5th November 2020

As we head into new national restrictions from 5th November, our over-riding priority is for both visitors and the residents of the Forest of Bowland to remain safe; and to ensure we don’t place undue pressure on public highways, emergency services or key workers.

If possible, please do exercise from home; for those who are not able to get out, have a look at our 'At Home in Bowland' online resources or re-visit some of our online Festival Bowland events which have taken place during 2020.

If you are making a special journey into the Forest of Bowland and Pendle Hill area, please carefully consider your own wellbeing and that of the AONB's small communities: home to many vulnerable people and a working environment for farmers and land managers. Please consider the following:

  • Know the Countryside Code. Plan ahead, take a map and exercise within your limitations to keep pressure off local resources
  • As daylight hours are shorter and weather conditions are more severe be prepared and follow the latest 'Walking Safely' guidance on the Forest of Bowland website: https://www.forestofbowland.com/walking-information#walkingsafely
  • Avoid hotspots and busy spots – if you arrive at a site or car park that is already busy, please find an alternative
  • Leave no trace. Take all your litter home
  • All eateries, venues, attractions, accommodation, non-essential retail, museums and galleries will be closed until at least 2nd December. Some eateries will be operating a takeaway service, but please check with individual providers before visiting them.
  • Be kind and respect one another.

Full details of national restrictions can be found HERE and please continue to follow the general guidance:

  • HANDS - Wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds.
  • FACE - Wear a face covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult, and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
  • SPACE - Stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with where possible, or 1 metre with extra precautions in place (such as wearing face coverings or increasing ventilation indoors)

Stay home if you have any of the symptoms and get a test as soon as possible.