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. 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 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.
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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 MoreDate: 4th Oct 2026
Sunday 4th October 2026, 10.00am - 4.00pmCelebrate the magic of autumn with a full day of seasonal creativity! This relaxing workshop is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike, giving you the opportunity to create two bea...
Read MoreDate: 8th Oct 2026
Traditionally, Autumn is the best time to plant...From shrubs for winter interest to perennials for height, colour and to fill any gaps. It’s also the best time to get your spring bulbs in the ground or into your chosen containers. The...
Read MoreDate: 11th Oct 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: 17th Oct 2026
Create a wonderful Pumpkin Planter in celebration of Halloween, filled with hardy succulents to display indoors or outdoors.Celebrate Autumn, Halloween and harvest season as well as having lots of fun getting messy with soil, succulent...
Read MoreDate: 17th Oct 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...
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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