7 Things to Do in the Forest of Bowland Area of Natural Beauty

17 February 2019

The Forest of Bowland is an area of Lancashire that many miss out on as they journey north heading straight for the Lake District.

Our Bowland Lakes Leisure Village is a wonderful location for a break in this beautiful area. So be sure to get in touch with us to check availability!

Sawley Abbey

The ruins of Sawley Abbey are worth a visit if you’re in the area and you can still see parts of the church and refectory. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic, as it’s right by the River Ribble. If you fancy a walk there is plenty of beautiful countryside surrounding it in which to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air.

Bowland Wild Boar and Animal Park

Animal lovers can head to the Bowland Wild Boar and Animal Park for a family day of fun that includes feeding and petting the animals, or taking a walk along their woodland paths. There are tractor rides, an adventure play area and a hay barn with tunnels to be explored, all of which will keep little ones entertained for hours.

There is also a café where you can enjoy hot drinks, snacks and lunches along with views over the Trough of Bowland.

Stargazing

The Forest of Bowland is beautiful in the daytime. But just as captivating once the sun sets if you turn your eyes to the sky. For those who enjoy stargazing, finding truly dark areas is a rare treat, but the Forest of Bowland has some of the darkest skies in England.

There are five designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites which all have parking, so if you fancy seeing the stars yourself, check out the map here to see where they are.

Beacon Fell

If you’re after a walk in the woods, Beacon Fell Country Park is a wonderful option. The summit of Beacon Fell offers incredible views across the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay. You can even see the Isle of Man on a clear day!

As well as enjoying the walk itself, you can keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. There are plenty of rabbits and hares to be seen. And if you’re patient you may even see roe deer, stoats and weasels!

The Inn at Whitewell

Fine dining doesn’t come much finer than the fare served at the award winning Inn at Whitewell. Chef Jamie Cadman cooks up simple dishes that really allow the quality to show itself. All using the best local ingredients including meat and game.

The atmosphere is wonderful and the old fashioned surroundings complement the simple but delicious food to a tee. Viewers of The Trip may well recognise it – Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon made it their first stop on their trip!

Wyresdale Park

Wyresdale Park is an estate that has a whole lot to offer visitors to the area. It has, over the years, grown from strength to strength. The family who owns it has put a lot of care into ensuring that it thrives as an estate. While helping to promote eco-tourism in the area.

Nicky Nook at the heart of the estate is a fell that is a favourite with local walkers. It offers incredible views. And once you descend you can enjoy a delicious meal or some cake and coffee at the Applestore Cafe.

Bentham Pottery

Fancy trying your hand at pottery? Bentham Pottery offers pottery classes for individuals or groups. Whether it’s your first time throwing or you already have some pottery skills, it’s a great place to come and do some learning.

We hope this has given you a few ideas if you’re in the area visiting us at our Bowland Lakes park. This list only scratches the surface and there is plenty of exploring to be done, particularly if you love the great outdoors!