Moors Valley Country Park and Forest

Visitor information

A family friendly country park and forest

Moors Valley is a joint venture between Dorset Council and Forestry England and the work we do here goes beyond the remit of most visitor attractions, including countryside management and forestry. With over 800 acres, it's a large site to look after and we always aim to balance the needs of our visitors with those of the environment, whist still providing our visitors with a great day out.

For full information on planning your visit and all the events and activities on offer, please visit the Moors Valley site. 

At a glance

Cafe is open 9am - 3.30pm
24/05/2022 13:57
Steam railway open at weekends
24/05/2022 13:57
Visitor centre and shop
24/05/2022 13:58
A digital illustration of the Gruffalo standing in the forest with bunting strung above him.

Gruffalo Party Trail at Moors Valley

The Gruffalo is celebrating his 25th birthday and to celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure. The interactive family trail features all sorts of party-themed activities and games, along with fun facts to teach you about life in the forest for the Gruffalo and other creatures.

Discover some amazing areas to explore, have fun in the woods on our play trail with its unique pieces of wooden play. You can climb inside a giant ‘Hawk’, wriggle through giant snakes in the ‘Snake Pit’, attempt the ‘Crocodile Crossing’ and balance on the fallen forest of ‘Timber’.

This is the most popular route in the forest where children love to discover the play structures in the woods whilst stopping to create their own dens along the way. Visitors return again and again to find their favourite ones to play on.

From those just starting to balance on two wheels to those who want a singletrack experience, there's something for everyone at Moors Valley.

There are many miles of paths and tracks through Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. You are welcome to cycle on any of the gravel or tarmac paths however the best paths for cycling are waymarked.

To find out more about all of our sign posted routes please take a look at our main website (in partnership with East Dorest District Council). 

Go Ape locations in our forests are now open. Pre-booking is essential. More information is available on the Go Ape website.

Go Ape Forest Segways are the best fun you can have off-road, on two eco-friendly wheels, without having to pedal!  

You will receive training and get the chance to practice before you head out, with a safari guide, on our trails.  You will use a mixture of twisty trails and wide open, straight tracks on this circular, hour long adventure.

See further information and book direct with Go Ape.

Suspended above the forest floor you bounce, climb and jump to your hearts content.

All of the nets are completely enclosed - the jumbo hammock-like netting will keep you all as safe as treehouses and absolutely no specialist equipment is required.

All ages are welcome, meaning that Nets Adventure really can be a great family activity. 

The course starts close to the visitor centre. 

Nearby forests

A herd of deer in a glade in the forest

We are delighted that Bolderwood features as part of the Ancient Canopy dedicated to Her Majesty in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee in 2022.  Ancient Woodlands are cherished reminders of our living heritage, often referred to as “nature’s Crown Jewels”. We are proud to be part of this unique project, which aims to raise awareness of these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations. 

Sun shining through the trees in a pine forest

If you are looking for an ideal spot for picnicing, a walk in the woods or amazing views then Wilverley has it all. 

From the car park there's easy access into the adjoining woodland with a waymarked trail. The extensive grassy lawn offers valuable grazing for ponies and beyond the Forest lawn the heathland is home to many important bird species.

Boy counting tree rings on a very old tree that's been felled.

Blackwater arboretum is an idyllic setting with a stunning variety of beautiful trees from around the world. Inspired by the tree collection at this special place, a sensory sculpture trail complements the setting.

Explore Blackwater on two wheels by following the New Forest’s great network of cycle trails.

Three New Forest ponies standing on open grassland.

Enjoy the stunning views of the heathland and trees beyond. This is an ideal spot for all the family with good waymarked walking trail that pass by the nearby Ober Water stream.

Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England