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
Be Inspired
With more people taking to the roads for a family roadtrip this summer, we're giving you the best spots to go to if you need to take a break off the M6 motorway
Forest of Bowland Businesses
Business Directory
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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Groups | Family Friendly
Bowland Wild Boar Park
Packed with adventure for the whole family.
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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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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.
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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.
Read MoreForest of Bowland Events
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Events
Living Art Workshop - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 20th Jun 2026
Enjoy a relaxing morning creating a piece of living art within the beautiful setting of at Holden Clough Nurseries.You will spend an hour and a half using a variety of succulent plants and natural materials designing, crafting and crea...
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Outdoors
Open Gardens Ribble Valley
Dates: 20th Jun 2026 - 21st Jun 2026
Over 20 gorgeous private gardens open over the weekend, decorated churches, plant stalls, delicious homemade refreshments, glorious countryside.
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Events
Secrets to Success with Pots & Containers - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 25th Jun 2026
Many homes across The Ribble Valley and beyond don’t have a garden, or the ability to create and dig flower beds. Some have a yard, a flagged space, or maybe no outdoor space at all.This doesn’t mean that you can’t add plants, colour a...
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Events
Willow Workshop - Rectangular Willow Trug Basket - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 27th Jun 2026
Enjoy a satisfying hands-on workshop weaving a very practical and attractive rectangular willow trug. Guided by expert basketmaker Julie from Pip Cottage, you’ll learn traditional techniques and leave with a beautiful, functional basket to use and...
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Events
Learn How To Use Your Sewing Machine Workshop - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 5th Jul 2026
Have you got a sewing machine but don’t know how to use it? Perhaps you’ve recently bought / aquired one? Maybe you’ve had one collecting dust for a while, and you’re not sure where to start with it? You aren’t alone!With shows like Th...
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Free
Artisan Market “Hydrangea” - Holden Clough Nurseries
Date: 11th Jul 2026
This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome a handpicked collection of our favourite local craftspeople, designers and producers to our “Hydrangea” Artisan Market.It’s a lovely chance to meet the talented makers behind the brands, hear the...
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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