Grizedale Forest
A Lake District woodland haven blending art, adventure, and nature with sculpture trails, cycling, and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Grizedale Forest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Lake District woodland haven blending art, adventure, and nature with sculpture trails, cycling, and family fun.
"A beautiful place for dog walks and to see birds in the trees."
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring .
Check Go Ape status :warning:
Storms can damage trees and close the course. Always check their website or social media before your visit .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grizedale Sculpture Trail
Throughout the forest
Discover unique art installations nestled within the woodland, offering a blend of nature and creativity.
Go Ape Treetop Adventure
Go Ape Grizedale
Challenge yourself on high ropes courses and zip lines amidst the forest canopy. A thrilling experience for adventurers!
Cycling and Mountain Biking
Marked trails and bridleways
Explore diverse terrain, from family-friendly routes to challenging mountain bike trails like Three Witches .
+1
Adventure Playground
Near the Visitor Centre
A fantastic spot for kids to burn energy with swings, slides, and climbing frames in a natural setting .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around Grizedale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Check Go Ape status :warning:
Storms can damage trees and close the course. Always check their website or social media before your visit.
Dog-friendly exploration :dog:
Grizedale is great for dogs, with many off-lead opportunities on designated trails.
Sculpture hunting fun :camera_with_flash:
Bring your camera to capture the unique art installations scattered throughout the forest.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Check Go Ape status :warning:
Storms can damage trees and close the course. Always check their website or social media before your visit.
Dog-friendly exploration :dog:
Grizedale is great for dogs, with many off-lead opportunities on designated trails.
Sculpture hunting fun :camera_with_flash:
Bring your camera to capture the unique art installations scattered throughout the forest.
Bike hire available :bike:
Rent bikes at the visitor centre for a day of exploring the extensive cycling networks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Grizedale Forest for its beautiful woodland walks, diverse art installations, and excellent cycling opportunities. It's a great spot for dog owners and families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure away from the busier Lake District peaks. Some find the parking expensive and certain family cycling routes less engaging than expected.
"Great place for a dog walk. The Wallace and Gromit walk especially! We took out two working cocker spaniels and they loved it. Great view when you reach the highest point. The staff are very welcoming and helpful too👍"
Rachel Evans
"Really nice for a long hike, lots of quiet, scenic forest trails that were well maintained and sign posted, linked up between short patches of gravel roads for forestry access and bikes.
It's not the sort of place you go to the lake district for, but I'm glad I gave it a chance between the big lakes and popular fells, because it was nice to go somewhere I could feel like I'm not surrounded on all sides.
There was plenty of parking, there's the main car park which is pay and display, and smaller ones around which are free but a long walk to the visitors center if that's what you're there for.
The visitors center is more like a visitors complex, I didn't spend much time there as I passed through, but there was almost everything you need including shops, bike hire, a cafe, information center and go ape.
It was great for dogs off lead almost all the way around the 10 mile trail. Some of the trails were not accessible to mobility scooters, but there were accessible trails as well which were well maintained."
Adele Waldrom
"A lot of trees down around Breasty Haw bridleway after Storm Arwen, but otherwise not too bad. Parkamoor descent access is clear now if a bit rutted and boggy from the big forestry machinery that's been clearing over the last few days. The views across Coniston to the old Man and Dow Crags are amazing."
Erik Blackwood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Public transport to Grizedale Forest can be challenging. While trains reach Windermere, bus connections to Grizedale are scarce. You might need to take a bus to Hawkshead and then face a significant walk. Cycling or driving are generally more convenient options.
Yes, there are several parking areas. The main visitor centre has a pay-and-display car park, while smaller car parks around the forest are free but may be a longer walk to the centre.
Grizedale Forest is well-connected by cycling routes, including National Cycle Network Route 6. You can cycle from nearby areas like Hawkshead or Windermere, enjoying scenic paths.
Grizedale Forest is located in the heart of the Lake District. From the M6 motorway, take Junction 36 and follow signs for the A590 towards Barrow-in-Furness, then take the A5092 and B5285 towards Grizedale. It's well-signposted from the main roads.
While some trails are not accessible, Grizedale Forest does offer well-maintained accessible trails suitable for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Grizedale Forest itself is free. However, parking at the main visitor centre is pay-and-display, and activities like Go Ape require separate booking and payment.
Grizedale Forest is generally open year-round during daylight hours. The Visitor Centre, cafe, and Go Ape have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official websites.
Parking fees vary. The main visitor centre car park is pay-and-display and can be quite pricey. Some smaller car parks around the forest are free, but may require a longer walk to the main attractions.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Go Ape adventure in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Discounts may be available for certain activities like Go Ape during off-peak times or for group bookings. Check the respective attraction websites for current offers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Grizedale Forest offers a great adventure playground,
There are numerous walking trails for all abilities, from easy strolls to longer hikes. The sculpture trails are a highlight, and routes like the Wallace and Gromit walk are popular with families.
Absolutely! Grizedale Forest boasts an excellent network of bridleways and marked mountain biking trails, including challenging red routes and classic Lake District trails like Three Witches.
The Grizedale Forest Art Trail features a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures and art installations integrated into the natural landscape, offering a unique cultural experience.
Yes, several points within the forest offer stunning views, particularly across Coniston Water towards the Old Man of Coniston and Dow Crags, especially from higher elevations like Breasty Haw.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at the Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre, offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
Picnicking is a great option in Grizedale Forest. There are many scenic spots throughout the woodland where you can set up a picnic blanket and enjoy your own food.
The nearest villages, such as Hawkshead and Satterthwaite, offer a selection of traditional pubs and cafes. For a wider range of dining options, you would need to travel to larger towns like Windermere or Ambleside.
The cafe typically serves a range of hot and cold drinks, cakes, sandwiches, and light meals. It's a good place to grab a coffee or a bite to eat after exploring.
Besides the cafe at the visitor centre, there might be limited options for snacks or drinks depending on the season and specific facilities open. It's advisable to bring your own if you plan on a long excursion.
📸 📸 Photography
Grizedale Forest offers numerous photographic opportunities, from the intricate details of the sculptures The changing light filtering through the trees is also a popular subject.
Yes, the forest provides varied landscapes, including woodland scenes, open clearings, and panoramic views. Autumn, with its vibrant foliage, is particularly stunning for landscape photographers.
You might spot various bird species in the trees, and with luck, some smaller mammals. The forest is a haven for nature, offering chances for wildlife photography if you're patient.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permission from the Forestry England. Always be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Golden hour can be particularly magical in the forest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Explore the sculpture trails for a unique treasure hunt experience, and choose from a variety of easy walking and cycling routes suitable for all ages.+1 The forest provides a safe and engaging environment for children to connect with nature, away from the more challenging fells.🚴 Cyclists and Mountain Bikers
+1 Whether you're looking for a leisurely family ride or an adrenaline-pumping descent, Grizedale has something for you. Bike hire is available at the visitor centre.🚶♀️ Dog Owners
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Wander through the woodland to find a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures integrated into the landscape. It's a refreshing experience that adds a cultural layer to your visit, offering plenty of opportunities for creative photography.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Grizedale Forest by Bike
+1 These paths wind through the woodland, offering beautiful views and a chance to explore at a relaxed pace.More experienced riders will find a wealth of challenging mountain biking trails and bridleways. Grizedale is renowned for its technical descents and climbs, including famous routes like 'Three Witches' and 'Bacon Slicer'.
+1 These trails are often described as classic Lake District riding, offering an adrenaline-fueled adventure. It's worth noting that some of these trails can be demanding and may require advanced riding skills. Always be aware of other users on the trails, including walkers and horse riders.Bike hire is available at the Grizedale Visitor Centre, making it easy for those who don't have their own equipment to enjoy the extensive cycling network.
Remember to check trail conditions, especially after adverse weather, as storms can sometimes cause temporary closures or damage.The Unique Grizedale Art Experience
This integration of art and nature creates a truly immersive experience. As you walk or cycle through the forest, you'll stumble upon these creative interventions, prompting reflection and adding an unexpected dimension to your exploration. It's a fantastic way to engage with both the natural beauty and the artistic spirit of the Lake District.
The sculptures are often made from natural materials or designed to complement their surroundings, making them a fascinating discovery on any visit.While the art is a permanent feature, the collection evolves over time with new installations and the natural weathering of existing pieces. It's a dynamic exhibition that rewards repeat visits. Keep an eye out for specific artworks that resonate with you, and enjoy the surprise of finding them nestled amongst the trees.
Family Adventures in Grizedale Forest
It's a safe and engaging environment for them to burn off energy while parents can relax nearby.Beyond the playground, the forest offers numerous walking trails that are suitable for younger legs. The popular Gruffalo trail, although sometimes lacking characters, provides a fun narrative for a family stroll.
The sculpture trail also adds an element of discovery, turning a walk into a treasure hunt for art. For active families, the gentler cycling routes offer a chance to explore the forest together on two wheels.With a cafe for refreshments and plenty of open spaces for picnics, Grizedale Forest is well-equipped for a family day out. It provides a wonderful alternative to the more strenuous mountain hikes often associated with the Lake District, offering a more relaxed yet equally engaging outdoor experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit