Grizedale Forest
Grizedale Forest
Fun for the whole family can be had at Grizedale Forest, an expansive woodland that stretches between Coniston Water and Lake Windermere, providing a refuge for wildlife.
Popular amongst enthusiasts of outdoor pursuits the forest is brimming with opportunities for adventure, whilst those who prefer gentler activities will enjoy peaceful woodland walks and a trip to the café.
Planning Your Visit
Things To See
Spectacular views can be found amongst Grizedale’s walking trails. Eight carefully designed routes range in difficulty from easy to hard. The Millwood trail in particular is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs and will take you pass trees that are over 100 years old. The Carron Crag trail will take you to the highest point of the forest with views across to Morecambe Bay.
Mountain Bikes are available to hire from Grizedale Mountain Bikes, located within the visitor centre, and the collection available for hire includes bikes for children, trailers for babies / toddlers, and electric bikes. There are eight marked mountain bike trails at the Forest, ranging in difficulty from moderate to hard, including The North Face Mountain Bike Trail, which is packed with thrilling descents.
Whilst out walking or biking, you may spot one or more of the Grizedale Sculptures, a collection of over 40 pieces of artwork placed at various points around the forest created in the last 30 years by leading international artists, with more added every few years. You may also spot wildlife in the area, including the elusive Red Deer, Red Kites, and Barn Owls.
Go Ape operate a high ropes course at Grizedale, which features an 18-metre high tree top platform and a 200-metre long zip wire across Grizedale Beck. There is a course especially designed for younger children (over one-metre tall), and you can also hire Segways for using in the forest from here.
The visitor centre hosts regular events throughout the year, including craft activities. For children, there is an adventure play area and each year the forest is home to a special themed trail that uses characters from popular children’s tales, including the Highway Rat and Superworm.
Useful Information
At the visitor centre you will find a café serving hot and cold meals, a shop with locally made gifts, toilets, and picnic area. Maps and guides for the walking and biking trails are available to purchase in the shop.
Entrance to the forest is free but there is a charge for parking that is quite expensive compared to other car parks in the area, with the funds going towards maintaining the forest. You can pay for your parking online in advance.
The visitor centre is fully accessible for wheelchair users.