MAJOR tourism ‘hotspots’ are featured in a guide which anticipates a bumper 2014 for visitors to East Lancashire.

One of the ‘must see’ areas highlighted in the Welcome to Lancashire 2014 visitor guide is the Forest of Bowland, which celebrates 50 years since being designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in February.

The guide also hails nature attractions such as Brockholes reserve, near Samlesbury, and the wealth of museums, collections and historic mills and houses.

It is hoped it will attract visitors from across Britain, who might otherwise not know about what is on offer. Special events in 2014 are highlighted, such as Towneley Hall’s new natural history gallery and exhibition space which will open in Burnley in February.

Culinary highlights are also mentioned, such as The Northcote Cookery School from April with Northcote Manor’s Michelin chefs.

The Forest of Bowland is described in the guide as “distinctive landscape of high, open fells, steep-sided cloughs and rich, green lowlands”.

Tourism chiefs have organised The Festival of Bowland, a series of events throughout the year.

Marketing Lancashire, will offer an iPad version of the Welcome to Lancashire 2014 guide for the first time.

The guide will provide interaction and virtual experiences, with films from attractions and tourism businesses all over the county.

It will also show footage of days out in spas and hotels, as well as walking trails, cycle routes and physical challenges for the thrill-seeking visitor.