Explore the Forest of Bowland From Your Private Caravan Park

Date: 18/07/25

When you think about places to visit from your private caravan park at Morecambe Lodge, you probably think of the nearby Lake District or the Yorkshire Dales. What you might not know is that there is a three hundred square mile Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right on your doorstep in the Forest of Bowland.

Less well known, and so less visited than the Lake District, you’ll find the Forest of Bowland far more peaceful and far less busy. It has all the majesty and natural beauty, but none of the tourist trap shops and attractions.

What is the Forest of Bowland

The first thing to know about the Forest of Bowland is that it is not a forest; at least not in the usual sense of lots of trees everywhere. In this case, the word ‘forest’ refers to a royal hunting ground, which was set aside from the usual farming and cultivation. 

It’s this that gives the AONB its unique landscape of wild open spaces and heather moorland, with undulating lowlands and an upland core, split by deep valleys accessed via the spectacular Trough of Bowland pass.

Step back in time

The forest of Bowland is truly a land lost in time, not only in its landscape, but also in the dozens of charming villages dotted across the area. Many of these traditional stone villages are packed with history and heritage, with some tracing their story back over 3,000 years. 

The land itself is rich in history too, echoing to the hunting parties of kings and dukes down the ages. This has left us with more than 500 listed buildings within the Forest of Bowland and no less than 18 scheduled monuments to discover and explore. You can even visit the ‘geographical centre of Great Britain’, close to Whitendale Hanging Stones, just to the north of Dunsop Bridge.

Best of all, you can explore the Forest of Bowland’s history without damaging its future. The ANOB was the first in Britain to be awarded the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in a Protected Area, and it was runner-up in the International Responsible Tourism Awards.

Step out and explore

If you don’t want a huge hike from your private caravan park before you even start walking, then the Forest of Bowland is the perfect choice. You’ll find miles of undisturbed walks for all ages and abilities around the Bowland fells, along with quiet country roads for cycling. Don’t miss the magnificent Pendle Hill, with far-reaching views across the Ribble Valley and out to the coast and your private caravan park.

Because it is so much quieter than other areas, you’ll find the Forest of Bowland teeming with wildlife, both on the ground and on the wing. It is a birders’ paradise packed with rarely seen breeds nesting on the moors and hillsides. Plus, of course, you’re never too far from the next quaint village pub offering a warm welcome and great homecooked food at the end of your wildlife safari.

You can even make the most of your trip to the Forest of Bowland by booking your own experienced guide. Whatever level you are at, from gentle strolls to mountain hikes, the Festival Bowland programme will pair you with the perfect guide.

On the doorstep of your private caravan park

You’re already spoiled for choice when it comes to days out from Morecambe Lodge private caravan park, with the Lakes and the Dales so close by. And if you add the Forest of Bowland to your list, you’ll have even more options for getting back to nature and enjoying the stunning landscapes of Northern England.

To find out more, visit the Forest of Bowland website, or to find out more about our private caravan park at Morecambe Lodge, get in touch today, download our brochure, or book a site visit to come along and see our popular coastal caravan park for yourself.