Head to the forest for some half-term fun!

13 May 2026 

Head to the forest for some half-term fun! 

Looking for the perfect half-term activity? Explore the natural wonders of your local Forestry England forest for a budget-friendly family day out packed with adventure. 

With so many ways to play, explore and relax, the nation’s forests offer something for everyone. And with the cost of living still front of mind for many families, the good news is you don’t have to spend a lot to make lasting memories outdoors. 

From imaginative play and wildlife trails to cycling, picnics and unique forest stays, here’s Forestry England’s round-up of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy this half-term. 

Room on the Broom trail 

Step into Julia Donaldson’s beloved story and enjoy this enchanting trail. Young explorers will help Witch find her lost hat, bow and wand, and collect magical ingredients to complete her spell. Add extra magic with a trail pack for just £4 (while stocks last). 

Cost:£4 per trail pack. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members. 

Pedal, play and explore on two wheels 

With over 2,500km of cycling trails and family-friendly off-road routes, the nation’s forests are the perfect destination for a family cycle this half-term. Discover green spaces, dedicated cycling trails, skills areas and beginner mountain bike trails perfect for starting your children on their cycling journey. You can even try Pedal and Play trails at selected forest locations, specially designed for younger riders to build off-road cycling skills! 

Cost:Free. Bike hire and parking charges may apply. Free parking for members. 

Discover the hidden power of trees 

At Forestry England’s Westonbirt, The National Arboretum families can discover the hidden superpowers of trees! Whether it be fire-resistant bark, or defence systems against pests and other creatures. Decide which tree power you would have! 

Cost: Free after paying admission to the arboretum.  

View ospreys  

The ospreys are back at Kielder Forest this half-term. Home to a thriving population of these magnificent birds of prey, the forest is one of the best places in England to spot nesting ospreys in the wild. Families may catch a glimpse of the birds soaring overhead or tending to their nests during a day out in the forest. For those unable to visit in person, Forestry England’s live osprey cam offers the chance to watch the action from home, with real-time views of ospreys raising their young high above the forest floor. 

Cost:Free, parking charges may apply.Free parking for members at Forestry England car parks. 

Stay a little longer with a forest escape 

With warmer weather, it’s time to gather your family, snuggle up in your sleeping bag, and enjoy the night sky at one of Forestry England’s campsites. With 14 locations across England, these campsites provide the perfect spot for an immersive holiday. Explore miles of paths and unique experiences right outside your tent. 

Cost: From £16 per night(2 adults, 2 children).Members receive a 10% discount.  

Try disc golf 

Disc golf offers a fantastic way to get your teens and tweens away from screens and into the forest this half-term. Players take aim and throw frisbee-style discs at fixed targets throughout the woodland course. Just like traditional golf, the player who completes the course with the fewest goes wins! It's cheap, fun, and lets you enjoy the outdoors while playing against friends and family. 

Cost: £3.50 per disc or £12 for 4. Member discounts available. Parking charges may apply, free parking for members. 

Discover The Gruffalo sculptures 

Enjoy a fun family day out this half-term as you search for the characters from Julia Donaldson's classic story, The Gruffalo, in the deep dark wood. 

Your children will love meeting Mouse, Owl, Fox, Snake and Squirrel as well as the Gruffalo and the Gruffalo's child!  

Cost:Free, parking charges may apply.Free parking for members. 

Walk, play and picnic your way through the forest 

From easy access trails and pushchair-friendly routes to gentle play trails and longer walks, there’s something for every family. 

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature, whether beside a stream, in a meadow or under the trees. 

Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply.Free parking for members. 

Play your way 

Let off steam in adventure play areas designed for all abilities. Forestry England continues to create inclusive play spaces so every child can play their way. 

From climbing and swinging to imaginative natural play, there’s something for everyone. 

Cost:Free. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members. 

Gruffalo orienteering 

Challenge your family to find hidden Gruffalo markers using a simple map. This fun navigation activity builds confidence and teamwork while exploring the forest. 

Cost: £1.50 per leaflet. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members. 

Feel Good Forest trails with WWF 

Reconnect with nature on these fun, interactive trails created with WWF for children aged 6-12. Learn how England’s forests compare to the Amazon rainforest and download a free activity pack to keep the fun going at home. 

Cost:Free. Parking charges may apply.Free parking for members. 

With adventure play, accessible trails, cycling, wildlife experiences and peaceful picnic spots, Forestry England forests offer the perfect mix of activity and relaxation this half-term. 

Visit www.forestryengland.uk for more information.