Newburgh

Although there was a small settlement in the area long before the Norman invasion of 1066, Newburgh came into its own in the 14th century. During the English Civil War, cottages and farms belonged to the Earl of Derby who lived at Lathom Hall.

A Fair Day is held every June in the village. It originates from the 14th century and was held on the eve, the day and the morrow of St Barnabas' Day (2 June) and was a real festive occasion.

By the early 19th Century, the small village of Newburgh boasted five inns - the Red Lion, the Gold Lion, the Wheatsheaf, the Horse and Jockey and the Eagle and Child. Today only one survives - the Red Lion - a very fashionable village pub and hotel. The Horse and Jockey became at various times a slaughter house, tailor's shop and, more recently, the village Post Office and store.

Woodcock Hall dates back to the 14th century and was known as Newburgh House prior to 1800. The well known James Hesketh and his family lived there from 1945 until 1983. They grew peas intensively and were the first to grow and sell strawberries in the area. Game shooting parties were held each season.

The first village school started in 1714 in Smithy Lane and was then transferred to Back lane in 1860. It is still a primary school today.