Discover the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, a truly distinctive part of Lancashire where sweeping moorlands, wide open skies and quiet valleys create a setting that feels a world away from everyday life. Covering 312 square miles across rural Lancashire and into neighbouring Yorkshire, the area is dotted with stone-built villages and historic landmarks, each with its own story to tell. From places like Downham and Slaidburn to the long-established village of Barley—perfectly placed for a walk up Pendle Hill.
This is a place best explored at your own pace, whether on foot, by bike or on horseback, with a network of routes leading through fells, farmland and river valleys. Wildlife watching is a highlight, alongside the chance to discover local produce and welcoming countryside inns along the way. For those looking to delve a little deeper, the Festival Bowland programme offers guided walks, events and activities that showcase the area’s natural beauty and culture, making it easy to experience this special landscape in a meaningful way.
Find out more Forest of Bowland
Gisburn Forest is inviting families to enjoy a spellbinding Room on the Broom adventure this Halloween, with a special seasonal activity added to the trail throughout October.
Pumpkin picking is becoming more popular every year, with all shapes, colours, and sizes ready to be picked and carved. Even better, most places now provide you with the option to carve your pumpkin there, so you can leave your mess behind!
A brand-new way to explore the Forest of Bowland National Landscape has arrived with the launch of the Discover Bowland app
An immersive experience for individuals or small groups to make fresh Italian pastas, breads or risotto in a state-of-the-art restaurant kitchen.
Read MoreFull of original, rustic charm, La Locanda's owners Maurizio and Cinzia Bocchi will take you to the heart of Italian cuisine, serving you truly authentic recipes that go back generations.
Read MoreAll year round, Gisburn Forest offers different experiences for different people.
Read More4 Dark Sky Discovery Sites in Bowland at Beacon Fell Country Park, Crook O'Lune Picnic Site, Slaidburn and Gisburn Forest Hub. There's no better time to explore Bowland's dark skies.
Read MoreSelect a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Date: 8th Nov 2026
Get creative, have fun and learn a new skill by coming along to one of AllyBobsKnits popular chunky wool blanket arm knitting workshops.You will knit your very own chunky knit blanket from 2kg of 100% pure unspun merino wool to take ho...
Read MoreDate: 13th Nov 2026
An evening celebrating the finest flavours of Lancashire, with Field to Fork: A Taste of the Wild.
Read MoreDates: 14th Nov 2026 - 15th Nov 2026
Saturday 14th November 2026, 9.00am - 5.00pmSunday 15th November 2026, 10.00am - 4.00pmOur popular Artisan Christmas Markets are back...Our Christmas Markets are back, nestled amongst the beautiful surroundings...
Read MoreDates: 21st Nov 2026 - 22nd Nov 2026
Saturday 21st November 2026, 9.00am - 5.00pmSunday 22nd November 2026, 10.00am - 4.00pmOur popular Artisan Christmas Markets are back...Our Christmas Markets are back, nestled amongst the beautiful surroundings of Holden Cl...
Read MoreDate: 22nd Nov 2026
Sunday 22nd November, 14.00pm - 15.30pmJoin us for a fabulous festive wine tasting, featuring wines chosen to complement your Christmas celebrations. From aperitif to Christmas pud, we’ll explore wines that pair beautifully with your f...
Read MoreDate: 26th Nov 2026
An evening of fine whiskey, delicious food and great company.
Read MoreDuration4 hours
Distance34 miles
A 34 mile loop taking you through the beautiful Trough of Bowland and Forest of Bowland National Landscape starting in Garstang
Read MoreDistance170 miles
The Way of the Roses is a spectacular coast to coast cycle route which takes you past some of the best cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty in northern England.
Read More
