The 19 Most Amazing Peaks around Bowland Forest Low

The region offers several peaks with exceptional views. For instance, the Trig point at Longridge Fell summit provides panoramic vistas across the Fylde Coast and the Yorkshire Dales. From Parlick Fell summit, you can enjoy views of Pendle Hill and the Fylde Coast. Paddy's Pole Summit, Fair Snape Fell, being the highest point in the south-west Forest of Bowland, offers awesome views over Blackpool and inland towards Preston. Additionally, Wolfhole Crag provides amazing views over the Forest of Bowland AONB and the North Pennines.

Yes, several peaks offer routes suitable for families. For example, the path to Paddy's Pole Summit, Fair Snape Fell, is described as straightforward and accessible in dry weather, with a 10-year-old managing it easily. Parlick Fell summit is also considered a great hill for kids who enjoy a mountain, due to its conical shape and manageable ascent.

The terrain varies across the peaks. While some paths are straightforward, like parts of Fair Snape Fell, others can be quite boggy, especially after wet weather, as noted for Longridge Fell. Wolfhole Crag, while offering stunning views, can also have boggy ground. Generally, you can expect a mix of moorland, grassy ridges, and some rocky outcrops. Many routes are rated as intermediate difficulty, but there are easier options available.

Beyond hiking, the area around Bowland Forest Low offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy, moderate, and difficult options. For those who enjoy running, there are several running trails. Cyclists can explore a range of road cycling routes, from moderate to difficult, taking in scenic landscapes like the Trough of Bowland Pass.

Parking can sometimes be limited, especially at popular spots. For instance, visitors to Parlick Fell summit are advised to arrive early due to limited parking availability. It's always a good idea to check specific starting points for walks for parking information beforehand.

The best time to visit for hiking is generally during dry weather, as many paths can become surprisingly boggy after rain. Spring and summer offer longer daylight hours and generally milder conditions, making for more pleasant walks and clearer views. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Many trails in the Forest of Bowland are dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs on leads, especially in areas where livestock are present, as mentioned for the View of Pendle Hill section of the Ribble Way. Always be mindful of local signage and respect wildlife and farm animals.

Longridge Fell is notable as the most southerly fell in England. It is characterized by its long ridge and forested flanks, offering stunning panoramic views across the Fylde Coast, the Vale of Chipping, and even the Yorkshire Dales. Its unique cuesta formation also makes it a popular take-off point for hang-gliders and paragliders.

While the peaks themselves are natural and remote, the wider region of Bowland Forest Low and its surrounding villages offer amenities. For example, near the View of Pendle Hill, the village of Grindleton has pubs like the Buck Inn or the Duke of York. The nearby routes also mention starting points like 'The Inn at Whitewell', suggesting options for refreshments after your walk.

While Bowland Forest Low itself contains localized elevated areas, the highest point in the entire Forest of Bowland AONB is Ward's Stone, at 561m (1,841 ft), offering expansive views. Within the immediate vicinity of Bowland Forest Low, Paddy's Pole Summit, Fair Snape Fell, stands at 510m (1,670 ft) and is the highest point in the south-west area of the Forest of Bowland.

The region showcases interesting geological features. Wolfhole Crag is known for its spectacular gritstone rock formations. Ward's Stone, the highest point in the AONB, features large gritstone boulders. Clougha Pike, though not directly in Bowland Forest Low, is notable for its unique 'marginal notch channels,' which are geological features carved by meltwater from ancient glaciers.

A trip up Parlick Fell is often described as a 'short, sharp trip.' While specific times vary based on fitness and starting point, its conical shape and 432-meter height make it a relatively quick ascent, often combined with Fair Snape Fell for a longer walk. The one-mile stretch between Fair Snape Fell and Parlick is particularly enjoyable.