern is located, offers a variety of family-friendly activities. These include a dedicated play area for children, crown green bowling, and cricket activities. They also host regular 'Family Fun Days' and have featured Punch & Judy shows, making it an engaging destination for younger visitors.
Yes, the walking paths directly accessible from Owd Nell's Tavern, particularly those along the Lancaster Canal, are generally flat and accessible. They are considered suitable for all abilities, including beginners and families with strollers, offering a leisurely experience with minimal elevation gain.
Owd Nell's Tavern is known to be dog-friendly, particularly in its outdoor areas and beer garden by the canal. Many of the canalside walking paths around Guy's Thatched Hamlet are also suitable for dogs, making it a great spot for a walk with your canine companion. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, especially near the canal and in busier areas.
While the intro mentions leisurely strolls along the canal, for a circular route, you can combine sections of the Lancaster Canal towpath with local public footpaths. A popular option involves walking north or south along the canal for a desired distance, then looping back via quieter country lanes or other marked paths, often passing through picturesque woodlands. These routes typically offer scenic views and are generally easy to moderate in difficulty.
As a popular destination, Owd Nell's Tavern and Guy's Thatched Hamlet can get quite busy, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and during summer months. The canalside seating and walking paths are particularly sought after. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure parking and enjoy a more tranquil experience before the crowds gather.
Ample parking facilities are available within Guy's Thatched Hamlet, which serves Owd Nell's Tavern. These car parks are conveniently located for accessing both the tavern and the canalside walking paths. While generally sufficient, it's advisable to arrive early during peak times to ensure a spot, especially if you plan a longer walk.
Owd Nell's Tavern is situated just off the A6, making it accessible by road. While specific direct public transport links to Guy's Thatched Hamlet might be limited, local bus services operate along the A6, connecting nearby towns like Preston and Garstang. Visitors would likely need to alight at a stop on the A6 near Bilsborrow and walk a short distance to the hamlet.
The immediate walking paths around Owd Nell's Tavern, particularly along the Lancaster Canal, feature flat, well-maintained towpaths. These are typically gravel or compacted earth, making them suitable for most footwear. Away from the canal, paths may transition to grassy fields or country lanes, which can be uneven or muddy after rain.
The primary landmark is the Lancaster Canal itself, with its historic bridges and tranquil waters. As you walk, you'll enjoy views of the picturesque Lancashire countryside, often spotting narrowboats navigating the canal. While there aren't dramatic elevation changes for panoramic viewpoints, the charm lies in the peaceful canalside scenery and the occasional wildlife sightings.
While Owd Nell's Tavern is enjoyable year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) are ideal for walking, offering pleasant weather for canalside strolls and enjoying the outdoor seating. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, though paths might be muddier. Winter walks can be crisp and scenic, but ensure you wear appropriate waterproof footwear as conditions can be wet.
Yes, Owd Nell's Tavern is part of the larger Guy's Thatched Hamlet complex, which includes Guy's Lodge. This provides accommodation options for visitors who wish to extend their stay and explore the area further, making it convenient for multi-day trips or those attending events at the hamlet.