Wyre has a rich countryside landscape to enjoy, including the Forest of Bowland. You can explore the countryside through guided walks or by taking a self-guided walk. You will also find many activities taking place in the year which offer guided walks, nature spotting, and ways to get involved in helping the countryside and wildlife.
Wyre's countryside also hosts the annual Garstang Walking Festival, offering plenty different ways to experience Wyre's great outdoors.
The Forest of Bowland
The Forest of Bowland is a nationally protected landscape and is internationally important for its heather moorland, blanket bog, and rare birds.
It is managed by a partnership of landowners, farmers, voluntary organisations, local councils, and government agencies. They work to protect, conserve, and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of this special area.
In Wyre, there are many places in this area to visit such as Garstang, Scorton, Claughton, Calder Vale, Dolphinhome, and Bleasdale. When visiting these areas, you can experience the views, wildlife, and heritage of the Forest of Bowland.
For more details about the Forest of Bowland and to plan your trip to the area visit the Forest of Bowland website.
The countryside code
When visiting Wyre's countryside please follow the countryside code.
Respect other people
Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors.
Leave gates and property as you find them and follow paths, unless wider access is available.
Protect the natural environment
Leave no trace of your visit - take your littler home with you or bin it.
Keep dogs under control.
Enjoy the outdoors
Plan ahead and be prepared.
Follow advice and local signs.
More countryside code guidance can be found at Gov.uk - The Countryside Code.
Visiting the countryside with dogs
Due to Wyre being a sheep farming area, it is likely you will meet sheep when walking your dog. It is every dog’s instinct to chase, even if they are usually obedient and good with other animals. Being chased by dogs can cause serious damage to sheep, even if the dog doesn’t catch them. The stress of worrying about dogs can cause sheep to die, and pregnant ewes to miscarry their lambs.
For more advice about walking your dog around sheep visit the National Sheep Association website.
Wyres countryside is also an important breeding area for ground nesting birds such as lapwing, curlew, oyster catcher, and redshank. The breeding season, between 1 March - 31 July, is a particularly vulnerable time for ground nesting birds. Disturbed birds may be stopped from settling. If already nesting they will fly away from their nests, neglecting their eggs or chicks.
For more advice about walking your dog around birds visit the RSPB website
When out with your dog:
- Keep your dog on a lead at all times, especially when near farm animals.
- Keep a lookout for signs and notices informing you of the rules to be followed around livestock.