This year, the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) 30th annual Forest Week runs from 21 to 27 September. This important annual campaign aims to raise awareness about sustainable forestry and highlight the invaluable work of the FSC.
It’s an ideal time to lace up your walking boots and set off to explore some of the most incredible forests in the UK.
Whether you’re seeking a gentle afternoon stroll kicking up autumn leaves or a more strenuous hiking challenge, you won’t be short of options.
To make your choice a little easier, we’ve picked four of our favourite UK forests that offer a truly magical escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
So, read on to discover where your next woodland escape could take you.
1. Grizedale Forest, Lake District, England
Grizedale Forest is set in the heart of the Lake District World Heritage Site. It offers breathtaking views of lakes and mountains, as well as forest sculptures and walking trails to suit all levels of ability.
For a moderate, scenic walk, take the Grizedale Tarn Trail along the Old County Road. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Grizedale’s only natural tarn (mountain lake) and pass lots of striking sculptures along the way. At just under four miles, most people can comfortably complete this circular route in less than three hours.
If you fancy more of a challenge, climb to the summit of Carron Crag. On a clear day, the panoramic views of the southern Lake District can be spectacular.
When you’ve exhausted yourself in the forest, head to the visitor centre – located between Coniston Water and Windermere – for a well-earned cuppa in the tearooms.
Younger members of your family will love the adventure playground. There’s mountain bike hire, segway treks, and a tree-top adventure to entertain them too.
2. Tollymore Forest, County Down, Northern Ireland
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Northern Ireland, Tollymore Forest is a must-see. Covering an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains, this beautiful forest offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at nearby Newcastle.
There are four waymarked circular trails of different lengths, which start and end in the main car park. The blue trail is only half a mile long, which makes it a perfect choice for those who don’t want to venture far. The longest route is the black trail, which covers five and a half miles of beech woodland and conifer forest, running parallel to the Shimna River.
If you want to spend more than a day in the area, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, from horse riding to orienteering. What’s more, Tollymore Forest Park is open all year round for camping and touring vehicles. However, it’s worth checking ahead, as there may be short closures during periods of severe weather.
3. Mabie Forest, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Mabie Forest has been owned by the Forestry Commission since 1943. It is a popular recreational forest, with a collection of walking and mountain biking routes.
There’s also plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. The forest is home to red squirrels, badgers, roe deer, foxes, bats, and many species of insects, such as butterflies and moths – 20 of Scotland’s 32 resident butterflies can be found here.
There’s a hide on the edge of Lochaber Loch, from where you might catch a glimpse of a great crested glebe or, in the summer months, an osprey.
For walkers, there are a number of well-signposted routes, ranging in length from 1/2 a mile to 5 miles. Choose between “easy”, “moderate”, and “difficult” routes to suit your mood and fitness.
4. Cwm Rheidol, Ceredigion, Wales
Wales is full of beautiful walking spots and the Rheidol Valley or “Cwm Rheidol” is no exception.
However, unlike some of the more touristy areas, Cwm Rheidol feels amazingly unspoiled and relatively undiscovered.
So, if you’re seeking solitude or keen to explore off the beaten path, this could be the forest walk for you. Indeed, there’s a good chance you could walk for miles without seeing another soul, beyond the odd sheep or buzzard.
Of course, no trip to the Rheidol Valley would be complete without a ride on the famous steam train, which covers 12 miles of scenic Cambrian Mountains countryside.
Hop on at Aberystwyth and enjoy a relaxing hour watching woodlands, waterfalls, and mountains whizz past on the journey to Devil’s Bridge (Pontarfynach).
If you’re feeling re-energised by the time you leave the train, the nearby Devil’s Bridge Falls offers several challenging trails that provide incredible views of the waterfalls.
Get in touch
When you’re feeling calm and revitalised from spending time in nature, why not seize the opportunity to take control of your finances?
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Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
