Forestry England’s top ten heatwave havens: come and cool off in the nation’s forests

30 June 2026

Forestry England’s top ten heatwave havens: come and cool off in the nation’s forests

With England summers getting hotter and heatwaves becoming more frequent, the search is on for cool, quiet places. While beaches and beauty spots can become crowded in the sun, Forestry England is encouraging people to escape both the heat and the crowds in the calming shade of the nation’s forests. Come and cool down in the soothing woodland cover of Forestry England’s top ten heatwave havens. 

With warmer conditions becoming a regular feature of British summers, forests and woodlands offer a naturally cooler alternative, where dense tree canopies help keep temperatures down and provide welcome shade for both people and wildlife. 

Stepping into a glade of tall trees on a hot day can feel like entering a naturally air-conditioned space. Tree canopies, as well as being beautiful to look up into, play a vital role in keeping temperatures lower and providing much-needed shade for visitors and wildlife alike. 

Across the country, everyone lives within an hour’s drive of one of the nation’s 1,500 forests, making them an easy escape when temperatures rise, whether for a gentle walk, a moment of calm, or a relaxed picnic. Remember that during periods of hot, dry weather the risk of wildfires is high, and disposable or portable BBQs are not permitted in any of the nation’s forests. Help reduce wildfire risk by bringing a picnic of chilled food, plenty of water, and sun protection. 

Check out Forestry England’s top 10 heatwave havens: 

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire 

Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, Westonbirt offers a stunning 240 hectare setting to escape under the cool of some majestic trees. Home to 2,500 different species from the far corners of the world and five national tree collections, the arboretum boasts meandering walkways and plenty of quiet and shaded spots to sit and relax on a hot summer’s day. Feel free to bring a picnic or stop by the cafe or restaurant for refreshments. 

Beechenhurst, Forest of Dean, Coleford, Gloucestershire 

With plenty of picnic spots, a spacious lawn, shaded benches in the trees and a wonderful café, Beechenhurst is a beautiful destination on a hot day. Experience the jaw-dropping Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail and keep your eyes peeled for a giant stained-glass window hanging amongst the trees. The sculptures on the trail are inspired by the Forest of Dean’s unique landscape and heritage.  

Haldon Forest Park, Devon 

With 1,400 hectares of woodland just 15 minutes from Exeter and Newton Abbot, Haldon Forest Park offers shade galore and plenty of space to keep cool when the heat is building. And on days when the beach is simply too scorching, there are plenty of shady ways to have fun and entertain children including the Room on the Broom activity trail, walking trails and calm picnic spots throughout the forest. 

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Kent 

Just a short walk from the car park and you will be immersed into the largest pinetum in the world, a globally important collection of conifers including a magnificent stand of redwoods. During the summer, the tree team mow routes off the beaten track under the shade of towering canopies, taking you to places you may not normally explore. With a picnic in tow from Bedgebury Cafe, seek out your new favourite shady sanctuary here.  

Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire 

Stretching over 3,500 hectares, Dalby Forest has shady space galore and offers cool and tranquil strolls and picnic spots on a hot day. With over 13 walking trails to choose from, many under the tree canopy amidst deep shades of green, you’re sure to cool down and relax during a summer visit. The visitor centre cafe offers plenty of refreshment and is the perfect place for a stop.  

Jeskyns Community Woodland, near Cobham, Kent 

Home to 145 hectares of newly planted woodlands, meadows and orchards, this beautiful location is not far from Dartford in Kent and offers activity trails, shaded walks and even a spot for the dogs to paddle. Visiting with little ones? Don't miss the Fairy and Elf Village where the kids can explore Mushroom Manor and The Old Boot Inn, whilst you enjoy a cool drink from the cafe nearby. 

Alice Holt Forest, near Farnham, Hampshire 

Alice Holt Forest has 2.4 miles of scenic woodland and mature pine forest - perfect for cooling down on a summer's day. And with scenic walking trails, bike hire, a giant marble run, Go Ape Tree Top adventure course plus picnic areas on offer, you certainly won't be short of things to do. Be sure to check the events page to see what's going on.   

Delamere Forest, Frodsham, Cheshire 

Just an hour's train journey from Manchester, Delamere Forest is an oasis in the summer. Offering beautiful views of Blakemere Lake and quiet shaded spots for a walk or cycle, this is the perfect spot to spend a sunny day out. Remember to bring lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic spots you’ll find in the forest. Venture away from the visitor centre on the Old Pale trail or hire bikes and explore the forest on two wheels – you’ll love the breeze as you cycle along! 

Fineshade Woods, Fineshade, Northamptonshire 

Nestled between Corby and Stamford in the Midlands and just a short drive from the A1, Fineshade Woods is the perfect place to enjoy a day outdoors. With plenty of shady spots beneath old oak trees and stately scots pine, it’s a cool and peaceful retreat on a warm day. The forest is teeming with wildlife – keep an eye out for dragonflies, butterflies, and even deer. Look up and you might spot red kites or buzzards soaring overhead. After your woodland adventure, stop by Grounds Café to cool down with a delicious ice cream – and don’t worry, there’s even a homemade dog-friendly version for your four-legged friend!  

Hamsterley Forest, Bishop Auckland, County Durham 

With picturesque woodlands that sprawl along a sheltered valley, Hamsterley Forest is the perfect spot for a day out with friends and family. There's something to keep all members of your group busy all day including some wonderful opportunities for outdoor children's play! Kick your shoes off and cool down on a hot day with a paddle by the river. 

As you enjoy the cool and shade of the nation’s forests when you visit to beat the heat, remember you can invest in Forestry England membership to unlock the opportunity to explore in every season. Your membership will support our work caring for the forests we all love meaning these wonderful places will flourish in the decades ahead.