Trough of Bowland

Valley in Lancashire Lancaster

England

Trough of Bowland

Autumn colours In a strip of woodland alongside the River Marshaw to the west of the Forest of Bowland. — Autumn colours Credit: Oliver Dixon

The Trough of Bowland is a picturesque valley located in the county of Lancashire, England. It is nestled within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The valley is situated between the high fells of the Bowland Forest and the lower agricultural land of the Lancashire plain.

The Trough of Bowland is known for its rugged, unspoiled landscape and diverse wildlife. Its unique geology, with its steep-sided hills and deep valleys, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to a variety of habitats, including heather moorland, ancient woodlands, and meandering rivers.

The valley is crossed by the Trough Road, a scenic route that winds its way through the heart of the area. The road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with numerous stopping points and walking trails along the way. Visitors can explore the area on foot, taking in the stunning vistas and discovering hidden gems such as the Jubilee Tower, a Grade II listed monument that stands atop one of the hills.

The Trough of Bowland is also a haven for wildlife, with many rare and protected species calling it home. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including peregrine falcons, merlins, and hen harriers. Red deer, roe deer, and wild boar can often be spotted roaming the hillsides.

Overall, the Trough of Bowland is a true natural gem, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Lancashire countryside.

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Trough of Bowland Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.972419/-2.5770248 or Grid Reference SD6253. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Autumn colours

In a strip of woodland alongside the River Marshaw to the west of the Forest of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon

Fallen tree

In a strip of woodland alongside the River Marshaw Wyre to the west of the Forest of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon

River Marshaw Wyre

In a strip of woodland alongside the river to the west of the Forest of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon

River Marshaw Wyre

In a strip of woodland alongside the river to the west of the Forest of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon

Trough Bridge

Where the road from the Trough of Bowland crosses the River Marshaw Wyre. Trough Brook enters the river from the right.

Oliver Dixon

Cyclists' memorials at the Trough of Bowland

About the year 2000 give or take a year, I cycled up to the Trough of Bowland to witness the Tour of Britain passing through. Amongst the many cyclists assembled there, I witnessed a small group intent on inaugurating this memorial stone. It never occurred to me to photograph this event (it was of course before Geograph days) and indeed I had no idea of the significance of the event. This understated memorial reads Bill Bradley, Southport CC, 1933-1997 International Racing Cyclist Tour of Britain winner 1959 and 1960 He loved to ride through the area An even more modest memorial stone has subsequently been added to the left of the original memorial. It reads: Legendary Cyclist Jack Thompson 1912-2003 Up until 2010, the second stone rested on top of the original - see SD6253 : Cyclists' memorials, Trough of Bowland, but by 2012 it had been moved to the side SD6253 : Memorial stones, Trough of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon

Cyclists' memorials at the Trough of Bowland

Just visible above the low wall are the understated memorials to two distinguished cyclists. For details, see SD6253 : Cyclists' memorials at the Trough of Bowland.

Oliver Dixon