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Easy access paths through the wood with man on tramper

An all weather surfaced trail, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.  This walk takes in some of the oldest trees in the forest with seating and a picnic bench along the way and at the Dragonfly Pond.

All the play areas are found along this trail.  

Easy access paths through the wood with man on tramper

This 1.5km easy access trail guides you through the stunning beech woodland of Birchden. There are stops along the way to view sculptures that have been installed, giving you the opportunity to learn about the local history of the area. 

Easy access paths through the wood with man on tramper

The Easy Access Trail is suitable for most wheelchairs and pushchairs, and has an optional shortcut.

After passing through a young conifer plantation the trail crosses a path and enters a majestic stand of mature Scots pine. Soon, the pine are replaced with large oak trees which line the path. Hereafter your experiences will depend on whether you choose the long or the short route.

Man touching a tree with his hand
Sensory Walks

Going for a sensory walk helps you get outside, be active and connect with nature.

The sensory walks at Wyre Forest are designed with the intention of bringing users closer to nature. They do not include any man-made points of interest, but instead use completely natural features that can be seen, touched, smelled and heard.

Choose from two routes:

Trees in mist

Established in 1915 with trees brought back by the Victorian plant hunter Ernest Wilson from his 1910 explorations of China, The Cyril Hart Arboretum is home to over 200 tree species. 

Originally known as the Speech House Arboretum, it was later renamed the Cyril Hart Arboretum after Dr Cyril Hart who dedicated a lifetime of service to forestry and was a Senior Verderer (1952 – 2009) of the Forest of Dean.

Gruffalo's child at Cardinham Woods
Gruffalo sculptures

If you venture into the deep, dark wood you may bump into one of six characters from The Gruffalo, the best-selling picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Follow the Lady Vale walk to start your adventure.

Can you find The Gruffalo himself?

Lakeside view at Mallards Pike

There is something for everyone at this beautiful lakeside setting.

Adrenaline seekers can challenge themselves at Go Ape Tree Top Challenge. For those with energy left to burn there is Forest Segway or a range of running trails from 2km to 10km routes.

Families enjoying cycling in the 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.

Cafe at Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean

Beechenhurst lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands.

It is the ideal place for families to start their forest adventure, with a family activity trail, large forest-themed play area and Go Ape high ropes course. Explore the forest on foot using one of our walking trails, or bring your bikes and visit the wider forest using the Colliers Trail - our family-friendly cycling route.

View from Symonds Yat Rock in spring

Discover the ancient hill fort, spot birds of prey and enjoy a snack from the log cabin cafe.

There are waymarked trails linking to the River Wye and over the famous Biblins Bridge, or a choice of circular walks into the forest itself. There is also a cycling trail linking Forest Holidays and Camping in the Forest site at Bracelands to Symonds Yat Rock.

A dog walking along a trail with two adults behind - one walking and one using an off-road mobility scooter

Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play.

Set within the Lake District, a World Heritage Site, Whinlatter has unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. It is also home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trails in the Lake District. 

Two adults and two children walking away from the camera up a forest road
Walking trails and routes

The longest walking trail in Cardinham Woods takes you on a gentle climb up the tracks to explore the outer edges of the forest.

At the top, you’ll have the best chance to catch sight of deer, and in May you will be greeted with a carpet of bluebells.

Head back down to the Scots pine picnic area - don't forget your picnic!

Wooden Gruffalo sculpture
Gruffalo sculptures

If you venture into the deep dark wood you may bump into the Gruffalo from Julia Donaldson's fantastic story. 

You can find Gruffalo in the Bullers Hill picnic and play area. This is at the end of the Discovery Trail or can be reached directly from the car park.

Cardinham Woods autumn viewpoint

Cardinham Woods is a Cornish hidden gem, nestling in a beautiful valley with a bubbling stream. The mixed woodland rolls across the valley sides of Cardinham water (part of the River Fowey) with opportunities to explore on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback.

Discover stunning viewpoints, local wildlife, and a slice of Cornish history with the remnants of a former lead mine and an ancient clapper bridge.

Close-up of two people's walking boots stood on forest ground.
Walking trails and routes

Bedgebury offers scenic walking routes for all abilities, promoting healthy living for all the family. Walks include gentle strolls, self-led trails, challenging longer forest walks and trails that explore the National Collection of Conifers.

To find out more about the tree collection before you set out read About Bedgebury, the National Pinetum.

Autumn viewpoint at Haldon Forest Park

Whether you want a quiet gentle stroll or an exhilarating mountain biking experience, there’s something for you at Haldon Forest Park. Only 15 minutes from Exeter and Newton Abbot just off the A38, Haldon Forest Park is perfect place for great value days out with kids, friends, or family. 

couple walking in the forest on waymarked trail
Event
Every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month
10:30am start for approximately one hour
Haldon Forest Park

Free weekly walks guided by experienced coaches aimed at nurturing physical and mental health, while spending time in the beautiful forests of Haldon Forest Park.

  Would you like to join us for a free weekly walk? 

Come join Helen and Ranger Jon each Monday at 10:30am for a gentle walk in the woods! Occasionally we are joined by guest speakers or guides for themed walks too on subjects such as forestry, mindfulness and fossils.

Early morning mist rising up above the lake in autumn

Bedgebury is an award winning visitor attraction with something for everyone. Open all year, Bedgebury is the perfect place for healthy outdoor activity.

Ivy covered mine stack surrounded by conifers
Walking trails and routes

This trail follows the river before a short, strenuous ascent to reach the old lead and silver mine of Wheal Glynn. Descend down the valley side returning to the Lady Vale Bridge. 

About Wheal Glynn

Man using a disability recumbent bike
Article
16 January 2024
To help you plan your visit, this page offers helpful information on accessibility at the nation's forests.
A digital illustration of the Gruffalo standing in the forest with bunting strung above him.
The Gruffalo Party Trails

2024 is The Gruffalo’s 25th birthday year and to celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure.

What to expect

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.

Gisburn Forest entrance

Step into the fairy tale woods of Gisburn Forest and Stocks. Explore the trails and experience a sense of space and freedom as you breathe in the fresh air and hear the peaceful bird song.

Gisburn’s dramatic scenery, with deep forest and challenging hills, provides the perfect backdrop for our award-winning mountain bike trails. Demanding climbs and exhilarating downhills make it the ultimate off-road mecca!

Women walking in the woods
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Bedgebury National Pinetum Visitor Centre lake view of cafe
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Woman walking a dog on a lead along a trail, surrounded by bluebells
Walking trails and routes

Wyre and its surrounding woodlands are fantastic places to enjoy the fresh air and and have fun outdoors. There are three waymarked walking trails to explore, or you can head out into the wider forest using the network of public rights of way and forest roads.

a couple walking along a wide forest rail with a panorama
Walking trails and routes

Whether you’re looking for play and adventure or a bit of peace and quiet to observe the wildlife, Haldon Forest Park has the perfect walking trail for you. Choose from an easygoing stroll along the top of the Haldon ridge with expansive countryside views, or take a more challenging hike deeper into the forest.

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Dilly running in Haldon Forest
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