There’s nothing better than exploring the countryside and discovering new places along the way! The North of England has some of the most beautiful areas in the country for walking, so we’ll kickstart with the top 5 walks in the Forest of Bowland. Slip on those wellies and take your pick of some of the best outdoor activities for all the family.

1. Calder Vale : Home of bluebells and woodland delights, Calder Vale is widely known for being one of the few remaining traditional working villages, complete with a fully working mill. Once used for cotton weaving, it now specialises in textiles where the weaving looms can still be heard within the village. As well as being a thriving village, packed with history and heritage, Calder Vale is set within a remote yet beautiful area; perfect for anyone in search of peace and tranquillity on their walk through the Forest of Bowland. Download Map.

2. Chipping: is an often overlooked village situated close to the River Loud, with a history dating back to Medieval times which can still be seen in the beautiful stone built cottages and remaining water mills. A 13th century church, 17th century school and almshouses add further to the delightful history of Chipping. With an abundance of beautiful countryside walks near Chipping, you may get lost in the history of this unspoilt conservation area in the heart of Lancashire. Download Map.

3. Dunsop Bridge: The gateway to the Trough of Bowland, Dunsop Bridge is the perfect place to begin a walk through the beautiful Lancashire moors towards Lancaster. Plenty of picnic stops along this route, make it a fun walk for all the family. And as the official centre of the British Isles, Dunsop Bridge is a popular destination for fell walkers throughout the area. Download Map.

4. Scorton: Popular with many walkers and cyclists throughout Lancashire, Scorton boasts many beautiful walking routes through to the Forest of Bowland. Situated between the historic market towns of Garstang and Lancaster, Scorton is the perfect destination for all the family with Wyresdale Park offering a well-deserved and picturesque pitstop at the Applestore Café before enjoying views across the Trough of Bowland, as you work your way towards the famous Nicky Nook. Download Map.

5. Slaidburn: Deeper into the heart of the Trough of Bowland, Slaidburn offers a quintessential village, situated on the banks of the Hodder. It’s beautiful stone buildings and Heritage Centre is a popular area for walks in the Forest of Bowland. Rich in history, Slaidburn is one of the few villages in Lancashire to offer an in-depth history into the village’s heritage as well as the history of the Trough of Bowland. The famous St Andrew’s church offers a rare opportunity to witness Lancashire history dating back over ten centuries, making Slaidburn a popular destination for fell walkers, along with its beautiful location and easy walking routes in the Forest of Bowland. Download Map.