There's something about being in a forest that sparks creativity. Across the nation’s forests, artists have created inspiring works that help us see these special places in new ways.
From sculptures hidden among the trees to immersive sound experiences and award-winning architecture, there's plenty of creativity to discover.
Whether you're looking for your next day out or seeking inspiration for your own creative projects, these are some of our favourite places to experience art in the forest.
1. Beechenhurst, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Beechenhurst is home to one of the country’s best-known forest art experiences: the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail.
The trail has been welcoming visitors since 1986, with artworks inspired by the forest's wildlife, heritage and natural beauty. As you follow the winding trail, you'll discover sculptures that emerge from the forest and become part of the landscape around them.
For a different way to experience art at Beechenhurst, try The Secret Sounds of Trees soundwalk. Created by sound artist Jez Riley French, this self-guided audio experience reveals sounds from trees, insects, plants and soil that are usually beyond human hearing.
2. Grizedale Forest, Cumbria
Art and trees have gone hand in hand at Grizedale Forest for almost 50 years. Since 1977, artists from around the world have been creating sculptures throughout the forest, including The Lady of the Water (pictured).
You never quite know what you'll stumble across next, from striking contemporary works to sculptures that seem part of nature itself.
With beautiful Lake District views and artwork around almost every corner, each visit to Grizedale brings something new to discover.
3. Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
Artists have been helping tell the story of Dalby Forest for years. Contemporary artworks (such as the Nissen Hut by Rachel Whiteread) are dotted throughout the forest, each inspired by the landscape and carefully placed within it.
Some encourage moments of reflection, while others spark curiosity or invite you to see familiar woodland scenes differently. It's a beautiful place to pause and look a little closer at the world around you.
Visiting with young art fans?
Our Gruffalo Sculptures are a family favourite, any time of the year.
4. Kielder Forest, Northumberland
If you love art, architecture and big landscapes, Kielder Forest is well worth a visit.
It’s home to more than 20 artworks and architectural installations, from striking structures like The Nick (shown) to imaginative spaces and thought-provoking artworks, all designed in response to this unique place.
Together they create a trail of creativity through one of the nation’s most impressive forests.
5. Sutton Manor, St Helens, Merseyside
Standing proudly above a former colliery site which is now a young woodland and wildlife haven, The Dream is an impressive 20-metre sculpture that shows how art can help tell the story of a place.
Created by artist Jaume Plensa in 2009, the sculpture overlooks the surrounding landscape and reflects the area's rich industrial history while looking towards the future. The peaceful expression of the sculpture and its dramatic setting create a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
6. New Fancy, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Art, history and spectacular views come together at New Fancy in the Forest of Dean.
Alongside panoramic views across the forest, you'll find the Roll of Honour sculpture, a memorial to the miners and quarrymen of the Forest of Dean who lost their lives at work.
New Fancy is a place where creativity helps reveal the stories hidden under the landscape. The visitor trails on site include the Mine Trail, which further explores the centuries of mining history in the local area.
7. Silverhill Wood, Nottinghamshire
Silverhill Wood is proof that even the most unexpected places can inspire creativity.
Once the site of two collieries, the area has been transformed into a thriving woodland. At its highest point stands Testing for Gas, an impressive miner's memorial statue. It overlooks the landscape and celebrates the local communities whose lives were shaped by mining.
Located at one of the highest points in Nottinghamshire, the site of the statue offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Feeling inspired?
Art has a way of helping us notice things we might otherwise walk past. If these forest artworks have sparked your imagination, why not take your own creativity outdoors? Bring a camera on your next walk, fill a sketchbook with woodland scenes, write, paint or simply spend some time noticing the colours, textures and details around you.
Explore our Arts Map to find more sculptures, installations and creative projects in forests across England. You never know what inspiration you might find among the trees.
