TRAVEL-GUIDES
Our favourite forests in the UK
5th March 2024
We love a woodland walk here at Coolstays, with crispy leaves underfoot, the sun poking through the canopy, and nothing to listen to but the breeze and birdsong. The UK is a green and vibrant land, and is home to a wide array of woods and forests that make up over one-eighth of the total land.
So if you’re looking for a destination for your next staycation, why not consider a woodland cabin or cottage - or perhaps a magical treehouse stay tucked away amongst silver birch, ash, lime, and oak trees? You can wake to the peace and tranquillity of nature, wander the banks of meandering streams, and spot a range of native wildlife going about their day amongst the trees.
Here at Coolstays we offer a huge number of stays tucked away in the woods, so we thought we’d put together a list of our favourite forests and woods in the UK.
So if you’re looking for a destination for your next staycation, why not consider a woodland cabin or cottage - or perhaps a magical treehouse stay tucked away amongst silver birch, ash, lime, and oak trees? You can wake to the peace and tranquillity of nature, wander the banks of meandering streams, and spot a range of native wildlife going about their day amongst the trees.
Here at Coolstays we offer a huge number of stays tucked away in the woods, so we thought we’d put together a list of our favourite forests and woods in the UK.
Photo by Thomas Allsop on Unsplash.
The New Forest, Hampshire
Up first is a bit of an obvious one. But no list of the best forests in the UK can exist without the New Forest. The New Forest is a peaceful place where you can picnic in a quiet glade with your loved ones or strap on your hiking boots and stomp your way across vast, open moors. There are some delightful cliff top walks and, of course, some marvellous and beautiful ancient woodlands for you to explore.
There are so many walks on offer in the New Forest, but we particularly like the Radnor Trail. This trail winds its way through sweet chestnut, oak and beech trees that date back as far as the 1860s, and also takes you around the edge of the ancient Mark Ash Wood, which is home to some delightful pollarded beech trees. We’d also recommend a visit to Ashurst Wood and the nearby Churchplace Inclosure, which is a beautiful oak and beech wood that has been fenced off from grazing animals.
The New Forest is also home to some great locations for days out, including the New Forest Wildlife Park, Hurst Castle & Hurst Castle Ferry, Breamore House and Museum, and Paultons Park, which is the Home of Peppa Pig World!
There are so many walks on offer in the New Forest, but we particularly like the Radnor Trail. This trail winds its way through sweet chestnut, oak and beech trees that date back as far as the 1860s, and also takes you around the edge of the ancient Mark Ash Wood, which is home to some delightful pollarded beech trees. We’d also recommend a visit to Ashurst Wood and the nearby Churchplace Inclosure, which is a beautiful oak and beech wood that has been fenced off from grazing animals.
The New Forest is also home to some great locations for days out, including the New Forest Wildlife Park, Hurst Castle & Hurst Castle Ferry, Breamore House and Museum, and Paultons Park, which is the Home of Peppa Pig World!
**Things to do in the New Forest**
- Explore the Radnor Trail: Wander beneath ancient sweet chestnut, oak and beech trees dating back to the 1860s and circle the edge of historic Mark Ash Wood.
- Visit Ashurst Wood & Churchplace Inclosure: Discover peaceful oak and beech woodlands protected from grazing animals, perfect for a serene woodland walk.
- Enjoy a day at the New Forest Wildlife Park: Meet otters, owls, deer and other native species in this family-friendly park set in beautiful natural surroundings.
- Discover local heritage at Hurst Castle: Take the ferry or walk the shingle spit to explore Henry VIII's coastal fortress, with spectacular Solent views.
- Family fun at Paultons Park: Home to Peppa Pig World and over 70 rides and attractions — a hit with kids and adults alike.
**How to get to the New Forest**
- By Car: From London: Take the M3 to the M27 westbound and exit at Junction 1 (Cadnam) — around a 2-hour drive / From Bristol or the West: Follow the A36 or A350 towards Salisbury, then join the A338 or A31 into the Forest.
- By Train: Direct trains run from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst in about 90 minutes. Other stations include Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, and Sway.
- By Bus: Local buses connect Southampton, Lymington and Salisbury to key points within the Forest.
- By Bike: A superb network of off-road cycling routes; bike hire available in Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst.
- By Ferry: The nearby Lymington–Yarmouth ferry makes it easy to combine a New Forest trip with the Isle of Wight.
Some of our favourite Coolstays in the New Forest.
Picture courtesy of Allan Watt via Flickr Creative Commons
Galloway Forest Park, Dumfries and Galloway
Next up we’re taking you to the picturesque Dumfries and Galloway, which is home to the spectacular Galloway Forest Park. Here you can explore idyllic glens and rolling hillsides, or wander enchanting forest trails. However, if you want to stay still, you’ll want to simply while away the day by the shores of an inspiring loch, gazing up at the mountains beyond.
Many people refer to Galloway Forest Park as “the Highlands of the Lowlands”, and we can see why. The park is home to a dramatic range of breathtaking scenery as well as a vast array of wildlife. Deep lochs, sprawling mountains and thick conifer forests cover the land, which offers up a range of activities like cycling, hiking and fishing.
When it comes to specific spots to try out, we’d recommend visiting the tranquil Cally Woods, made up of relatively young oak, birch, sycamore and beech trees. Visit in spring to see the snowdrop drifts or come later in the year and witness primroses and bluebells, whilst keeping an eye out for red squirrels, buzzards and treecreepers.
We’d also recommend you visit Glen of the Bar, a spectacular viewpoint that looks out over a tree-clad gully that runs away from you for almost a mile. And finally, you might want to give Knockman Wood a try, with its tranquil atmosphere, roe and fallow deer and the fabulous views over Cairnsmore and the coast.
Many people refer to Galloway Forest Park as “the Highlands of the Lowlands”, and we can see why. The park is home to a dramatic range of breathtaking scenery as well as a vast array of wildlife. Deep lochs, sprawling mountains and thick conifer forests cover the land, which offers up a range of activities like cycling, hiking and fishing.
When it comes to specific spots to try out, we’d recommend visiting the tranquil Cally Woods, made up of relatively young oak, birch, sycamore and beech trees. Visit in spring to see the snowdrop drifts or come later in the year and witness primroses and bluebells, whilst keeping an eye out for red squirrels, buzzards and treecreepers.
We’d also recommend you visit Glen of the Bar, a spectacular viewpoint that looks out over a tree-clad gully that runs away from you for almost a mile. And finally, you might want to give Knockman Wood a try, with its tranquil atmosphere, roe and fallow deer and the fabulous views over Cairnsmore and the coast.
**Things to do in Galloway Forest Park**
- Explore Cally Woods: Wander among oak, birch, sycamore and beech trees, spotting red squirrels, buzzards and treecreepers — especially beautiful in spring with snowdrops, primroses and bluebells.
- Visit Glen of the Bar: Take in panoramic views from this spectacular viewpoint overlooking a tree-clad gully stretching for nearly a mile.
- Discover Knockman Wood: Enjoy peaceful walks among ancient oaks, with chances to see roe and fallow deer and stunning views towards Cairnsmore and the coast.
- Go hiking or cycling: The park’s vast network of trails caters to all levels, from gentle woodland strolls to challenging hill climbs with sweeping vistas.
- Stargaze at night: As part of the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, Galloway offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with crystal-clear skies free from light pollution.
**How to get to Galloway Forest Park**
- By Car: From Glasgow: Take the M77/A77 south towards Girvan, then follow the A714 to Newton Stewart — the main gateway to the park / From Carlisle or the South: Follow the A75 west through Dumfries to reach the park entrances.
- By Train: The nearest stations are Barrhill, Dumfries, and Girvan, with connecting bus services or taxis to the park.
- By Bus: Regular services run from Ayr, Dumfries, and Stranraer to Newton Stewart and nearby villages.
- By Bike: National Cycle Route 7 passes close to the park and offers scenic access for cyclists.
- By Air: The nearest major airports are Glasgow Prestwick (around 1.5 hours) and Glasgow International (around 2 hours).
Some of our favourite Coolstays close to the Galloway Forest Park
Solo Office KGDVS
Cretas - Teruel
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A Spanish getaway in a beautiful forest, uniquely designed to both complement and enhance the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Photo by Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash.
Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Wales
This is one of our favourite national parks in the whole of the UK and offers a whole host of activities and days out. Most people think of Eryri National Park for its huge mountains, but it also features around 36,400 hectares of woodland, which is 17% of its total area!
One forest trail that we would recommend is the Dinas Emrys trail. This takes you past waterfalls and through beautiful oak woodland as you make your way up to the summit of this legendary hill. Once you make it to the very top you’ll discover the remains of a square tower and defensive ramparts that once belonged to the ancient princes of Gwynedd.
Coed Felenrhyd & Llennyrch is another wood that’s worth a visit. This fabulous, rare, Atlantic oak woodland is one of the largest woods in Wales. This wood is located above the Vale of Ffestiniog and is surrounded by the dramatic waterfalls of the Afon Prysor gorge. The wood is awash with atmospheric pools and offers dramatic views of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) to the north and the rugged uplands of the Rhinog mountains to the south.
Coed-y-Brenin Forest is one of the more unique forests in the UK that sits within the Eryri National Park. This beautiful forest park in Wales, in Gwynedd, is the ideal getaway for any mountain bikers out there. This park was the first forest in the UK to be fully developed for the sport of mountain biking and is one of the best mountain biking spots in the country to this day! Not only do the man-made trails offer a fabulous way for mountain bikers to enjoy the forest, but it also offers breathtaking scenery and expansive views across to Cadair Idris and glaciated valleys, as well as wild untamed rivers.
One forest trail that we would recommend is the Dinas Emrys trail. This takes you past waterfalls and through beautiful oak woodland as you make your way up to the summit of this legendary hill. Once you make it to the very top you’ll discover the remains of a square tower and defensive ramparts that once belonged to the ancient princes of Gwynedd.
Coed Felenrhyd & Llennyrch is another wood that’s worth a visit. This fabulous, rare, Atlantic oak woodland is one of the largest woods in Wales. This wood is located above the Vale of Ffestiniog and is surrounded by the dramatic waterfalls of the Afon Prysor gorge. The wood is awash with atmospheric pools and offers dramatic views of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) to the north and the rugged uplands of the Rhinog mountains to the south.
Coed-y-Brenin Forest is one of the more unique forests in the UK that sits within the Eryri National Park. This beautiful forest park in Wales, in Gwynedd, is the ideal getaway for any mountain bikers out there. This park was the first forest in the UK to be fully developed for the sport of mountain biking and is one of the best mountain biking spots in the country to this day! Not only do the man-made trails offer a fabulous way for mountain bikers to enjoy the forest, but it also offers breathtaking scenery and expansive views across to Cadair Idris and glaciated valleys, as well as wild untamed rivers.
**Things to do in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)**
- Walk the Dinas Emrys Trail: Follow a magical woodland path past waterfalls and ancient oaks up to the summit of this legendary hill, where the remains of a tower and defensive ramparts of the princes of Gwynedd still stand.
- Explore Coed Felenrhyd & Llennyrch: Discover one of Wales’ largest and rarest Atlantic oak woodlands, set above the Vale of Ffestiniog and surrounded by the waterfalls of the Afon Prysor gorge.
- Go mountain biking at Coed-y-Brenin Forest: Tackle purpose-built trails in the UK’s first dedicated mountain biking forest, with routes for all skill levels and epic views of Cadair Idris.
- Hike and photograph Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon): Take one of several scenic routes to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of lakes, valleys and rugged peaks.
- Spot wildlife and enjoy scenic drives: Keep an eye out for red kites, otters and wild goats as you wind through dramatic mountain passes and forested valleys.
**How to get to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)**
- By Car: From Cardiff or South Wales: Take the A470 north through mid-Wales to Betws-y-Coed or Dolgellau / From Manchester or Liverpool: Follow the A55 west along the North Wales coast, then head inland via the A5 or A470.
- By Train: Mainline services run to Bangor, Blaenau Ffestiniog, and Porthmadog, with connections to local bus routes that reach many park areas.
- By Bus: Regular services operate between Bangor, Caernarfon, Betws-y-Coed, and Dolgellau, stopping at key visitor points across the park.
- By Bike: National Cycle Routes 5 and 8 run close to the park, and several local paths connect to popular trailheads such as Coed-y-Brenin.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon, both around 2–3 hours’ drive away.
Some of our favourite Coolstays in the Eryri National Park.
Picture courtesy of Rictor Norton & David Allen via Flickr Creative Commons.
Bradfield Woods, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
We’re heading to Suffolk next to the glorious, ancient Bradfield Woods. This is a truly marvellous and unique spot, as it has been under continuous traditional coppice management since 1252! Coppicing is an ancient method of managing woodland, where people cut the stems at ground level, in order to promote vigorous re-growth. Due to this ingenious approach being taken at Bradfield Woods for such a long time, the wood is home to some ash trees that are thought to be over 1,000 years old!
This wood is a great spot for lovers of wildlife, as the dense bushy growth provides fantastic cover for an array of migrant songbirds. These include the garden warbler, blackcap and willow warbler. If you’re vigilant you may also spot stoats, yellow-necked mice, dormice and badgers.
Bradfield Woods is also home to around five miles of walking trails, with three coloured trails providing you and your loved ones with different length walks to tackle.
This wood is a great spot for lovers of wildlife, as the dense bushy growth provides fantastic cover for an array of migrant songbirds. These include the garden warbler, blackcap and willow warbler. If you’re vigilant you may also spot stoats, yellow-necked mice, dormice and badgers.
Bradfield Woods is also home to around five miles of walking trails, with three coloured trails providing you and your loved ones with different length walks to tackle.
**Things to do in Bradfield Woods, Suffolk**
- Explore ancient coppiced woodland: Wander through one of Britain’s best-preserved traditional coppice woods, with hazel, oak and ash trees managed for over 700 years.
- Spot wildlife and wildflowers: Look out for rare species like dormice, purple hairstreak butterflies, and wildflowers such as oxlip and wood anemone in spring.
- Enjoy peaceful walking trails: Follow well-marked paths that weave through tranquil glades and leafy clearings — perfect for a relaxing nature stroll.
- Join a guided walk or event: The Suffolk Wildlife Trust runs regular seasonal walks and workshops on woodland crafts, wildlife watching and conservation.
- Visit nearby villages: Combine your trip with a visit to historic Bury St Edmunds, known for its abbey ruins, markets and charming tearooms.
**How to get to Bradfield Woods, Suffolk**
- By Car: From Bury St Edmunds, take the A134 towards Sudbury and follow signs for Felsham and Bradfield St George — parking is available near the reserve entrance.
- By Train: The nearest station is Bury St Edmunds, about 6 miles away, with regular services from Cambridge, Ipswich and London Liverpool Street.
- By Bus: Local bus routes connect Bury St Edmunds with nearby villages; check for services stopping near Bradfield St George.
- By Bike: Quiet country lanes make cycling a pleasant way to reach the woods from Bury St Edmunds or surrounding areas.
- By Air: The nearest major airports are Stansted (around 1 hour’s drive) and Norwich (about 1.5 hours).
Our favourite Coolstays near Bradfield Woods.
Photo by Amy Gatenby on Unsplash.
Kielder Forest, Northumberland
Kielder Forest, in Northumberland, is the largest forest in England and it sits around the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe. And yet not enough people know about, or appreciate, this absolutely outstanding part of the UK.
A true heaven for outdoor enthusiasts of all types, from hikers to bikers, the Kielder Water & Forest Park offers more than just trees. A quarter of the area is made up of vast open space, including the nation’s largest area of blanket bog. This provides you with big open areas to traverse, whilst taking in distant views of water and trees. Kielder Forest is also home to the largest remaining population of red squirrels in the country.
We think you may also enjoy a visit to the spectacular Kielder Castle, which is home to a striking Minotaur Maze where you and the kids can get lost! The castle also sits at the start of a 26-mile path that winds its way around the lake, so you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the water’s edge. The forest is also home to some of the best dark night skies in the country that are perfect for stargazing!
A true heaven for outdoor enthusiasts of all types, from hikers to bikers, the Kielder Water & Forest Park offers more than just trees. A quarter of the area is made up of vast open space, including the nation’s largest area of blanket bog. This provides you with big open areas to traverse, whilst taking in distant views of water and trees. Kielder Forest is also home to the largest remaining population of red squirrels in the country.
We think you may also enjoy a visit to the spectacular Kielder Castle, which is home to a striking Minotaur Maze where you and the kids can get lost! The castle also sits at the start of a 26-mile path that winds its way around the lake, so you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the water’s edge. The forest is also home to some of the best dark night skies in the country that are perfect for stargazing!
**Things to do in Kielder Forest**
- Visit Kielder Water & Forest Park: Explore one of the UK’s largest man-made lakes surrounded by miles of conifer forest — perfect for walking, cycling and water sports.
- Go stargazing: Experience incredible night skies at Kielder Observatory, located within Europe’s largest Dark Sky Park. Regular events and guided sessions make it ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
- Cycle the Lakeside Way: This 26-mile scenic route encircles Kielder Water and offers fantastic views, wildlife spotting opportunities, and peaceful picnic spots.
- Discover local art and architecture: Follow the Art & Architecture Trail to find striking sculptures and installations dotted around the forest landscape.
- Spot wildlife: Look out for red squirrels, ospreys, roe deer, and even otters while exploring the forest’s varied habitats.
**How to get to Kielder Forest**
- By Car: From Newcastle, take the A69 to Hexham, then follow the B6320 north towards Bellingham and Kielder Water. From Carlisle, take the A7 and B6357 east to Kielder Village.
- By Train: The nearest mainline stations are Hexham and Carlisle, both offering taxi or bus connections to Kielder.
- By Bus: Limited local bus services run to Bellingham and Kielder Village from Hexham; check schedules in advance as services are infrequent.
- By Bike: The forest connects to sections of National Cycle Route 68 (the Pennine Cycleway) for adventurous riders.
- By Air: The closest airport is Newcastle International, about 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
Some of our favourite Coolstays near the Kielder Forest.
Photo by Richard on Unsplash.
Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Nestled at the boundary where England merges with Wales, the famous Forest of Dean provides an expanse of pristine wilderness and enchanting attractions. The forest and the nearby Wye Valley (another of our absolute favourite places in the UK) offer you the chance to slow down and live life at a more leisurely pace. This part of the country is home to some beautiful landscapes and ancient woodland that is teeming with wildlife.
You should start your trip to the area by visiting Beechenhurst, an expanse of gorgeous woodlands that you can explore with your loved ones visiting the family activity trail, Sculpture Trail and the fab play area. Beechenhurst is one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands, and you can feel the ancient history as you explore its marvellous pathways.
If you fancy lunch by the side of a scenic lake, then we’d advise you give Mallards Pike a try. This beautiful setting is ideal for a waterside stroll or a family cycle trip that takes you further into the forest. The lake also offers a lovely cafe for lunches and coffees, and the chance to get on the water and try your hand at some different activities.
Cannop Ponds is a pair of delightful reservoirs situated in the heart of the Forest of Dean. The ponds were initially established in the 1820s to provide water for a waterwheel at the Parkend Ironworks and now they are a lovely fishing spot favoured by the Yorkley Angling Club. If you don’t fancy fishing, this is still a great location to explore or just sit and enjoy a scenic picnic whilst taking in the diverse local birdlife.
You should start your trip to the area by visiting Beechenhurst, an expanse of gorgeous woodlands that you can explore with your loved ones visiting the family activity trail, Sculpture Trail and the fab play area. Beechenhurst is one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands, and you can feel the ancient history as you explore its marvellous pathways.
If you fancy lunch by the side of a scenic lake, then we’d advise you give Mallards Pike a try. This beautiful setting is ideal for a waterside stroll or a family cycle trip that takes you further into the forest. The lake also offers a lovely cafe for lunches and coffees, and the chance to get on the water and try your hand at some different activities.
Cannop Ponds is a pair of delightful reservoirs situated in the heart of the Forest of Dean. The ponds were initially established in the 1820s to provide water for a waterwheel at the Parkend Ironworks and now they are a lovely fishing spot favoured by the Yorkley Angling Club. If you don’t fancy fishing, this is still a great location to explore or just sit and enjoy a scenic picnic whilst taking in the diverse local birdlife.
**Things to do in the Forest of Dean**
- Explore Puzzlewood: Wander through this magical ancient woodland filled with moss-covered rocks, twisting pathways and hidden ravines — a filming location for Star Wars, Harry Potter and Doctor Who.
- Walk the Sculpture Trail: Follow a 4.5-mile trail through the forest featuring unique, thought-provoking sculptures inspired by the landscape and its history.
- Go underground at Clearwell Caves: Discover a fascinating network of natural caverns and learn about the area’s ancient iron mining heritage.
- Cycle the Family Trail: Enjoy an easy, scenic 9-mile circular route that’s perfect for all ages, with plenty of picnic spots and café stops along the way.
- Canoe or paddle on the River Wye: Take to the water for a peaceful paddle through some of the most picturesque scenery in the Wye Valley.
**How to get to the Forest of Dean**
- By Car: From Bristol or Cardiff, take the M48 or M4 to Chepstow, then follow signs for the Forest of Dean via the A466 and A4136 / From Gloucester, follow the A40 west towards Coleford and Cinderford.
- By Train: The nearest station is Lydney, with regular services from Gloucester, Cardiff, and Bristol. Taxis and buses connect the station to main forest attractions.
- By Bus: Local buses run from Gloucester, Monmouth, and Chepstow to towns such as Coleford, Cinderford, and Lydney.
- By Bike: The Forest offers excellent cycling routes and connects with National Cycle Network Route 42, linking to the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Bristol Airport (around 1 hour’s drive) and Cardiff Airport (about 1 hour 15 minutes).
Some of our favourite Coolstays near the Forest of Dean.
Photo courtesy of Carl Spencer via Flickr Creative Commons.
Dalby Forest, Yorkshire
We’re taking you up to Yorkshire now, with a visit to the outstanding Dalby Forest set within the North York Moors National Park. Spanning over 8,500 acres of captivating landscapes, offering an array of walking, running and cycling trails, along with enchanting Gruffalo adventures, Dalby Forest is a great spot for a family break or a romantic getaway amidst the trees.
The forest holds the prestigious title of a Dark Sky Discovery Site, which means you and your loved ones can step out at night and witness the mesmerising Milky Way without any visual interference.
When heading out, there are some great routes for you to explore. One standout choice is the Ellerburn Family Cycle Route, thoughtfully designed to accommodate disabled cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. For those seeking a more extensive journey, embark on the Dalby Forest Route, which is a captivating 14.5-mile circular path that is great for both cycling and walking.
Nature lovers can also spot a whole host of wildlife at Dalby Forest, including grazing deer along the Sneverdale Rabbit Run, and the picturesque Staindale Lake, which is a delightful spot for a leisurely picnic. And if you want to venture further afield, you have the whole North York Moors National Park on your doorstep!
The forest holds the prestigious title of a Dark Sky Discovery Site, which means you and your loved ones can step out at night and witness the mesmerising Milky Way without any visual interference.
When heading out, there are some great routes for you to explore. One standout choice is the Ellerburn Family Cycle Route, thoughtfully designed to accommodate disabled cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. For those seeking a more extensive journey, embark on the Dalby Forest Route, which is a captivating 14.5-mile circular path that is great for both cycling and walking.
Nature lovers can also spot a whole host of wildlife at Dalby Forest, including grazing deer along the Sneverdale Rabbit Run, and the picturesque Staindale Lake, which is a delightful spot for a leisurely picnic. And if you want to venture further afield, you have the whole North York Moors National Park on your doorstep!
**Things to do in Dalby Forest**
- Go mountain biking: Tackle over 70km of purpose-built trails for all abilities, from family-friendly green routes to adrenaline-pumping red and black runs.
- Walk the forest trails: Explore scenic walking paths like the Adderstone Rigg Trail or Staindale Lake Walk, offering stunning views across the North York Moors.
- Visit the Dalby Forest Visitor Centre: Learn about the forest’s wildlife and history, stop for refreshments, and pick up maps or hire bikes.
- Enjoy family adventures: Let the kids loose on the play areas or experience treetop thrills at Go Ape Dalby Forest.
- Stargaze at night: As part of a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, Dalby Forest is one of the best places in England to enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky.
**How to get to Dalby Forest**
- By Car: From Pickering, take the A169 Whitby Road and follow the signs for Dalby Forest Drive / From Scarborough, take the A170 west to Thornton-le-Dale and follow signs to the forest.
- By Train: The nearest stations are Scarborough and Malton, both with onward connections via bus or taxi to Pickering and the forest entrance.
- By Bus: Regular services run to Pickering from Scarborough, York, and Malton; local taxis are available to complete the journey to the forest.
- By Bike: Dalby connects to several National Cycle Network routes, and there’s ample bike parking and hire available at the visitor centre.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Leeds Bradford, around 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
Some of our favourite Coolstays near the Dalby Forest.
Best time of year to visit the UK's forests
**Spring (March – May)**
- See the forests come alive: Wildflowers such as bluebells, primroses, and wood anemones carpet the forest floor.
- Perfect for wildlife spotting: Look out for nesting birds, deer, and butterflies emerging after winter.
- Ideal walking conditions: Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make spring great for long woodland hikes.
- Photographer’s dream: The soft light and fresh greenery create spectacular photo opportunities.
**Summer (June – August)**
- Long, sunny days: Perfect for picnics, cycling, and family adventures under the forest canopy.
- Great for camping and glamping: Many forests have sites for tents, cabins, or treehouses.
- Enjoy outdoor events: Forests host concerts, festivals, and ranger-led walks during the summer months.
- Cool shade on hot days: Dense woodland paths offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
**Autumn (September – November)**
- Experience stunning colours: Watch the forests transform into a blaze of gold, red and amber.
- Ideal for photographers and walkers: Crisp air, rich light, and dramatic scenery make autumn one of the most beautiful times to visit.
- Spot foraging wildlife: Squirrels, deer and birds are busy preparing for winter.
- Enjoy seasonal produce: Visit nearby farm shops for local apples, mushrooms and cider.
**Winter (December – February)**
- Peaceful and atmospheric: Bare branches and frost-covered paths create a magical, tranquil atmosphere.
- Great for short, scenic walks: Enjoy crisp air and quiet trails, especially in early morning light.
- Chance of snow: Some forests, especially in Scotland and northern England, turn into stunning winter wonderlands.
- Cosy getaways nearby: Combine your forest visit with a stay in a log cabin or countryside cottage with a roaring fire.
A summary of some of our favourite forests in the UK
| Forest | Location | Best For | Features & Activities | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The New Forest | Hampshire, South England | Walking, wildlife, family days out | Ancient woodland trails, ponies, Paultons Park (Peppa Pig World), Hurst Castle, New Forest Wildlife Park | Excellent road access via M27; train to Brockenhurst or Ashurst; good local bus links |
| Galloway Forest Park | Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland | Scenic drives, stargazing, hiking | Dark Sky Park, mountain biking, Glen of the Bar viewpoint, Knockman Wood, Cally Woods | Accessible by car from Glasgow or Carlisle; nearest stations Barrhill & Dumfries |
| Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) | North Wales | Mountain hiking, forest trails, biking | Dinas Emrys Trail, Coed Felenrhyd & Llennyrch, Coed-y-Brenin Forest, waterfalls, wildlife | Train to Bangor, Blaenau Ffestiniog or Porthmadog; good road access via A470 & A5 |
| Bradfield Woods | Near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk | Peaceful walks, wildlife, nature photography | Ancient coppiced woodland, wildflowers, guided walks, Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserve | Easy access by car from Bury St Edmunds (A134); 6 miles from nearest train station |
| Kielder Forest | Northumberland | Cycling, water sports, stargazing | Kielder Water, Observatory, Lakeside Way Trail, red squirrels, art & architecture installations | Access via A69 or A7; nearest stations Hexham & Carlisle; limited bus services |
| Forest of Dean | Gloucestershire, South West England | Adventure activities, family trips, culture | Puzzlewood, Sculpture Trail, Clearwell Caves, River Wye canoeing, cycling routes | Good road access via A40/A4136; nearest station Lydney; bus links from Gloucester |
| Dalby Forest | North Yorkshire | Mountain biking, walking, stargazing | Coed-y-Brenin-style bike trails, Adderstone Rigg Trail, Go Ape, visitor centre, dark sky site | Accessible via A169 from Pickering or Scarborough; trains to Malton or Scarborough |
FAQs about the UK's best forests
What are some of the best forests to visit in the UK?
Some of the UK’s most beautiful and diverse forests include The New Forest in Hampshire, Galloway Forest Park in Scotland, Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in Wales, Kielder Forest in Northumberland, and the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire. Each offers unique landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
When is the best time of year to visit UK forests?
UK forests are stunning year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, summer offers long days for hiking and biking, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter delivers peaceful, frosty walks and cosy woodland stays.
Are UK forests good for family days out?
Yes! Many forests such as Dalby Forest, The New Forest, and the Forest of Dean have family-friendly walking trails, adventure playgrounds, and attractions like Go Ape or wildlife parks — perfect for all ages.
Can you camp or stay overnight in UK forests?
Absolutely. Many forests have designated campsites, glamping pods, and forest lodges. Kielder Forest, The New Forest, and Galloway Forest Park are particularly popular for stargazing stays under the UK’s Dark Skies.
Are dogs allowed in UK forests?
Most UK forests are dog-friendly, with plenty of trails and open spaces to explore. Some areas may require dogs to be kept on leads, especially near wildlife or livestock.
Do I need to pay to enter UK forests?
Entry to most forests is free, although some managed sites like Dalby Forest or Kielder Water & Forest Park may charge a small parking or vehicle entry fee to maintain trails and facilities.
What wildlife can I see in UK forests?
UK forests are home to red squirrels, deer, owls, woodpeckers, and even ospreys. In spring and summer, forests come alive with butterflies, songbirds, and wildflowers.
Are there accessible routes for wheelchairs or buggies?
Yes, many forests including The New Forest, Dalby Forest, and Eryri National Park offer accessible trails with level paths, viewing areas, and accessible parking and toilets.
Can I go mountain biking in UK forests?
Definitely! Forests such as Dalby Forest, Coed-y-Brenin in Eryri, and Kielder Forest are among the UK’s top mountain biking destinations, with trails for beginners to experts.
Are UK forests safe to visit all year round?
Yes, UK forests are safe to visit year-round. Always check local weather forecasts, wear appropriate footwear, and follow marked paths. During stormy or high-wind periods, some forest trails may temporarily close for safety.