The Forest of Bowland AONB The Forest of Bowland AONB

In 1964, the Forest of Bowland was designated as an Area of Outstanding Beauty. The forests offers wildlife enthusiasts, avid walkers, cyclists and family's a great location for a day outdoors.

Due to its unspoiled and richly divers landscapes, the forest is of international importance with 13% being a designated Site of Scientific Interest. The unique habitats and geological features mean the forest is home to a large range of specific wildlife.

The Forest of Bowland is home to many endangered birds including merlin and ring ouzels, rare hen harriers, lapwing, curlew redshank, redstart and oystercatchers.

Offering some of the most beautiful remote walking in the country from moorland hills to contrasting river valleys, the serenity and tranquillity really makes The Forest of Bowland a walker’s paradise.

There are a mix of long and challenging trails as well as shorter routes for beginners and families including the riverside walks. To view all walking routes and the Forest of Bowland walking safety guide visit their website here.

The forest is scattered with picturesque picnic spots which are a favourite amongst families. There are also a range of sculpture and nature trails set out on the website. We love creating our own nature walks, looking for bugs and critters along the way and seeing how many we can identify.

The Forest of Bowland is an official Dark Sky Discovery Site with great undisturbed locations to watch the night sky. Jupiter, Saturn, Venus and Mars can all be spotted throughout the year and with the changing seasons there is always something new to see.

For those hoping for a camping trip near The Forest of Bowland, our Clitheroe Club Site is just 10 miles away.