The Forest of Bowland
Beautiful unspoilt countryside, picturesque villages, dramatic open moorland incised by steep valleys and outstanding scenery … all waiting to be explored!
And what better way to do it than by bike? Silently travelling around this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty under your own power, coming across hidden gems around every corner - this truly is a spectacular landscape for biking enthusiasts of all ages, interests and levels of experience.
Located in the North West of England, the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) covers 312sq miles of rural Lancashire and North Yorkshire, approximately situated between the M6, M65 and A59, north of the city of Preston.
The Forest of Bowland AONB offers plenty of opportunity for quiet enjoyment such as cycling, and with newly opened Access Land, can now offer some of the most remote and rugged outdoor adventure in the North West.
Cycle Adventure offers cycle hire, guiding and tours throughout the Forest of Bowland with starting locations including Chipping, Dunsop Bridge, Newton, Slaidburn and Gisburn Forest.
In 2005 the Forest of Bowland AONB became the first protected area in England to be awarded the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas, joining just 30 other protected areas across Europe.
The Charter is awarded to protected areas that are delivering tourism that is both nature and landscape friendly, and which contributes to the economic development of the region.
The Charter approach ensures that organisations, local people and businesses are working together to protect the area, whilst at the same time increasing opportunities for visitors to discover and enjoy its special qualities.
Click here for a map of the Forest of Bowland.
Please be aware of and follow the Cycling Code of Conduct and Countryside Code.
Cycle Hire and Guiding available in other parts of the North West & UK - Lancashire, the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbria (inc. Lake District, Ribble Valley, Pendle, Rossendale, Rivington).
