If you and your little nature lovers are on the lookout for the perfect family walk, these Stick Man trails from the Forestry Commission are the perfect mixture of entertaining and educational. Be sure to download their activity pack to take with you on your travels here too!
Grizedale Forest, Cumbria
Set in the picturesque heart of the Lake District, Grizdale Forest offers lots of fun for every little (and big!) nature lover. As well as walking and cycling trails, you’ll also get to admire the wildlife, amazing sculptures and take in the glorious woodland surroundings and sunshine. Find out more.
Hamsterley Forest, Bishop Auckland, Durham
Hamsterley, which offers over 20,000 hectares of wonderful woodland, has lots to offer for outdoor lovers! It’s one of the Super 6 mountain biking locations and also includes a lovely adventure play park. New for 2016 are the new Viking themed play areas, including the Ghostship, Dragon Swing, Thor’s Workshop and Odin’s keep! Find out more.
Kielder Forest and Water Park, Northumberland
This breathtaking forest which, at 250 acres, is the UK’s largest forest! As well as the Stick Man Trail, you can also take on the largest mountain bike trail, see some fab art and architecture and more. For rumbling tums, head to the Kielder Castle cafe which offers hot meals, snacks and yummy cake. Find out more.
Dalby Forest, Scarborough
Dalby Forest, situated on the southern slopes of the North York Moors National Park, offers stunning views and lots to do! Take to the tree tops with Go Ape or have a go on their Segway tours. For those after a relaxing slice of culture, head over to The Lumberjills for some outdoor theatre entertainment! Find out more.
Guisborough Forest, Yorkshire
With an orienteering course, trimtrail, sculpture trail, play area and more, Guisborough Forest is the perfect family day out! There’s also fun ranger led activities and downloadable activity packs for you take with you on your visit! Find out more.
Salcey Forest, Northamptonshire
There’s lots to see and do at Salcey Forest! Try horse riding, cycling and release your inner ninja on their tree Ninja activity, including a ropes course, 6 zip lines and Shock Drop. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the fab events taking place over the summer! Find out more.
Haughmond Hill, Shropshire
Offering stunning views of the River Severn and Shrewsbury, and all the way to the South Shropshire and Welsh hills beyond, Haughmond Hill is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Bring along a family picnic, or head over to the on site cafe! Find out more.
Cannock Chase Forest, Staffordshire
Offering amazing bike trails, woodland walks, adventure play and Go Ape Tree Top Adventure, Cannock Chase Forest is the perfect family day out for those after an active adventure! Find out more.
Thetford Forest Park, Suffolk
You’ll be spoilt for chance at the UK’s largest man made lowland forest, which covers 18,730 hectares! Other than finding some wonderful wildlife, there’s also lots of fab play areas and the chance to find out more about the history and heritage of Mildenhall Warren and Lynford Arboretum! Find out more.
Beechenhurst Lodge, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Nestled within the heart of the Forest of Dean, this lovely lodge offers a Sculpture Trail (with new artwork added this year), play area, cafe, climbing tower and Tree Top Junior! If you’re feeling peckish, head over to the Contain-a-Cafe for some yummy treats. Find out more.
Haldon Forest Park, Exeter
With 3,500 acres of woodland, and just fifteen minutes from Exeter, Haldon Forest offers something for everyone! There’s horse riding, bike trails, orienteering and so much more. Be sure to pay a visit to on site cafe The Ridge. Little explorers will also love woodland adventure club A Touch of the Wild, where those aged 6 – 13 year, which runs during the summer holidays. Find out more.
Cardinham Woods, Cornwall
This beautiful mixed woodland, with its waymarked trails that take you deep into the woods, allows you to discover stunning viewpoints and an fascinating history. Head to the Woods Cafe to refuel after your adventure! Find out more.
Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire
Feeling adventurous? Wendover Woods is the place to be! With Go-Ape! Tree Top Adventure, orienteering and even a fitness trail assault course, little moneys will be in their element! For those after a relaxing day out, bring along a picnic to enjoy the stunning views. Find out more.
Moors Valley Country Park, Dorset
Moors Valley, famous for its adventurous woodland Play Trail designed for families of all ages, offers lots of fun for all of the family. Go for a walk to take in the beautiful scenery, take to the Tree Tops for Go Ape, hire a bike and more! There’s also a lovely cafe and gift shop on site. Find out more.
Bedgebury Pinetum, Kent
Bedgebury Pinetum, which offers cycling, walking, running and riding, adventure play and Go Ape, is the perfect family day out… whatever you’re into! You’ll get the chance to visit the National Pinetum, which has one of the world’s finest conifer collections! Find out more.
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