National Character Area 33 - Bowland Fringe and Pendle Hill : Key Characteristics

This is an undulating, rolling landscape, with local variation created by numerous river valleys and by the moorland outliers of Beacon Fell, Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill.

The Bowland Fells provide a dramatic backdrop to the north, with extensive views across the river valleys and Lancashire plain below.

On the northern edge of the area, drumlins are characteristic, while on the south, strong mounded outcrops or ‘reef knolls’ of limestone form distinct landscape features in the Ribble and Hodder valleys.

Semi-natural woodland, much of which is ancient, occurs in the main valley bottoms, side valleys and ridges, and is dominated by oak, ash and alder.

Small- to medium-sized fields are defined by hedgerows with mature hedgerow trees. Drystone walls are also common in some areas. Metal railings around estate boundaries and highway corners and junctions are characteristic of the southern and western edges of the NCA.

Land use is mainly permanent, improved pasture for livestock and dairy farming.

To the west, this NCA includes part of the Bowland Fells Special Protection Area (SPA), designated for its important populations of hen harrier, merlin and lesser black-backed gull.

There are species-rich hay meadows, including several that are nationally and internationally designated.

Rough grazing, rushy pasture and traditionally managed meadows at higher elevations are of national importance for breeding waders such as redshank, lapwing, curlew and snipe. These are also important habitats for breeding skylark.

There are numerous rivers of importance for many protected species, including bullheads, salmon, trout, eels, otters, kingfishers and dippers. There are also many brooks and small reservoirs.

There are many archaeological sites, particularly on the moorland fringes and in valleys where agriculture has been less intensive.

A network of winding, hedge-lined lanes connect small, often linear, villages, hamlets and scattered farmsteads, mostly in local stone. Traditional stone barns are commonplace on higher ground, and are of stone with slate or stone flag roofs.

Isolated country houses set in formal parkland are typical of the area, and may be enclosed by belts of woodland and estate fencing.

The relatively urban areas of Clitheroe, Bentham and Longridge provide a contrast to the rural feel of the area.