For the month of June, how about a turn around Stocks Reservoir, located at Gisburn Forest. This 8 mile moderate walk circles the reservoir with views of the water and the wild forest of Bowland landscapes.

Where to wander this month: Stocks Reservoir

The details: 

Distance:  8 miles ( 13km) circular

Approx. Time: 3 – 4 hours

Terrain: Mostly fields and paths, historic trackways. Moderate gradients.

Important info:  Please take care on roads and access tracks. It is likely that livestock, including cattle, will be encountered along this route. Remember to follow the countryside code and to prepare for all weather conditions.

The route: The route starts from the Stocks Reservoir Car Park (BB7 4TS), which is a 28 minute drive from Riverside. There are Wildlife hides along the first section where you can see some of the forest’s extensive wildlife.  There are toilets and a cafe nearby at Gisburn Forest Hub.

Grab your walking boots and view the route here.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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If you go down in the woods today, you’re sure of a blue surprise – late April and the start of May is the perfect time for woodland walks filled with carpets of bluebells! 

Where to wander this month: Local Bluebell walks 

The details: 

There are a number of stunning walks nearby that feature stunning carpets of bluebells through the end of April and start of May.

The routes:

Oxenber Woods – A firm favourite with the staff at Riverside, Oxenber Woods between Austwick & Feizor feature a stunning display of bluebells each year, stretching as far as the eye can see.

Roeburndale Woods – One for the more seasoned hiker, this steep valley loop takes in some of the most important areas of ancient semi-natural woodland in Lancashire.

Bowtham Wood loop from Bentham – Part of the heritage trail that starts just outside of the park entrance, this 5 mile loop follows the river Wenning.

Rigmaden Bluebells – This moderate walk is a favourite of Bentham Footpath Group, even if you miss the peak of bluebell season, this still promises to be a nice walk.

Walk maps for these walks and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the routes and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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For the month of December, discover the natural oasis in the heart of Skipton – an ancient, beautiful woodland that gave rise to a castle!

Where to wander this month: Skipton Castle Woods 

The details: 

River valley route: This family friendly stroll is 1 mile and takes approximately 1 hour.

Upper paths extension: Extend the river valley route by exploring the upper level paths.

Earl of Thanet Trail: An enjoyable and sometimes strenuous loop walk taking in the industrial history of the woods. This loop is 2.5 miles and takes approx. 2 hours.

Terrain: A mixture of mostly wide surfaced paths, some narrow sections, some uneven terrain, bridges/steps/steep slopes depending on which route is taken, please consult the map before starting.

Important info:  Please take care as the woodland sections can be muddy after rainfall.  Remember to prepare for all weather conditions.

The route: There are multiple starting points however the main starting point can be found near the castle itself, which is a 46 minute drive from Riverside. A large car park can be found behind the nearby Town Hall, along with toilets and refreshment options.

Grab your walking boots and view the route here.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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For the month of October, a walk that’s right on our doorstep, the High Bentham Circular! This walk takes in lovely scenery along the valley of the River Wenning, and provides views south to the Forest of Bowland fells, and the hills of the Yorkshire Dales to the North. This is based on sections of the Bentham Heritage Trail.

Where to wander this month: High Bentham Circular 

The details: 

Distance:  5 miles ( 8.04km) circular

Approx. Time: 3 hours

Terrain: Roads, tracks, fields, stiles, gates, cattle grids. Some muddy slopes and boggy areas. Some stiles and bridges may be slippery after wet weather.

Important info:  Please take care on roads and access tracks. It is likely that livestock, including cattle, will be encountered along this route. Remember to follow the countryside code and to prepare for all weather conditions.

The route: The route starts up in the village, on the main street and goes for 2.5 miles before crossing the railway and river Wenning (by road), and returning you back to the village (or the entrance to the caravan park if you are staying with us).

Grab your walking boots and view the route here.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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If you’re planning a stay with a touring caravan or motorhome, understanding the different pitch types can help you choose the perfect match.

Riverside Caravan Park offers three distinct pitch styles that cater to a range of preferences and needs:

1. Level Grass Pitches

Simple, fully grassy, and well-drained, these pitches provide a straightforward and affordable option. Ideal for all accommodation options in dry conditions, these pitches include electricity and TV hook-up points, and there’s plenty of room for awnings and seating.

2. Hardstanding Pitches

These pitches feature a tarmac pitching surface and come equipped with electric and TV hook-ups. Like their grass counterparts, they offer ample space for awnings and seating on a spacious, adjacent gravel area.

3. Fully Serviced Hardstanding Pitches

This is the most feature-rich option available. In addition to hardstanding, these pitches include electric and TV hook-up points, a water standpipe, and a grey waste disposal connection. Plus, they provide adjacent gravel space ideal for awnings or outdoor seating.

Why pick Riverside Caravan Park for your next touring holiday?

Our holiday home and touring park is nestled in the valley of the River Wenning. It is only a short, safe walk from the village of High Bentham.

As a gateway town, High Bentham benefits for being close to the Forest of Bowland National Landscape  and the Yorkshire Dales . It is also only a stone’s throw from the Lake District, but without the crowds and higher price point.

Our family run park offers a great family friends base. It’s equally as enjoyable for couples to enjoy outside of the peak holiday periods, when it is peaceful and tranquil.

Our affordable touring prices, which you can view here, offer value for money with our award-winning facilities block and complementary wi-fi.

Find out more for yourself here.

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 But today, we have some big news…

We’re officially Motorhome Matt Approved!

That’s right, Matt, the UK’s go-to voice in the motorhome world, has chosen us as one of his handpicked, trusted suppliers. We’re joining a list of some of the best names in the industry, and we couldn’t be prouder! 

But don’t just take our word for it… Matt himself came to experience what we have to offer in person. And after his stay? Well, let’s just say he now knows why so many of you keep coming back.

“Wow, just wow! What a site and a great experience. One of the cleanest, most organised campsites I have ever stayed on (and, I’ve stayed on a few). The site reminded me of some of the best sites in Europe. Loads of space, big flat pitches and great facilities. Even underfloor heating in the loos and background music! 

Then, there is the surrounding area. We had never explored the Forest of Bowland before, and it did not disappoint. In every direction from Riverside is an amazing drive through some of England’s best scenery. We will certainly be back. If you have not explored this area, then you must. And Riverside is perfectly placed as a base.” 

Now it’s your turn to see what all the fuss is about. Whether you’re craving a last-minute break or planning ahead for next season, we’ve got you covered with some fantastic offers waiting just for you.

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For the month of September, a walk through some of the sprawling heather moorland, rocky outcrops and sheltered valleys that make up Lancaster’s share of the Forest of Bowland. There’s some magnificent, far reaching views to top it all off!

Where to wander this month: Birk Bank & Baines Crag

The details: 

Distance: 4.7 miles ( 7.5km) circular

Approx. Time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Terrain: Some steep sections but mainly level walking. One very rough section and some wet patches but mostly easy underfoot.

Important info:  Remember to follow the countryside code and to prepare for all weather conditions. Unfortunately dogs are not permitted on the access land in the first half of this walk.

The route: The route starts at Birk Bank Car park on Rigg Lane, Quernmore. This is a circular route taking you through a variety of landscapes. There are no public toilets or refreshments en-route so please be mindful of this.

Grab your walking boots and view the route here.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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For the month of July, why not try this undulating walk from Hawes to Sedbusk, via Hardraw, where you can make a small detour and visit the famous Hardraw Force waterfall. The route can be quite strenuous in places.

Where to wander this month: Hawes to Sedbusk 

The details: 

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5 km) circular

Approx. Time: a minimum of 1.5 hours

Terrain: fields, tracks, roads, some ladder stiles and gates. Parts of the route can boggy when wet.

Important info:  Remember to follow the countryside code and to prepare for all weather conditions. Dogs must be kept on a lead when crossing farmland.

The route:

The route starts in Hawes from the Hawes National Park Centre Car Park (DL8 3NT).    It is a 40 minute drive to the start of the walk from Riverside. There are toilets available in the car park at the beginning, and plenty of pubs, shops & Cafes in Hawes.

Grab your walking boots and view the route here.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception and you can view all of our other walk recommendations here.

Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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For May, we are again letting you know about 4 walks all in the same area, Aysgarth falls and Freeholders Woods, which you can enjoy separately or combine to take in more of the fabulous scenery.  If you enjoy walks in the Yorkshire Dales, they now have a free handy app with over 40 walks with offline mapping so you can track the walk even if there is no mobile phone signal.

The routes:

Lower and Middle Falls: 1 mile (1.6km), approx. 40 minutes. The blue route on the map following paths through Freeholders woods taking in the viewpoints for the lower falls and middle falls.

Upper Falls: 1/2 mile (0.8km), approx. 30 minutes. The purple route on the map meanders through the woods towards the Upper falls.

Woodland Walk: 1 mile (1.6km), approx. 30 minutes. The red route takes you on a looped stroll through ancient woodland.

Countryside Walk: 2.7 miles (4.3km), approx. 1.5 hours. The black route takes in the middle and lower falls before heading out of the wood across farmland offering stunning views along the valley towards Bolton castle. You eventually head back towards Freeholder’s Wood and the car park.

Terrain: Ranging from woodland paths to fields and lanes depending on your choice of route. You will follow hard paths and grass tracks.  Please be aware that it can be muddy and slippery in wet weather and some stiles can be a little difficult, so sensible footwear is advised. Grab your walking boots and view the route here

Please make sure to follow the countryside code, leaving gates how you find them, and keeping dogs on a lead near livestock and nesting bird areas.

Walk info:

It will take you around 57 minutes to drive to the start of this route. There are two car parks, the Aysgarth Falls Yorkshire Dales National Park Visitor Centre DL8 3TH and Aysgarth Falls car park DL8 3SR.

There are toilets in the National park car park and refreshments are available at both.  Why not treat yourself to a pre or post walk treat, or head into Hawes on your way back to Riverside where popular favourites are the Wensleydale Pantry, the Chippie Hawes and the Wensleydale Creamery.

Walk maps for this walk and many others can be found in our park reception . Let us know if you’ve enjoyed the route and please do share your snaps on our social media pages so others can be inspired.

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However, it is also important that you spend your money wisely to avoid disappointment from what should be a wonderful occasion.

We’ve put together some handy hints to help you consider what is important during the purchasing process. As a family business, we’re passionate about positive purchasing, keen to ensure our prospective buyers are making a purchase that is truly right for them.

Place: Whilst a comfy bed and spacious en-suite are no doubt important, its key to find a park that is a realistic and enjoyable journey away from your residential home. We ask our customers to think about the time of day they’ll be travelling, such as after work on a Friday or on a Tuesday morning, as this could impact their journey time.

It’s also important that the location of your holiday home is also in an area that offers you the opportunity to enjoy your favourite past times when you’re on holiday. Whether you don’t want to leave the park or you want to be able to explore on foot or two wheels, you need to consider how easy this is to enjoy from your prospective park.

Price: It’s really important to consider your budget and not only for the purchase of the holiday home but for the annual costs associated with ownership. Buying a holiday home is an investment in your time, not a financial one. As with a car purchase, it is a depreciating asset and the return on investment is in the happy memories and quality time with loved ones enjoyed at your holiday home.

Annual costs include a pitch fee, which is the ground rent for having your holiday home on the park land. This cost includes the maintenance of the park, security and insurance provided by the park as well as some services such as wi-fi provision and, in some cases, water and business rates. There will also be the costs of your utilities to cover as well as your holiday home insurance. Park businesses will vary in how they charge for these elements so it’s important to consider this when comparing parks.

Paperwork: Buying a holiday caravan or lodge is a big financial commitment. It is important that customers understand exactly what they can expect for their money and this is often communicated through the use of a Licence and Purchase agreement. It is important the park you are purchasing from uses such agreements as part of the sale. As members of the BH&HPA, we use the model Purchase and Licence Agreements. These are designed to set out ownership terms and conditions, including how you can use your holiday caravan. It is key to consider the length of licence, which varies for 15 to 30+ years.

Park: Considering the top 3 points should help you decide which park is right for you. Ensure that the running costs are within your annual budget, and they offer to show you the necessary paperwork. If the park you like doesn’t meet these 3 needs then please continue searching.

Pitch: Once you’ve found your park, you can then choose a holiday home based on their pitch availability. The location you prefer on park may determine the size and layout of holiday home that will best meet your needs.

 You can find out more about the running costs at Riverside here and view the holiday homes we have available here. Our team are on hand to talk through these points and all associated costs with you when considering a holiday home on our park.

Further information on buying a holiday caravan can be found here.

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