Sustainable tourism has been central to the Forest of Bowland management plan for the past 20 years, and Bowland has led the way through its dynamic tourism business partnership. While the principles of sustainable tourism remain relevant, today, there is a need for what is termed ‘regenerative tourism’ – an approach that fosters economic growth by reinvesting money into local communities, which creates jobs and strengthens local businesses. It also values and safeguards cultural heritage, promoting authentic experiences that respect local traditions and customs.
Regenerative tourism offers a way to further restore and enrich the area’s ecological, cultural and economic wellbeing. It’s about leaving the landscape better than we found it—by empowering local communities, deepening visitors’ understanding and care for the natural world and creating meaningful experiences that foster lasting connections with place.
The market towns of Clitheroe, Whalley, Lancaster, Settle and Bentham, together with high quality accommodation providers, offer strong opportunities to encourage visitors to explore further, shop locally and extend their stays. By increasing awareness of rail and bus services and strengthening links between these gateways and the wider Forest of Bowland, visitors can more easily choose low carbon, car free holidays. Enhancing connectivity through well designed active travel routes—such as walking and cycling links from stations and key hubs—helps make sustainable travel both practical and appealing, supporting local economies while reducing transport impacts on the National Landscape
