The area of our origins is not only of family historical interest. For good reason the Forest of Bowland is designated an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, having:

• beautiful river valleys.
• wild open-access moorland.
• a large network of public footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths.
• spectacular bird-life, including the UK's main breeding area for the hen harrier.

In addition it has many attractions to provide an enjoyable holiday destination. Access from the M6 is easy and quick and there are regular bus services from Preston, Clitheroe and Lancaster.

Accommodation needs are well served by a variety of hotels, guest houses and B&Bs. Among the self-catering accommodations available Lower Gill Holiday Cottages are of particular interest to Swindlehursts, having date-stones bearing the family name. In addition there are numerous restaurants and country pubs, all of which offer well-cooked and -presented food, and some also offer accommodation. Click on The Forest of Bowland for more information.

There are several beautiful, historic and interesting villages and hamlets in the Forest.

• Slaidburn was home for hundreds of years to the Forest court, the rolls from which contain many references to Swindlehursts.
• Chipping (although technically outside the Forest) was the main market centre for the area, as its name states.
• Newton, between the two, is worth a stroll round.

Also in the Forest is Browsholme Hall, home for the last 600 years and more to the Parker family, whose name derives from their position of responsibility for management of the King's deer park. The Hall (pronounced Brewzum) is open to the public.

This part of England is home to the makers of the very best of Lancashire cheeses, in their glorious variety. These products are not just among the greatest of cheeses, when eaten with biscuits, salads or as a "ploughman's" platter, but are commended by the UK's top chefs as the best cooking cheeses in the world. Call in at any of these cheesemakers in the area for a tasting.

• Butlers' Farmhouse Cheeses
• Dewlay
• Greenfield's Dairy
• Mrs Kirkham's
• Singleton's.

The Lancashire coast holiday resorts of Blackpool, Southport and Morecambe are less than an hour's drive away from the Forest.

Geologically the area is a mixture of limestone and millstone grit. The resulting valley pastures produce beef and lamb cuts which are among Britain's best. The higher ground also provides a large supply of superb foodstuffs, including managed venison and game fowl. Visit the many farm shops for an epicurean treat.

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Those lucky people who are planning to visit the Forest of Bowland, but who need more help or advice, can email the Webmaster, who will be glad to oblige. Conducted or guided tours can also be arranged, with appropriate notice.