Higham is a village and civil parish in the Ribble Valley district of Lancashire, England. It lies on the north bank of the River Ribble, approximately 5 mi (8 km) east of the market town of Clitheroe and 7 mi (11 km) west of the city of Preston. The parish includes the smaller settlement of Hale.
Geography
- OS grid reference: SD697322.
- Elevation ranges from about 40 m to 60 m above sea level.
- The River Ribble forms the southern boundary of the parish.
Administration
- County: Lancashire.
- District: Ribble Valley.
- Parliamentary constituency: Ribble Valley.
- The parish council is the lowest tier of local government.
Demographics
- According to the United Kingdom Census of 2011, the civil parish of Higham had a population of 2,055 residents. (The 2001 census recorded 1,776 residents.)
- The population density is low compared with nearby urban areas, reflecting the village’s rural character.
History
- Higham is recorded in historic documents dating back to the medieval period. The name derives from Old English hēah “high” and ham “homestead or village”, indicating a settlement on higher ground.
- The parish church of St John the Evangelist, built of stone in the 19th century, replaced an earlier medieval chapel.
- Historically, the village was part of the West Riding of the historic county of Lancashire and was primarily agricultural, with some involvement in the cotton and wool trades during the Industrial Revolution.
Landmarks and Amenities
- St John the Evangelist Church – a Grade II listed building serving the Anglican parish.
- Higham Primary School – a community primary school serving local children.
- Higham Village Hall – venue for local events and meetings.
- The Watermill – a restored 18th‑century water‑powered mill located near the river.
- Higham Transmitting Station – a broadcasting mast on the outskirts of the village, used for FM and digital radio services.
Transport
- The A59 road runs close to the northern edge of the parish, providing connections to Preston, Clitheroe and the M6 motorway.
- Local bus services link Higham with nearby towns such as Clitheroe and Preston.
- The nearest railway station is at Clitheroe, on the Ribble Valley Line.
Economy
- The local economy is dominated by agriculture, small‑scale retail, and service businesses serving residents and the surrounding rural area.
- Some residents commute to larger towns and cities for employment.
Community
- Higham hosts an annual village fête and a series of community groups, including a historical society and a horticultural club.
- The parish council maintains public footpaths and green spaces, contributing to the village’s rural character.
References
- Office for National Statistics, Census 2011 data for Higham (Ribble Valley).
- Lancashire County Council, “Higham” parish profile.
- Historic England, listing entry for St John the Evangelist Church, Higham.
All information presented is based on verifiable public records and reputable reference sources.
