Top 5 Things to Do in Garstang: Lancashire's Hidden Gem

Nestled along the picturesque River Wyre and bordered by the breathtaking Forest of Bowland, Garstang, Lancashire, offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming attractions. Whether staying at Garstang Country Hotel or just passing through, this historic market town provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Here are the top five things to do during your visit to this Lancashire treasure, all conveniently located near quality accommodation in Garstang, Lancashire.

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1. Explore the Historic Lancaster Canal and Brock Bottom

The Lancaster Canal weaves its way through Garstang, offering one of the most serene and beautiful walking experiences in Lancashire. This historic waterway, often referred to as the "Black and White" canal, stretches for over 40 miles without a single lock, making it particularly special among Britain's canal network.

Walking along the towpath, you'll discover peaceful stretches with views of the surrounding countryside and glimpses of colourful narrowboats navigating the calm waters. The canal aqueduct over the River Wyre provides an impressive vantage point, with the structure itself being an engineering marvel dating back to 1797.

Just a short drive from Garstang Country Hotel and Golf, visitors should also make time to discover Brock Bottom, one of the area's hidden gems. This picturesque picnic site alongside the babbling River Brock offers charming riverside trails and fascinating old mill ruins. The peaceful setting, shaded by trees and surrounded by wildflowers in season, makes it perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a refreshing morning walk before returning to your hotel in Garstang for a delicious meal at the Bradbeer Restaurant.

For those wanting to explore further, several circular routes start from Garstang town centre, taking you along the canal, past Greenhalgh Castle ruins, and back via the River Wyre. The gentle pace of canal life offers a perfect antidote to busy modern schedules, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way, from kingfishers and herons to dragonflies hovering over lily pads.

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2. Conquer Nicky Nook for Panoramic Views

Despite its modest height of 215 meters (702 feet), Nicky Nook fell rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular views in Lancashire. This popular walking destination is accessible for most ability levels, making it perfect for families and casual walkers staying at Garstang Country Hotel and Golf.

From the summit, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across three countries on clear days. Look west over the Lancashire coastal plain towards Blackpool Tower and the Fylde Coast, north to the Lake District fells, and on exceptionally clear days, you might glimpse the Isle of Man and the Welsh mountains across the Ribble Estuary.

The circular walk from the village of Scorton, near Garstang Lancashire, takes you through varied landscapes including woodland paths, alongside a picturesque reservoir, and past bubbling streams. The relatively short route (approximately 4 miles) makes it perfect for a morning or afternoon excursion, leaving plenty of time to enjoy a round of golf at Garstang Golf course before returning to your comfortable accommodation in Garstang, Lancashire, for the evening.

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3. Visit Cobble Hey Farm & Gardens

For a family-friendly day out near your hotel in Garstang, Cobble Hey Farm & Gardens offers a delightful experience set in the beautiful Bowland Fells. This working farm has transformed areas once used for grazing sheep into vibrant gardens featuring various natural environments.

Visitors can explore the cottage garden, woodland paths, tranquil ponds, and formal parterre with its manicured box and yew hedges. The farm's commitment to conservation is evident in their work with the RSPB to improve habitats for nesting wading birds, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Garstang.

Children will particularly enjoy meeting the friendly farm animals, including rare breeds of sheep, cattle, pigs, and goats. Seasonal activities such as lamb feeding in spring add to the experience. After exploring the gardens and meeting the animals, relax in the tearoom with a selection of homemade treats, where they pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, many grown or reared on the farm itself.

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4. Discover Barton Grange Garden Centre

Much more than just a place to buy plants, the award-winning Barton Grange Garden Centre has earned its reputation as one of Lancashire's top visitor destinations. Located on the A6 between Preston and Garstang, this impressive site has been named Destination Garden Centre of the Year multiple times.

The garden centre oozes style and originality throughout, from its extensive plant areas (which feature a roof that closes when it rains so you can shop in all weather) to its impressive home décor department, professional cookshop, and gift shop. The stunning indoor displays include a wrought iron gazebo surrounded by colourful houseplants and award-winning seasonal displays that change throughout the year.

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5. Wander Through Garstang's Historic Centre

As the world's first Fairtrade Town, Garstang has a proud heritage of community spirit and ethical trading, which is reflected in its charming town centre. Market day (held on Thursdays) has been a tradition since 1310 when Edward II granted the town its market charter, and it continues to bring the High Street to life with stalls selling everything from local produce to crafts and household goods.

Take time to explore the historic buildings, including the Market Cross and the Old Town Hall, which reflect the town's long history. The Visit Garstang Centre in Cherestanc Square is worth stopping at to learn about local walks, events, and attractions in Garstang, Lancashire.

For those interested in local history, follow the Heritage Trail through the town, which guides you to points of interest, including Greenhalgh Castle's ruins. Built in 1490 by the first Earl of Derby, this historic ruin offers a glimpse into the area's fascinating past. Staff at Garstang Country Hotel can recommend the best routes through town and highlight seasonal events that might enhance your exploration of Garstang.

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Whether you're staying at Garstang Country Hotel for business or pleasure, enjoying a round at Garstang Golf, or just exploring the area for the day, these five attractions showcase the best of what this charming Lancashire town has to offer. From peaceful canal walks to panoramic fell views, working farms to world-class shopping, and a historic town centre, Garstang provides visitors with diverse experiences amid beautiful countryside settings. And when you've finished exploring, you can return to the comfort of your hotel in Garstang, where exceptional service and the picturesque setting beside the River Wyre provide the perfect end to your day's adventures in one of the most beautiful parts of Lancashire. Book your room here.

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