Tracks to Trails: Discover Bowland by Bus, Bike & Train
As summer approaches, now is the perfect time to plan a local adventure. The Forest of Bowland National Landscape team, in partnership with Community Rail Lancashire, recently launched two Eco Escapes itineraries — thoughtfully curated to showcase Bowland’s spectacular landscapes, rich heritage and welcoming hospitality, while championing low‑impact travel.
These new routes encourage visitors to leave the car behind and explore Bowland by public transport, with walking and cycling trails that link to bus and rail services.
With downloadable guides, transport information, and recommendations for places to stay and eat, Eco Escapes makes it easy to enjoy Bowland at your own pace — and sustainably.
Itinerary highlights include:
+ Chipping Circular Walk – Discover the historic mill village and its beautiful surrounding countryside.
+ Little Bowland Linear Walk – A 4‑mile walk from Chipping to Whitewell, featuring limestone outcrops, ancient woodland and river crossings.
+ Spring Wood Walk – A gentle woodland stroll near Whalley.
+ Pendle Hill Summit Routes – Challenging hikes from Whalley or Clitheroe, rewarded with breathtaking views.
+ Accessible Trail – A Tramper mobility scooter is available in Sabden, offering access to Churn Clough Reservoir.
+ Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail – A three‑day walking adventure through picturesque countryside.
Richard Watts, Chair of Community Rail Lancashire, said: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Forest of Bowland National Landscape on the Eco Escapes itineraries, based from Clitheroe and Whalley stations along the Clitheroe Line. This project promotes sustainable travel and encourages more people to discover this beautiful area by train, bus, bike and on foot.”
Hetty Byrne, Sustainable Tourism Officer for the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, added: “Eco Escapes is all about making it easier for people to get out and enjoy Bowland in a way that’s both rewarding and kind to the environment. Whether you’re hopping on a bus, catching a train, or setting off on foot or by bike, it’s a fantastic way to explore without the car and to connect more deeply with the landscape, wildlife and local businesses.”
New and improved bus connections — including Route 11 — make exploring the Hodder Valley easier than ever, linking circular and linear walks through places such as Slaidburn, Dunsop Bridge, Whitewell, Wigglesworth, Hurst Green and Chipping.
Explore these itineraries — plus 12 more — and download your routes at: www.ecoescapes.org.uk
Funded by the Community Rail Network and the DfT Community Rail Development Fund, the itineraries feature fully mapped walking and cycling routes, accessible by public transport. They are available to download as PDFs or to follow via GPS apps on your smartphone.
