- How long is the Lancashire's Hidden Heartland: Forest of Bowland and Ribble Valley route?
- This route takes 7 days taking in 6 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from Clitheroe to Clitheroe in Lancashire, England.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is May to October.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Easy-going. Easy-going and accessible for most fitness levels.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- Any self-driven vehicle works well for this route.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Mixed accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Relaxed — plenty of time to linger at each stop.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Scenic, Nature, Culture, Food & drink, Classic road trip.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Stock up at Cowman's or Booths before heading into Bowland. Petrol stations and shops are sparse in the villages ahead. The Hark to Bounty Inn is the only pub in the village. Book a room and dinner well in advance, especially in July and August. The Trough of Bowland road narrows to single-track beyond Dunsop Bridge. Use passing places and allow 45 minutes to Lancaster. Lancaster Castle tours run at set times. Book online before arriving; popular slots fill fast on summer weekends and bank holidays. Wilkinson's Cheese Shop in the village stocks local produce. The road back to Clitheroe via Longridge takes around 15 minutes. The Clitheroe rail line runs to Manchester Victoria in about 50 minutes, useful for returning a hire car or catching onward connections.