THE Forest of Bowland National Landscape is celebrating the beauty of its landscape with a photography exhibition in Settle.

Formerly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), it gained its special status in February, 1964.

The 'Diamonds in the Landscape' exhibition at The Folly is part of its 60th anniversary celebrations and is a return to the Settle museum, where it also ran an exhibition marking its golden, 50 year, anniversary.

Covering 800 square kilometres or 312 square miles, and encompassing some of Lancashire and North Yorkshire's loveliest scenery, Bowland is often referred to as a hidden gem.

The area's special qualities are encapsulated in Diamonds in the Landscape; an exhibition of 30 images, all of which were chosen from entries submitted to the Forest of Bowland photography competition during autumn 2023.

From far-reaching moorland vistas and stunning wildlife shots to majestic woodlands and atmospheric pastoral scenes, the talented photographers have perfectly captured the variety and beauty of the Bowland landscape.

Following its run in Clitheroe, the exhibition has now moved to The Folly in Settle.

Entry to the museum is free and the photographs will be on display from Saturday May 25 until Saturday June 29.

Caitlin Greenwood, heritage development officer at The Folly, said: "We are delighted to host Diamonds in the Landscape at The Folly and I congratulate all the photographers featured. Their spectacular photos show the beauty and diversity of the Forest of Bowland and they should be very proud of their achievement.”

Project Officer with the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, Sandra Silk, added: "We celebrated our golden anniversary with an exhibition at The Folly, so we're thrilled to be back in this wonderful space once again. We hope these photographs will encourage visitors to enjoy and explore the wonderful landscapes close by."

The Forest of Bowland National Landscape is one of seven in the North of England, including the Howardian Hills, Nidderdale, North Pennines and Solway Coast.

National Landscape Partnerships own no land, so their work is delivered by convening strong networks with landowners, farmers and partner organisations, working together to plan projects, and secure funding to deliver them.

Opening times for The Folly, home to the Museum of North Craven Life, are available at: www.thefolly.org.uk or by telephoning 01729 825185.