The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Bowland Forest High

Among the most popular peaks in Bowland Forest High are Nicky Nook Summit, a 215m high hill offering panoramic views towards the sea and the distant Lake District. Another favorite is Clougha Pike, with its trig point at 413m providing excellent views west over Lancaster to Morecambe Bay. Visitors also frequently enjoy the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit, known for its stunning vistas over the Forest of Bowland.

The highest point in the Forest of Bowland is Ward's Stone, standing at 561 meters (1,841 feet). Its expansive, flat summit plateau features two trig points and offers spectacular panoramic views that can stretch to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Morecambe Bay, and even Snowdonia on a clear day.

Yes, for a less strenuous but rewarding experience, Nicky Nook Summit is an excellent choice. Easily accessible from Scorton, its relatively easy ascent makes it popular for families. Additionally, the walk to Parlick Fell summit is often considered suitable for children who enjoy a bit of a climb, thanks to its distinctive conical shape.

The peaks in Bowland Forest High offer diverse natural features. You'll find numerous gritstone outcrops and boulders, such as those on Ward's Stone and Wolfhole Crag, which also attract climbers. Many summits, like Paddy's Pole Summit, Fair Snape Fell, feature trig points and cairns. The primary draw is the extensive panoramic views, often encompassing the Fylde coast, Morecambe Bay, the Lake District, and the Yorkshire Dales.

Pendle Hill, though just outside the AONB boundary, is the most iconic peak with significant historical ties. It is famously associated with the 17th-century Lancashire Witch Trials, making it a culturally rich destination. Nicky Nook also holds local legends and historical significance related to Viking settlers.

Beyond hiking the peaks themselves, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the Dunsop Bridge & River Hodder loop. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are dedicated trails such as the Gisburn Forest The 8 Red loop. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Bowland Forest High and MTB Trails around Bowland Forest High guide pages.

Wolfhole Crag, the third-highest summit at 527 meters, is renowned for its remote and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Totridge Fell also provides a sense of solitude despite its extensive panoramas, though it can feature boggy sections.

Ward's Stone offers views stretching to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and Snowdonia. Pendle Hill provides excellent views north into Bowland and over Lancashire. Fair Snape Fell and Parlick Fell, often walked together, boast sweeping panoramas of the Lancashire countryside, including the Fylde coast. Totridge Fell offers an extensive panorama of nearly all the main Bowland fells and distant views of the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

Longridge Fell, as the most southerly named 'fell' in England, is a unique geological feature known as a 'Cuesta.' It has a sharp drop on its northern side and a gentler southern slope, contributing to its superb views that can encompass the Fylde Coast, the Vale of Chipping, and even the Lake District on clear days.

When visiting Clougha Pike, be aware that dogs are generally not allowed due to grouse shooting and breeding activities. The gamekeeper frequently patrols the area. The ridgeline from Clougha Pike to Ward's Stone offers a great run and can be turned into a loop from local car parks.

Fair Snape Fell and Parlick Fell are often walked together, connected by a mile-long ridge known as 'the loveliest mile in Lancashire.' This path offers smooth, grassy terrain and sweeping views. Parlick's distinctive conical shape makes it a recognizable landmark, and both fells are popular spots for paragliders.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the summits, the sense of wildness and solitude, and the diverse hiking experiences available. The well-established footpaths and trails, along with the unique geological features and historical context of certain peaks, also contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.