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
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
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.
Read MoreAn 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. 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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Date: 9th Sept 2026
A pleasant circular walk around Garstang and Barnacre, taking in riverside and farmland.
Read MoreDate: 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...
Read MoreDate: 14th Sept 2026
Join The Pendle Mushroom Company for an immersive and hands-on workshop, exploring the fascinating world of fungi.Guided by expert mycologist and renowned wild food forager Ade Rose-a familiar face and voice from numerous TV and radio...
Read MoreDate: 16th Sept 2026
Join members of the North West Fungus Group for this early autumn foray in the grounds of Browsholme Hall.
Read MoreDate: 20th Sept 2026
Many think that older furniture was built better, stronger, and sturdier than they are today, but over time, cushions and covers can rip, fade, or the designs cxan simply become outdated.Join Lynne in this beginner’s upholstery class w...
Read MoreDate: 24th Sept 2026
Thursday 24th September 2026, 10.00am - 4.00pmThis workshop is part of a series of creative wellbeing workshops organised by the Cauda Equina Champions Charity to help raise awareness of Cauda Equina Syndrome.Unleash your c...
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.
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