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Forest Walks Near Me

sunlight catching the forest
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As autumn is in full force, mounds of leaves have fallen to the floor ready to step on. The cosy jumpers are out, hats and scarves and hot chocolates are your afternoon drink to keep you warm. But you don’t have to stay indoors during the season, because autumn environments are fun to explore. Why not embark on ‘forest walks near me’ this weekend and embrace the changing seasons?

Forest Walks in Scotland

forest and lake

Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Scottish Highlands

Begin your autumn journey in the spectacular Scottish Highlands. With ancient trees, woodland walks and stunning views to accompany you along the way!

Take in rugged mountains, sparkling lochs, rolling Trossachs hills and beautiful views of the surroundings as you and your family start your forest walk and try to spot the countless wildlife species you can spot here. With multiple wonderful woodland walks, there are easy trails for families with children and harder trails for those who love a challenge!

Set your eyes on panoramic views shrouded in autumn colour.

Shape Location Get directions

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park,
Scottish Highlands,
FK8 3SX

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

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the night sky at galloway forest park

Galloway Forest Park, Creebridge

Discover rolling Galloway glen hills, beautiful routes that can take you as far as you want, on forest trails fit for everyone. Love to bike? Mountain biking or family cycling – you’ll find accessible routes for you.

Start your journey from three of the park’s visitor centres and discover stunning wildlife, trickling water and starry nights. A trip to Galloway is a memorable one, perfect for you and the family to enjoy on a weekend afternoon (or night!). Just remember to wrap up warm and bring plenty of water!

Shape Location Get directions

Galloway Forest,
Creebridge,
Newton Stewart,
DG8 6AJ

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

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Forest Walks in the North East

brightly coloured autumn trees by a lake

Hawksworth Wood Circular, North West Leeds

Fancy a quiet secluded forest walk? Hawksworth Wood offers that and more. With a vast space of over 8 acres, there is plenty to explore. From the glorious woodlands to the recreational park and not forgetting the variety of wildlife you can spot along the way – it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers!

Once you’ve finished exploring the forest walk, head up towards the riverside and Newlay Bridge, where you’ll discover more tree-covered landmarks! It’s also perfect for dog-friendly woodland walks, so don’t forget to bring your paw-some pets!

Shape Location Get directions

Hawksworth Wood,
Hawksworth,
Leeds,
LS5 3LU

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plessey woods in autumn

Plessey Woods, Northumberland

Welcome to a forest park that offers 100 acres of beautiful woodlands to explore! Home to an array of bird species from the elusive woodpecker to the tree creeper and if you’ll lucky you could spot a red squirrel!

This will be a forest walk to remember as you stroll past meandering rivers, secluded spots, and naturalistic nooks and crannies. Not only that but you may spot roe deer, foxes, and kingfishers living in the mature woodland also known as Bluebell Woods.
I wonder why it’s called that…maybe visit in the spring season to find out?

Explore, play and most of all have fun on your forest walk. Don’t forget to bring a picnic!

Shape Location Get directions

Plessey Woods Country Park,
Shields Road,
Plessey,
Nr Bedlington,
Northumberland,
NE22 6HZ

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday
07:00 - 20:00

Pricing

Parking:
1 hour free
2 hours £2.00
Over 2 hours £4.00

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Forest Walks in the North West

two deers in dunham massey park

Dunham Massey, Cheshire

Wander through an ancient woodland as you’re surrounded by peaceful woods and veteran trees. You’ll also find tranquil ponds for that utter serenity, right by the lake too – so if you have any water babies, they’ll love this forest walk! It’s also part of the National Trust, so members can tick off another site off their list.

Animal lover? You may be lucky to come across fallow deer who roam around the park! Due to this dogs will need to be kept on leads.

Shape Location Get directions

Dunham Massey,
Altrincham,
WA14 4SJ

Opening Times

Monday and Tuesday 09:30 - 16:00
Wednesday to Friday 09:30 - 17:30
Saturday and Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

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dark nights at gisburn forest

Gisburn Forest and Stocks, Slaidburn

A way to unwind after a stressful week at work and school is a forest walk in the wide open spaces, surrounded by nature. It’s relaxing and calming and who can say no to a little bit of exploring?

At Gisburn Forest and Stocks, you’ll find forest trails in the mixed woodland, rolling hills and the perfect space for mountain biking! And to top it off, the night sky is alight with stars on a clear night. So, if you fancy star gazing, you know where to go!

A majestic woodland and fantastic views of the night sky in the autumn months – what more could you ask for?

Shape Location Get directions

Gisburn Forest and Stocks,
Slaidburn,
BB7 4TS

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

Pricing

Parking:
1 hour £2.00
4 hours £3.50
All day £4.00
After 6 £2.00

Find out more

Forest Walks in the Midlands

a family walking in a forest wearing bright rain coats

Sence Valley Forest Park, Leicestershire

Travel to a quaint country park that River Sence joins as well as 3 other major lakes! Water babies will love to listen to the gentle waves and observe the waterfowl relish in the water!

Here, you’ll find a variety of pine trees as well as broadleaf trees. All the trees here provide precious wildlife habitats like birds, insects and butterflies. There are cycle, horse riding and walking trails here, for whatever mood you’re in! And you’ll find plenty of picnic tables and ideal spots to sit back and relax.

Shape Location Get directions

MHXR+2C,
14 Ravenstone Rd,
Ibstock,
LE67 6NW

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday
07:00 - 19:00

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dimmingsdale forest park and lake

Dimmingsdale, Staffordshire

Picture yourself amongst the tranquil surroundings, rolling countryside and woodland pretty much everywhere. Spot streams, ponds, and lakes providing you with that escape and deep dive into nature.

There are plenty of walking trails for your forest walks, no matter your fitness level or who you’re with. And it’s also dog friendly, so bring them along too! See how many colours you can find on the leaves and maybe try to find a conker!

Shape Location Get directions

Forest Schools Birmingham,
Kingstanding Wellbeing Centre,
Dulwich Road,
Birmingham,
B44 0EW

Opening Times

Spring: 08:00 - 17:00
Summer: 08:00 - 18:00
Autumn: 08:00 - 17:00
Winter: 08:00 - 16:00

Pricing

No parking charges

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Forest Walks in the South East

two people admiring the art work in the forest

Blean Wildart Trail, Kent

Did you ever want to explore a sensory trail on your forest walk? At the Blean Wildart Trail, you’ll find natural, non-invasive artwork that blends into its surroundings. Using sustainable materials, you’ll find totem poles and artwork standing tall and proud.

It’s easily accessible and has lots of trails for gentle walking and adventuring!

Perfect for families with kids to venture out and try to spot all the incredible artwork! How many can you spot?

Shape Location Get directions

New Rd,
Herne Bay,
CT6 7NZ

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

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devils dyke valley

Devil's Dyke, West Sussex

Another National Trust treasure that sparks the joy in family fun days. Take in the scenic views, sounds and smells of the outside world and frolic along the hills.

Venture into the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK and picture panoramic views. Don’t forget to find the carpet of flowers and insects!

Shape Location Get directions

Devil's Dyke,
Nr Brighton,
West Sussex

Opening Times

Dawn to dusk

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Forest Walks in the South West

people walking in haldon forest

Haldon Forest Park, Exeter

Explore 3,500 acres of woodland with leafy trees wherever you go and a network of paths taking you whichever way you’d like. Whether you want to cycle, mountain bike or take a leisurely stroll. There’s a forest walk here for you.

You’ll find a pump loop, cycle area, orienteering courses and secret spots waiting to be discovered. There’s also the Superworm trail to take part in, featuring brightly illustrated panels and a fun activity trail pack including exciting activities!

Shape Location Get directions

Bullers Hill,
Kennford,
Exeter,
EX6 7XR

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday
07:00 - 21:00

Pricing

Up to 2 hours £4.00
Up to 4 hours £6.00
All day £8.00

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an older couple on the sensory trail at soudley ponds

Soudley Ponds, Forest of Dean

Enter a world full of lush green fir trees and hectares of woodland that absorbs any sound. Discover ponds alongside paths as you walk and up a steep ridge – if you’re up to the challenge!

There is even a sensory walk that can help you venture outside to connect with nature. It’s around 2.5km and you’ll be able to take in spectacular views as you stroll along.

Shape Location Get directions

12 Church Rd,
Soudley,
Cinderford,
GL14 2UA

Opening Times

Open 24 hours

Pricing

No parking charges

Find out more

So, now you know all the best ‘forest walks near me’ your autumn afternoons won’t be boring! You can wander around forests littered with crunchy leaves, explore trees of all shapes and sizes and open your ears to all sorts of animal calls.

In the mood for some more outdoor activities? We’ve got lots for you – visit some waterfalls in Cornwall, travel deep under and explore some caves, zoom down the Snowdonia zip wire or have a go at football golf!