Nothing beats heading out on a long walk through the countryside at this time of year - and it’s even better if a cosy pub meal is involved. It can be tempting to stay inside as the weather turns cooler, but it’s well worth wrapping up warm and venturing out into the great outdoors and seeing what there is to explore on our doorstep.
Only an hour’s drive away from Greater Manchester is the stunning Forest of Bowland, an area of outstanding natural beauty with forests, hills and moorland. This unspoilt stretch of Lancashire countryside has miles of walks you can do, taking in the incredible surroundings.
There’s a circular walk you can follow which allows you to visit two of the area’s charming villages: Downham and Chatburn. Along the way you will pass through breath taking countryside and enjoy the views from Worsaw Hill.
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The village of Downham is a great starting point for exploring the area with a free car park for visitors. Downham itself is worth a visit in its own right as it is one of the most magical villages in the area.
As you walk around the village you’ll notice that there’s minimal road signs, no overhead lines and not a TV satellite in sight. Downham feels like it’s completely frozen in time - and that’s partly because it is.
The village has been in the ownership of the Assheton family for more than 500 years which has enabled it to maintain its appearance of being untouched by modern life. It’s even been used as a filming location due to how well preserved it is.
Heading out of the village to the south west, you’ll find Worsaw Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It’s an easier alternative to the famous Pendle Hill, which dominates the landscape and can be seen from miles around.
From Worsaw Hill walk north and after carefully crossing the A59 you can pick up Kayley Lane which will take you into Chatburn. Although less traditional than Downham, Chatburn is still a charming village with two pubs to choose from for a pit stop before you return to Downham.
There’s the Brown Cow which has a cosy interior and serves a range of tasty dishes. Or for a refreshing drink try the Black Bull Inn. Once you’ve refuelled leave Chatburn via Downham Road, veering off through the countryside along paths which lead back to Downham.
This circular route is approximately five miles long and takes around three hours to do.
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