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field with rocks

As a former coal mine, Colliers Wood forms an interconnected area of woodlands and grassland surrounding Higher Folds. The various footpaths offer quite a lot of opportunity for exploration and discovery.

There has been recent planting near Cooling Lane which is now coming into fruition. From Queensway, there is access to an area once used by bird watchers.

Colliers Wood is located approximately ten miles west of Manchester. 

Shouldham Woods

Shouldham Woods is a peaceful, broadleaf woodland and provides a sanctuary for wildlife amid the fields.

As an undulating site on the edge of the fens with two healthy woodland walks, there are remnants of a historic spring on top of the hill. There is also a World War II rifle butt close to the entrance.

Hazey forest

Towering pines, tree-lined paths and an abundance of wildlife, West Bilney Wood has everything you need for an outing in the great outdoors. Loved by the locals for its natural beauty and source of escape, come and meander the public footpaths that circle the woodland and enjoy a sensory treat.

The area also boasts a significant amount of interesting heritage. See if you can find the flint "anvil-stone" that shows prehistoric activity!

Three wooden picnic benches in a forest clearing surrounded by trees

Great Hockham is the perfect place for an exciting outdoor adventure in a beautiful woodland setting.

A visit to Great Hockham will treat you with views of the unique landscape. See if you can spot the distinctive features, known as pingos, that were formed during the last Ice Age! 

Come and enjoy a picnic in the forest, walk amongst the trees on a choice of two waymarked trails or treat your four-legged friend to a forest visit. 

 

Desert Rats memorial at High Ash in Thetford forest

Located near Mundford in Thetford, you won't miss the Cromwell tank that marks the entrance to the forest. A must-see site for those interested in history, this tank is a memorial to the 7th Armoured Division, known as the Desert Rats, who were based here during World War II. 

Learn about High Ash's interesting historic background on the Desert Rats trail, which includes interpretation boards.

A dog sits in open space at Lynford Water

Lynford Water is an area of flooded gravel pits in the Wissey valley, which includes an area of sandy beach.

60,000 years ago it was a very different place: a chilly, open landscape with different wildlife and a population of Neanderthal humans, the evidence of which was found in an excavation in 2002.

Hybrid Bluebell close up

Home to foxes, deer, badgers and many woodland birds, Hagg Wood provides the perfect woodland visit for any wildlife enthusiast! At different times of the year you can hear the call of woodpeckers, wood pigeons and cuckoos. 

It's also a great place to spot bluebells in spring, as well as primroses, yellow pimpernel, wood anemone and dog violets, which you'll find growing along the woodland rides and clearings.

Children running woodland path, Whinlatter

Part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, located east of Horsham, St Leonard's Forest isn't short of fascinating history. 

Legend has it that a French hermit once lived here in the sixth century. He famously fought and killed a dragon in the forest and it is from him, St Leonard, that the forest takes its name! 

Visit the forest to immerse yourself in the cultural history, discover rich wildlife and take a peaceful woodland walk. 

Sun bathing

The magnificent beeches lining the A134 at this site provide the setting for one of the most attractive picnic spots within the forest.

The splendour of the beech canopy affords an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

An open area next to the car park gives opportunities for those wishing to picnic or play during their stay. Here, heather and grasses add a splash of colour and interest for insects such as butterflies and bees, reminiscent of the former Breckland heaths.

Reservoir

Cogra Moss is a beautiful enclosed forest surrounding a reservoir which is now used by the Cockermouth Angling Association.

The walk up to the dam is along surfaced tracks. Beyond the dam a number of unsurfaced paths provide you with great access around the reservoir in a loop.

For the more adventurous, the walk up onto the top of Blake Fell is harder but provides fantastic views of the northern lake district fells, Scotland, the Solway Coast and Isle of Man.

Mildenhall Warren

Visit Mildenhall Warren and enjoy a peaceful walk where you'll find a wide range of wildlife. 

As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), there is also evidence of human habitation dating back 500,000 years and 700 years of rabbit warrening.

Santon Downham

Whether you are seeking a quiet stroll or wish to take in the natural beauty of the local area, Santon Downham is an idyllic part of Suffolk.

Much of the land here originally belonged to the Santon Downham estate, which was at one time owned by Charles Sloane (later Lord Cadogan).

King's Forest

Located near Bury St Edmunds, King's Forest was named to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V and Queen Mary.

Along with being home to fallow deer, the chalky soil supports a prolific flower population including Wild Thyme, Bird's Foot Trefoil and numerous butterflies, such as Dingy Skipper and Brown Argus - a joy for any nature lover at any time of the year.

Children running on muddy forest path in wellies

Whiteley Pastures is home to a variety of rare wildlife including a rich insect population. The woodlands are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest that we work to manage and protect. 

There are a range of gravel paths for you to follow that take you throughout the woodland and its natural features including areas of ancient woodland and ponds. 

mixed green tree tops

Managed in partnership with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust as a heathland restoration project, Tidenham Chase offers great walks and stunning views. 

From the car park follow sign posts to Offa's Dyke, the historic border between England and Wales, named after the Anglo-Saxon king who supposedly ordered it to be built. Also explore the Devil's pulpit, a scenic viewpoint with views of Tintern Abbey.

Grassy path alongside tall trees in the New Forest

Also known as the New Forest Showground and located between the quintessentially English towns of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, there is always something to do at New Park. The coast is under 10 miles away if you're up for a challenging walk, or go wildlife-spotting around the park for a shorter stroll.

This location hosts special events throughout the year and guests can wander the grounds of the nearby Manor Hotel at any time of the year. 

Keep Your Distance from livestock sign at Bolton's Bench

Walk up to the top of the hill at Bolton’s Bench and take a moment to let your mind wander amongst the magestic ancient yew trees. You'll also be treated to picturesque views of the heathland, ancient woodlands and grassy lawns that make the New Forest so special. 

Butterfly on leaf

Delve into Bernwood Forest's historic past with a walk around this rich woodland, located on the outskirts of Oxford.

Made up of Shabbington and Waterperry Wood, Bernwood Forest was once part of The Royal Hunting Forest of Bernwood and received royal protection for over 700 years! The Bernwood Jubilee Way, part of the project to reinforce the identity of the hunting forest, runs through a section of the wood on its 61 mile journey within the Ancient Forest Boundary.

Dark skies brightened by a clear rainbow over green broadleaf trees

Found within the Northumberland National Park, just north of the village of Alwinton, Kidland Forest's mosaic of trees is the perfect setting for a forest adventure. Unwind under the blanket of spruce, pine and larch while taking in the glorious views and peaceful sounds of the River Alwin. 

Kidland Forest is a designated Red Squirrel Reserve and also houses Memmerkirk Chapel, a Scheduled Ancient Monument which are the remains of a chapel dating from the 14th to 17th century. 

Rolling hills with shades of green and brown on a sunny day

Explore the great network of public footpaths at Harbottle or venture to the ancient Drake Stone to experience the mythical atmosphere and stunning views.

small un-surfaced trail winding through dark autumnal trees to lake in the distance

With two nearby walking trails and a picnic area, Sidwood is at the heart of this delightful part of Kielder Forest, just two miles from the village of Greenhaugh.

unsurfaced forest clearing

Nestled adjacent to the River Eden between Carlisle and Penrith, Coombs Wood is a natural sanctuary just waiting to be explored on foot. 

White pony within rust orange shrubs

Tilery Road is named after a historic Victorian brick and tile works. From the car park there's easy access following the cycle route into Pignall Hill, this is one of the largest collections of inclosure woodlands in the New Forest. 

The extensive grassy lawn offers valuable grazing for ponies. Ponies are often referred to as the ‘architects’ of the New Forest. Please don't feed them and keep your distance.

Wooden gate opening on to sales yard

A noted historic New Forest landmark, this sale yard is used by the Commoners to sell their ponies by auction. Commoners are people who occupy land to which Rights of Common attach. This includes the right to graze stock on the open forest. It has been a way of life in the New Forest since medieval times.

Eyeworth Pond

Walk around the man-made gunpowder mill pond or take a walk through the woodland. Keep an eye out for the old black post box near the entrance to Fritham car park, there for the workers of the mill. Wander through the woodlands full of Roman remains.

Fritham is a small village with the village green at it's heart. Visit the pub, named after the ancient oak opposite (over 1000 years old), or join the cycle trail network and ride over to Ogdens.

Grassy path running through tall trees in the forest on a sunny day

Just south of the north Devon coastline, Meddon Plantation is nestled within the rolling hills of the English countryside.

Popular with local dog walkers, take a break from your everyday stresses and escape to the great outdoors at Meddon. Walk along grassy open paths, take a moment to pause and listen to the gentle swish of the trees, and see if you can spot any UFO's... Meddon Plantation is home to some speculation around UFO sightings. Why not visit to see for yourself? 

Picnic table at sunrise

More than just a picture perfect spot for your next picnic, Warksburn is overlooked by the famous Totem Poles of Stonehaugh village, adding some fascinating depth to the view from your picnic. 

Woman walking dog

Planted in 2007, Poppy Wood forms the northern gateway to The National Forest, the Midland's most famous forest. This newly planted woodland houses a mosaic of ash, oak, hazel and hawthorn trees, to name a few. See if you can spot something different on each visit! 

Surfaced and grassy trails guide you through the woodland which also includes picnic benches for you to make good use of the fantastic views across the surrounding countryside.

Large pond surrounded by tall trees on a sunny day

Once an aristocrat's dream, Dimmingsdale is now a delight for everyone.

Come and stroll down magnificent drives built by the Earl of Shrewsbury, where fine carriages once rode. The rolling countryside provides an abundance of woodland, streams, ponds and lakes which will transport you to a place of peace and calm.

Make sure to stop off for a drink and snack at the Rambler’s Retreat which offers a wide range of refreshments in a relaxed setting.

Family on bike ride on forest path

Play, walk, run or ride your way round Fermyn Woods, a stunning ancient woodland set just south of Corby.

With walking trails, orienteering routes, several play areas and a cafe, you will not be short of things to do. If you keep an eye out you'll spot hidden treasures all over, from red kites to deer.

The Visitor Centre is open most days and is managed by Northamptonshire County Council.

lines of conifer trees

From towering trees to hidden Second World War bunkers and an array of wildlife, Ostlers Plantation provides a world of exploration opportunity for all generations!

The beautiful variation of scenery means that you can walk for hours and still find new routes.