Outdoors
Explore the Forest of Bowland with the New Discover Bowland app
Posted on:
7 July 2026
A brand-new way to explore the Forest of Bowland National Landscape has arrived with the launch of the Discover Bowland app
Forest of Bowland
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
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Forest of Bowland Businesses
Business Directory
Learn to Cook Italian at La Locanda
An immersive experience for individuals or small groups to make fresh Italian pastas, breads or risotto in a state-of-the-art restaurant kitchen.
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Business Directory
La Locanda Ristorante Italiano & Wine Bar
Full 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.
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Free
Dark Sky Discovery Sites
4 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.
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Free
Gisburn Forest
All year round, Gisburn Forest offers different experiences for different people. Explore on foot, on horseback or by bike. Find popular trails and quiet glades or explore this accredited Dark Sky Discovery Site after dark.
Read MoreForest of Bowland Events
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Events
A Beginner’s DSLR Camera & Photography Workshop - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 25th Jul 2026
Are you new to photography? Have you just bought a DSLR camera, or have one that’s sitting collecting dust, that you’re still trying to figure out how it works, and what all those buttons do?Bring your camera along and join this beginn...
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Events
Indian Wood Block Printing Workshop - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 15th Aug 2026
Print your own tote bag or cushion - an introduction to Indian Block Printing using traditional hand-carved wooden blocks. In this relaxed and fun workshop you will learn how to apply paint, and build simple repeating patterns to create your own t...
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Events
Dried Flower Wreath Workshop - Morning Session - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 6th Sept 2026
Join us for a relaxed and creative workshop where you’ll craft your own stunning dried flower wreath using a selection of locally grown and naturally dried flowers and foliage.All materials are provided, along with step-by-step guidanc...
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Events
Arm Knitting Workshop with AllyBobsKnits - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 13th Sept 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...
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Free
Artisan Market “Apple” - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 26th Sept 2026
This autumn, we’re delighted to welcome some of our favourite local craftspeople, designers and producers to our “Apple” Artisan Market.It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet talented local makers, discover the stories behind their work,...
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Events
Weave a Round Asymmetric Basket with Wood Handle - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 3rd Oct 2026
Design and create your own Round Asymmetric Basket, with the expert instruction of Julie at Pip Cottage.This is a great basket to make and can be used for storage, foraging or as an ornament for your self or to gift to someone.
Read MoreForest of Bowland Routes & Trails
Free | Outdoors
Trough of Bowland Cycling Route
Duration4 hours
Distance34 miles
A 34 mile loop taking you through the beautiful Trough of Bowland and Forest of Bowland National Landscape starting in Garstang
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Coastal | Outdoors
Way of the Roses Cycling Route
Distance170 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.
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