
Guisborough Forest and Walkway
A beautiful woodland escape with diverse trails, a fun play park, and stunning views from Roseberry Topping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, family fun

Guisborough Forest and Walkway
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, family fun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful woodland escape with diverse trails, a fun play park, and stunning views from Roseberry Topping.
"A great kids park with plenty of stuff for them to play on and keep them entertained."

🚶♀️ Trail Variety
Choose trails from short and easy to challenging hikes like Roseberry Topping. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the cafe's amazing cakes and coffee, with gluten-free options available. :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sculpture Trail Adventure
Various points along the walkway
Discover fascinating carvings and sculptures hidden along the trails, adding an artistic touch to your nature walk.

Roseberry Topping Views
Accessible from the walkway
Hike to the iconic Roseberry Topping for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding moors and forests.

Captain Cook's Monument
Near Roseberry Topping
Visit the monument dedicated to local explorer Captain James Cook, offering historical insight and more stunning vistas.

Children's Play Area
Near the visitor center
An exciting park with plenty of play equipment to keep younger visitors entertained for hours.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Family Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Trail Variety
Choose trails from short and easy to challenging hikes like Roseberry Topping. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the cafe's amazing cakes and coffee, with gluten-free options available. :coffee:
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware there's a small charge for parking, so have change ready. :parking:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot for dog walks, with plenty of space for your furry friends to explore. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Trail Variety
Choose trails from short and easy to challenging hikes like Roseberry Topping. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the cafe's amazing cakes and coffee, with gluten-free options available. :coffee:
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware there's a small charge for parking, so have change ready. :parking:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot for dog walks, with plenty of space for your furry friends to explore. :dog:
🌳 Nature's Art
Keep an eye out for the unique sculptures dotted along the paths. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Guisborough Forest and Walkway, highlighting its suitability for families and dog owners with its excellent play park and scenic trails. The on-site cafe is a popular spot for refreshments, and the opportunity to hike to Roseberry Topping offers breathtaking views. While parking has a small fee, the overall experience is considered excellent value and a beautiful place to spend a day.
"Well worth it.
There was plenty to do with the kids and plenty of open spaces. Most of the trail was friendly with a pushchair.
Had a great kids park with plenty of stuff for them to play on and keep them entertained. Lots of benches and places to sit if you need to rest or are having a picnic.
The trail itself leads into a bunch of directions, and there's plenty to explore a good way to spend a hot day and get some exercise.
The cafe on site served lovely food and coffee.
Would definitely recommend this place if you're thinking of taking the kids out for the day and don't want to spend a fortune or even if you want somewhere nice to just walk the dog."
Dale M
"Beautiful walk. Can make it as long or as short as you desire. I walked from here to Roseberry Topping then onto captain cooks monument. Fabulous views. Fantastic trails. Goes on for miles! It also has a lovely little coffee shop thats sells the most amazing cakes 😁 Plenty of parking but there is a small charge for this."
Kelly
"Sunday 22nd June
Good parking available, plenty of walks great carvings and sculptures.
Cafe and toilets on site
Well worth a visit and spending some time there."
Alan Holmes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Guisborough Forest and Walkway is easily accessible by car, with a dedicated car park available for visitors. It's located near Guisborough town. For those using public transport, local bus services can take you close to the forest entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at Guisborough Forest. A small fee applies, so it's advisable to have some change with you. The parking area is conveniently located near the main attractions and trails.
Absolutely! Guisborough Forest has dedicated cycling trails, making it a popular destination for cyclists. You can cycle to the forest, and there are often bike racks available near the visitor center.
While driving is the most common way to reach Guisborough Forest, local bus routes do serve the Guisborough area. You may need to walk a short distance from the bus stop to the forest entrance.
The nearest major train stations are typically in Middlesbrough or Stockton-on-Tees. From these stations, you would need to arrange onward travel via bus or taxi to reach Guisborough Forest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Guisborough Forest and its walkways is generally free. However, there is a charge for parking. So, while you don't need tickets to enter, be prepared for the parking fee.
Guisborough Forest is typically open year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center and cafe may have specific operating times, which are best checked directly.
No, the children's play area within Guisborough Forest is free to use. It's a fantastic amenity for families looking for entertainment for younger visitors.
Picnic spots are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are many open spaces and designated picnic areas throughout the forest, so booking isn't usually required.
While official guided tours might not be a regular offering, the well-marked trails and informative sculptures provide a self-guided experience. Local community groups or Forestry England might occasionally host events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Guisborough Forest offers a variety of walks, from gentle, pushchair-friendly trails to more challenging routes leading to Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook's Monument. There are also specific kids' trails with nature facts.
Yes, Guisborough Forest has on-site toilets and a cafe that serves lovely food, coffee, and cakes, including gluten-free options.
Absolutely! It's highly recommended for families, with a great kids' park, open spaces for play, and well-marked trails that are often pushchair-friendly.
Yes, Guisborough Forest is very dog-friendly. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, offering plenty of space for them to enjoy.
Key attractions include the sculpture trail, the opportunity to hike to Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook's Monument, a children's play area, and the scenic walking and cycling paths.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Guisborough Forest that offers a selection of food and drinks. Visitors often praise their coffee and cakes.
The cafe typically serves light meals, snacks, and beverages. They are known for their delicious cakes and also offer gluten-free options, making it accommodating for various dietary needs.
Definitely! Guisborough Forest has plenty of open spaces and designated areas perfect for picnics. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery while having a meal.
While specific menus can vary, cafes in such locations often have vegetarian options. It's always best to check with the cafe directly for the most up-to-date information on vegan or specific dietary choices.
Reviews suggest the cafe offers reasonably priced food and coffee, making it an affordable option for visitors. It's generally considered good value for the quality and location.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography spots include the panoramic views from Roseberry Topping, the iconic Captain Cook's Monument, the artistic sculptures along the trails, and the lush forest landscapes themselves.
Yes, Guisborough Forest is excellent for landscape photography, especially from elevated points like Roseberry Topping, offering sweeping views of the Yorkshire Moors and surrounding countryside.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) often provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, but offers good visibility for details.
The unique sculptures scattered throughout the forest offer quirky and artistic photo opportunities. The contrast between the natural environment and these man-made art pieces is visually interesting.
Drone usage is often subject to regulations and permissions, especially in managed forests. It's advisable to check with Forestry England or local authorities regarding drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to utilize the on-site cafe for snacks and drinks, especially their highly-praised cakes (with gluten-free options available!). Ample open spaces are perfect for picnics and letting kids burn off energy. It’s an affordable and engaging way to spend a day outdoors.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and other visitors. The cafe is also a welcoming spot, and many visitors appreciate being able to bring their well-behaved dogs along.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the woodland environment and the opportunity to connect with the landscape. Consider extending your walk to Captain Cook's Monument for a historical perspective and even more stunning vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the routes leading to Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook's Monument are highly recommended. These climbs offer rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding Yorkshire Moors and coastline. Cyclists will also find dedicated trails, making it a popular spot for mountain biking. Whether you're looking for a short family outing or a full day of exploration, the extensive trail system ensures you can tailor your visit to your preferences.
Key takeaway: The variety of trails ensures that Guisborough Forest is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from families with young children to seasoned hikers and cyclists. Don't forget to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan on tackling the steeper inclines.
Family Adventures and Amenities
The on-site cafe is another significant plus for families, providing a convenient place to refuel with food and drinks. Visitors often highlight the quality of the coffee and cakes, noting that gluten-free options are available, which is a thoughtful touch for families with dietary considerations. The presence of toilets also adds to the convenience, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
Family Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty, or treat the kids to a special cake from the cafe after a fun-filled play session. The well-marked trails also make it easy to keep track of little ones while exploring the natural surroundings.
Art and History Encounters
For those interested in local history, the proximity to Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook's Monument is a major draw. The monument, dedicated to the famous explorer born nearby, offers a connection to the area's rich past and provides further opportunities for exploration and photography. The combination of natural landscapes, artistic expression, and historical landmarks makes Guisborough Forest a multifaceted destination.
Must-See: Take your time to seek out the various sculptures; they are often cleverly integrated into the natural environment and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit