As a Lancashire local who lives for the outdoors, I feel truly lucky to have the Forest of Bowland just around the corner. 🌿
Also called Bowland Fells, this area boasts stunning crags, dramatic valleys, ancient woodlands, sparkling reservoirs, rolling pastures, and quaint little villages scattered across its breathtaking scenery.
Fun fact – many first-time visitors are shocked to learn that much of the Forest of Bowland isn’t actually a forest! 🌳 The name comes from its history as an old royal hunting park.
Declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1964, the forest stretches mostly across Lancashire, with a touch of its magic reaching into the scenic North Yorkshire countryside.
Undeniably one of the best spots in the northwest for country walking, ramblers have endless trails to explore. I’ve been wandering here since I was a child, and even now, there’s always something new to discover!
Being a lesser-known walking gem compared to nearby national parks like the Lakes, Yorkshire Dales, and Peak District, the area stays largely untouched and never swarmed by crowds – perfect for anyone craving peace and quiet. 🌄
With so many trails to choose from, you might be wondering which ones are truly the best.
Honestly, you can’t really go wrong; almost every route promises an amazing hike.
That said, I’m excited to share some of my personal favorites – guaranteed to deliver a fantastic day out!
Forest of Bowland Walks
Starting Point: Barley Picnic Site Car Park, Barley, BB12 9JX
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Arguably offering the best countryside views in the county, Pendle Hill draws thousands of walkers from near and far every year. 🏞️
Famous for the chilling Pendle witch trials of 1612, this historic climb starts in Barley and can be completed by most in under three hours at a steady pace.
Fun fact – it’s a magnet for supernatural fans, and the hit TV show Most Haunted even filmed a spooky episode here back in 2004.
Standing tall at 1,827 ft, the short but steep ascent is challenging, yet the breathtaking views from the summit make every step worth it.
From the top, you can gaze across Lancashire and even spot into the Yorkshire Dales. On a clear day, Blackpool Tower might even make an appearance!
The footpath is well-marked and easy to follow – just keep an eye out for the signposts featuring the witch on her broomstick.
Starting Point: Stocks Reservoir Car Park, School Ln, Clitheroe BB7 4TS
Distance: 5.8 km (3.6 miles)
One of the Forest of Bowland’s best-kept secrets, many visitors have no idea this hidden waterfall lies deep within Gisburn Forest. 🌊
Tucked away in thick woodland at the base of a steep valley, finding the waterfall can be tricky, and the descent should only be attempted by those confident in their footing.
Even so, the waterfall is a stunning sight, and the 5.8-kilometre loop around Gisburn Forest makes for a thoroughly enjoyable hike, whether or not you reach the cascade.
For those eager to explore even more, the woodlands offer plenty of offshoot trails waiting to be discovered. 🌿
You can also take the route around the nearby Stocks Reservoir – more on that coming up!
Starting Point: Stocks Reservoir Car Park, School Ln, Clitheroe BB7 4TS
Distance: 10.8 km (6.7 miles)
First opened by Prince George on 5th July 1932, Stocks Reservoir is a standout spot – the only reservoir in the entire United Utilities’ Bowland Estate. 💧
The full loop around the embankment stretches about 7 miles, offering breathtaking views of sparkling waters and the surrounding wild woodland.
Relatively flat and easy to follow, the circuit is still a solid trek! Expect the full walk to take around three hours – maybe longer if you can’t resist a stop at the charming café for a warm cuppa. ☕
With all the twisting trails of Gisburn Forest nearby, adventurous walkers can easily extend their ramble for an extra dose of exploration.
Starting Point: Barley Picnic Site Car Park, Barley, BB12 9JX
Distance: 4.5 km (2.7 miles)
If a steep climb up Pendle Hill isn’t your thing, or you’re just after something different, the Pendle Sculpture Trail is a blast for all ages and abilities. 🎨
This scenic 5 km route winds through Aitken Wood, showcasing quirky sculptures inspired by the Pendle Witches and the area’s fascinating history.
Full of striking sights and a fun way to dive into local lore, sculpture artist Ngaire Jackson describes Pendle as having “a magical quality about the whole area.”
After exploring it yourself, you’ll struggle to disagree!
Starting Point: The Shireburn Arms, Hurst Green, Whalley, Clitheroe BB7 9QJ
Distance: 12 km (7.45 miles)
Guiding you through the very countryside that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien, this trail is a dream come true for any Lord of the Rings fan. 🌿
Tolkien, one of England’s most celebrated authors, is said to have penned some of his most dramatic scenes while staying in the idyllic village of Hurst Green during World War II.
The route takes you over rolling pastures, through enchanting woodlands, along sparkling rivers, and past fascinating historic sites. This charming ramble stands as one of Lancashire’s must-do walks, whether or not you’re a Middle Earth enthusiast.
Plus, the 10-kilometre loop conveniently ends at the Shireburn Arms beer garden – the perfect place for a well-earned pint (or two!) after your adventure.
Starting Point: Hurst Green, Whalley, Clitheroe BB7 9QJ
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
The southernmost fell in England, Longridge Fell rises to an impressive 1,148 feet, towering over the surrounding forest landscape. 🌄
Like the Tolkien Trail, the Longridge Fell hike is best started from Hurst Green and stretches about 5 miles.
The summit rewards you with stunning views no matter the season. However, the trail markings aren’t the clearest, as it’s a concessionary footpath rather than a Public Right of Way, so proper hiking boots are a must!
Top tip – while in Hurst Green, explore the grounds of Stonyhurst College. This historic boarding school, a Grade I listed building, has sections dating back to the 1200s. The gardens are enchanting, truly feeling like something straight out of Harry Potter.
Starting Point: Scorton, Preston, PR3 1BA
Distance: 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
Rising to 700 ft on the western edge of the Forest of Bowland, Nicky Nook offers stunning countryside views without the challenge of Pendle Hill.
A favourite for families, this gentle 3-mile stroll rewards you with sights of the coast, Ward’s Stone – the highest fell in the Forest of Bowland – and even the Lake District on a clear day.
Overlooking the village of Scorton near Garstang, the return route descends past Grizedale Reservoir, which is a beautiful sight all on its own.
Starting Point: Downham, Clitheroe, BB7 4BP
Distance: 8.4 km (5.2 miles)
Visiting Downham feels like stepping back in time. 🏘️
Untouched by modern changes, the village has preserved its old-world charm and is widely regarded as one of Lancashire’s prettiest spots.
A favourite for walkers, The Walking Englishman shares a fantastic 5-mile circular route from Downham that also takes in Worsaw Hill, Chatburn, Fairy Bridge, and Downham Bridge.
Top tip – the village is famous for its local ice cream, so make sure to reward yourself with a scoop (or two!) after your walk.
Starting Point: Quernmore, Lancaster, LA2 9EH
Distance: 13.6 km (8.5 miles)
Last but definitely not least, Ward’s Stone is the tallest fell in the Forest of Bowland, rising to an impressive 1,841 ft above sea level.
Slightly higher than Pendle Hill, it’s just 50 metres short of being officially classed as a mountain!
This 8.5-mile trek can be challenging, but the stunning summit views make every step worth it.
Home to two trig points almost a kilometre apart, Ward’s Stone offers breathtaking panoramas of the Forest of Bowland and surrounding fells. On a clear day, you might even spot Ingleborough!
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