Rockingham Forest

Rockingham Forest covers more than 200 square miles in North East Northamptonshire and is said to have been the favourite hunting forest of William the Conqueror! A lovely landscape with ancient woodland (some of it has been there since at least 1600 AD!), parkland, and open grassland.

It's home to Fermyn Wood Country Park, which is also free to visit, has 3 circular trails to follow, an orienteering course, plus its home to loads of wildlife. Look out for birds such as green woodpeckers, red kites, and bullfinch, and wildlife such as newts, dragonflies, Fallow deer, and badgers!

There is so much to see and do in the forest, such as hunting for the Bocase Stone (said to mark the site or Norman Forest Courts!), visit Lyveden New Bield (National Trust, admission charges apply), or wander out to the river Nene and link up with the Nene Way Footpath. You can also explore Short and Southwick Woods (ancient woodland that is covered in bluebells during the spring), and Glapthorn Cow Pastures (a refuge for the rare Black Hairstreak butterfly!).

A great place to go for a family walk, ride, or cycle, or for a mini beast safari! Always best to bring the wellies off season though as part of the grounds here can get pretty muddy.