Your Questions Answered

Why is there a charge for events?

There’s a small charge for most Bowland Festival events. This is to cover the costs of organising, running and publicising the event. We’ve done our best to keep these charges as low as possible.

What should I bring?

For all outdoor events you’ll need sturdy walking shoes or boots, extra warm clothing and waterproofs. Please also bring your own drinking water and, on hot sunny days, sun‑cream and sunglasses. The description of the event will tell you whether you need to bring anything else.

Many events will involve looking at wildlife and birds, so if you have binoculars it’s definitely worth bringing them.

If you don’t have the right clothing or equipment for the event, your leader may refuse to take you. This is for your own safety.

How fit do I have to be?

Most events, particularly those outdoors, require a reasonable level of fitness. All events will involve some walking, often up slopes, and some events involve all‑day hill-walking. Please take note of the grading information provided on the event.

Don’t overestimate your fitness as this may spoil the event for you and the rest of the group. All events are paced at the speed of the slowest members of the group.

Why can’t I bring my dog?

Most Bowland Festival events focus on discovering wildlife. Many are on private land and working farms. Dogs may disturb wildlife and farm animals, so they are not allowed at any of the events.

Do you ever cancel events at short notice?

We do our best to make sure this doesn’t happen, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. Our event leaders are experts in their area and it may not be possible to find a replacement if they have to pull out at short notice. Or the weather or ground conditions may make the event unsafe. In both cases we’ll give you a full refund.

Are the events suitable for children?

Most events are suitable for children over 8 years old accompanied by an adult. Event descriptions will indicate those which are not.

Events marked are particularly suitable for children, including those under 8 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all Bowland Festival events.

My friends have booked for an event, but it’s full and I can’t get a place. Can’t you fit just one more in?

Unfortunately not! Health and safety regulations mean that we have to keep groups within fixed numbers.

Are lunch and refreshments provided for long or all day events?

No, you will usually need to bring your own food and drink. Many walks set off from or finish near a pub or café, but you’ll probably need something to eat and drink in the middle of your walk too.

In some cases lunch will be available at extra cost. Please check when booking.

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