Glamping in Forest of Bowland

The Forest of Bowland is a serene destination that will provide you with a peaceful glamping holiday in a meadow setting. This is one of the most remote destinations in the country and has been dubbed the 'Switzerland of England'. The essential character of the forest landscape is grandeur and isolation, and it is dotted with picturesque villages and miles of lush, beautiful nature. Plus many interesting ancient histories with connections to the witch trials, as well as villages such as the village of Sabden which boasts large boulders supposedly bearing the devil's footprints.

After strenuous hikes in the hills and valleys, you can enjoy quality wooden glamping accommodation that includes free Wi-Fi, cosy surroundings, modern furnishings, as well as an outdoor fire pit and dining area for you to enjoy a hot chocolate or evening meal. Bowland Forest's comfortable glamping sites are surrounded by captivating countryside as well as dramatic moorland scenery like no other! This makes for a relaxing experience where you will wake up to the sound of grazing cows. No wonder Bowland was formally called “Bolland”, meaning land of the cows…

The Forest of Bowland offers some of the most remote walking in the North West. On the western edge of the Forest of Bowland you can find Beacon Fell Country Park which has 110 hectares of woodland and moorland. It's a popular area with numerous footpaths, a cycle path and even a hillside trail for horse riders where you can hike and cycle, as well as a sculpture trail that goes all the way to the top with fantastic views of the countryside. Crook O'Lune, a beautiful spot on the River Lune also has a path called the Lune Millennium Trail, a walking, and cycling trail to the centre of Lancaster! Bowland's crystal clear lakes and rivers are also a haven for those who enjoy activities such as fishing (The Forest is endowed with some of the best trout and salmon fishing in England). Exploring some Forest of Bowland's villages on foot or by bike is a favourite activity for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

With rolling hills, valleys and expanses of moorland, The Forest of Bowland has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you'll find vibrant flora and fauna to marvel at. The Forest of Bowland covers 312 square miles of rural Lancashire and is filled with spectacular valley views, rolling hills, waterfalls, and boasts four of the country's most unspoilt rivers: the Hodder, the Ribble, the Wyre and the Lune. You'll be captivated by the many species you'll see including enigmatic birds, deer, rabbits, red foxes and badgers. The area is a birdwatcher's delight. You'll also discover stunning sites such as Pendle Hill, Stocks Reservoir, Fair Snape and many more, passing through important wildlife habitats, reservoirs and beautiful meadows.

The lack of light pollution in Bowland makes it a fantastic place for stargazing. On dark, clear nights, look high in the sky for stargazing. You can see everything from the incredible Aurora Borealis, the Andromeda Galaxy, Nebulas to the Milky Way. There are several areas within Bowland designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites such as Beacon Fell Country Park, Crook o' Lune and Gisburn where you can best appreciate these shows!

Bowland Boar Park is the ideal place to head to if you want to entertain the kids. The little ones can meet a variety of animals including red deer, meerkats, goats, rabbits, alpacas and more! Explore the park, have fun outdoors, let the kids drive a tractor and at the end of the day enjoy a family meal in the cafeteria, where rare breeds of meat can be eaten. The farm is in the heart of Bowland near the village of Chipping, on the banks of the River Hodder.

The Wyresdale Estate is also an ideal haven where your children will be entertained for hours! With 800 acres, the estate offers activities such as supervised hunting and fishing. Plus the chance to paddle and swim in Wyresdale Lake. Not to be missed, this is one of the most visited places in the area and offers incredible views from Nicky Nook Fell, a favourite with hikers and a defining feature of the estate. In the grounds you can also enjoy a delicious meal or cake and coffee at the Applestore Café on your way down the hill.

If you've never tried a pottery course before, now's your chance to take the plunge and learn with expert potters! Bentham Pottery offers pottery courses for all ages and abilities. The venue is located near the village of Ingleton and produces a range of high quality domestic pottery. If you prefer not to do the course, here you can also find unique pots, commemorative plates, vases and more. All handmade and hand decorated. You will also have the opportunity to watch the potters at work.

The Trough of Bowland is one of Lancashire's most iconic stretches of countryside and was the route taken by the 'Pendle Witches' to their trial at Lancaster Castle. The valley is surrounded by unspoilt countryside with streams and is popular with cyclists. It was here that Sir Bradley Wiggins prepared for the Olympics and described it as his favourite place to cycle. Wrap yourself in the fateful story of the Pendle witches and cycle through the valley. The rides along the Trough are fantastic!

Enjoy delicious food and try the excellent range of drinks from local ales, wines to organic ginger beers. The award-winning Inn at Whitewell offers dishes using the finest local ingredients that will leave you with a great taste. Head chef Jamie Cadman uses the finest local meats to turn a basic menu into something utterly majestic. Best of all, the kitchen makes its own breads, chutneys, jams, puddings, marmalades and more, so you won't have to worry about processed products.

Situated on a hill overlooking the Lune Valley and Ingleborough, Hornby Castle is a must-see on your list of places to visit. This gothic-style architecture has extensive grounds with beautiful walks and is Hornby's most distinctive attraction. The beautiful gardens will give you plenty to explore, smell and see, as well as delightful walks along the river. During the spring, the colourful display is a great attraction for visitors, so we recommend you visit especially at this time of year for your viewing pleasure.