The 12 Most Amazing Peaks around Chipping

The most popular peaks around Chipping, located within the Forest of Bowland, include Nicky Nook Summit, offering panoramic views towards the Lake District and Morecambe Bay. Another favorite is Trig point at Longridge Fell summit, known for its well-established footpaths and expansive views. Parlick Fell summit is also highly regarded for its distinctive shape and rewarding vistas over the Fylde plain.

The peaks around Chipping are primarily fells and moorlands within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can expect diverse scenery with woodlands, open moorland, and expansive panoramic views. From summits like Nicky Nook Summit, you might see the distant Lake District and Morecambe Bay on clear days. Paddy's Pole Summit, Fair Snape Fell, offers awesome views over Blackpool and out to sea, as well as inland over the Forest of Bowland.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Nicky Nook Summit is often considered a family-friendly walk. For more structured routes, you can explore the Easy hikes around Chipping guide, which includes routes like the 'Beacon Fell Descent – Beacon Fell Summit Trig Point loop' and the 'Chipping Farm Shop loop from Chipping'.

Besides hiking and walking, the area around Chipping's peaks offers opportunities for mountain biking and running. You can find various routes in the MTB Trails around Chipping guide and the Running Trails around Chipping guide. Parlick Fell is also a popular spot for paragliding and hang-gliding.

For more challenging experiences, consider routes that ascend higher fells. The Running Trails around Chipping guide features difficult routes such as the 'Fair Snape Fell – Parlick loop from Chipping' and the 'Totridge Fell loop from Chipping', which offer significant elevation gains and longer distances.

Visitors frequently highlight the stunning panoramic views, especially from summits like Trig point at Longridge Fell summit and Nicky Nook Summit. The well-established footpaths, diverse scenery of woodlands and moorlands, and the sense of accomplishment from reaching a summit are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the opportunity for leisurely walks amidst nature.

While the peaks themselves are primarily natural features, the region has historical significance as a market area. For example, near Chipping Campden (another 'Chipping' location in the Cotswolds), Dover's Hill is known for hosting the historic Cotswold Olimpick Games since 1612. In the Forest of Bowland, the fells offer a rich natural history, with features like trig points and cairns marking summits, such as Paddy's Pole Summit on Fair Snape Fell.

The fells and moorlands around Chipping can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary. Spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the landscape. In wet weather, paths can become surprisingly boggy, especially in wooded areas and on fells like Longridge Fell, so appropriate footwear is essential. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Access to the more remote fells in the Forest of Bowland can be challenging by public transport, often requiring a combination of bus services and walking. Chipping village itself has some bus connections. For specific routes, it's advisable to research local bus services to villages on the edge of the Forest of Bowland and plan your walk from there. Parking is often available near popular trailheads, but can be limited, especially for spots like Parlick Fell, so arriving early is recommended.

Many trails in the Forest of Bowland are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Some paths may have stiles that can be difficult for larger dogs. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep dogs on a lead where required, and clean up after them.

Chipping village itself offers local amenities, including cafes and pubs. For example, the Apple Store Cafe is mentioned as a nearby option for Nicky Nook Summit. Other villages on the edge of the Forest of Bowland will also have options for refreshments and accommodation. It's best to check specific village offerings based on your chosen starting point.

While popular spots like Nicky Nook and Longridge Fell can attract visitors, the vastness of the Forest of Bowland means you can often find quieter trails. Exploring lesser-known paths or visiting during off-peak times (weekdays, early mornings) can lead to a more solitary experience. Peaks like Dunsop Fell Trig Point, while offering good views, are noted as not having a very defined summit, which might mean fewer crowds compared to more prominent fells.