30 June 2026
Head to the nation’s forest for magical summer adventures with Forestry England
Families looking for affordable, fun-filled ways to enjoy the summer holidays need look no further than the nation’s forests. From magical trails to brand-new play experiences, Forestry England is offering a packed programme of activities for all ages this summer.
With the cost of living still a key consideration for many, the nation’s forests provide a budget-friendly way to create lasting memories outdoors, with miles of space to explore, play and relax together.
Room on the Broom comes to life
This summer, Forestry England is celebrating 25 years of Room on the Broom with special live appearances from the Witch at selected forests.
Families can enjoy enchanting meet-and-greet sessions alongside themed activities inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved story. No booking is required, but visitors are encouraged to arrive early as sessions are first come, first served.
The events complement the much-loved Room on the Broom trail, where children can help the Witch find her lost items and complete magical challenges along the way.
Cost: Free. Optional trail packs £4. Parking charges may apply, free parking for members.
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest unveils ‘Timber’ play experience
Come and try Timber, a brand-new play structure opening in time for the summer holidays.
Part of the popular play trail, Timber brings the story of sustainable forestry to life. Children can explore a Forester’s Cabin, sort seeds, tackle climbing structures and tunnels, and even take control of a giant wooden harvester complete with steering wheel, levers and a slide.
Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply, free parking for members.
Race through the woods at Forestry England Alice Holt’s Giant Marble Run
Families can enjoy a playful outdoor challenge at Forestry England Alice Holt Forest’s Giant Marble Run this summer.
Spanning six zones along a one-mile route, the trail invites children to guide their wooden marble through a series of exciting runs while exploring the forest.
It’s part adventure, part trail, and all about getting outdoors.
Cost. Wooden marbles cost £8 and can be reused on future visits. 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 summer. 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.
Stay a little longer with a forest escape
With the long summer nights, 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 summer. 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 summer 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.
A summer of affordable outdoor fun
With a mix of free activities, low-cost experiences and exciting new attractions, Forestry England forests offer the ideal setting for families to unwind, explore and reconnect with nature this summer.
For full event listings and to find your nearest forest, visit www.forestryengland.uk
Notes to Editor
- Forestry England manages and cares for the nation’s 1,500 woods and forests, with over 326 million visits in 2025/26. We use our scale and expertise to grow and care for the nation’s forests for this generation and the next. We are continuing the work we have already started to make the nation’s forests resilient to climate change and by 2026 we will:
- create at least 6,000 more hectares where we integrate wilding activities in our productive forests.
- increase the diversity of visitors to the nation’s forests and have one million hours of high-quality volunteer time given to the nation’s forests.
- plant at least 2,000 hectares of new, high-quality woodlands.
For more information visit forestryengland.uk. Forestry England is an agency of the Forestry Commission.
Media contact:
Forestry England Press Office | media@forestryengland.uk