Britain’s Favourite Family Friendly Forests Revealed: From Gruffalos to Giant Views

The team at woodlands.co.uk have chosen five of their favourite public forests across the UK, from magical Gruffalo trails and family cycling routes to breath-taking viewpoints, accessible paths and welcoming cafés.

Anton Baskerville, woodlands.co.uk said: "Woodlands are one of Britain's greatest free family attractions. They encourage children to use their imagination, get active and connect with nature, while offering parents and grandparents a chance to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest, Kent - recommend by woodlands.co.uk South East Managers Ruth and James Feltham.

Bedgebury combines one of the UK's finest collections of trees with fantastic facilities for families.

The forest offers miles of cycling trails, bike hire, accessible walking routes, mobility scooter hire, family play areas and a lakeside café. It's particularly popular with multi-generational families looking for an outdoor adventure everyone can enjoy.

Ruth's Top Tip: The lakeside areas are ideal for a picnic before finishing the day with coffee and cake from the visitor centre café.

Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire - recommend by Central England woodlands.co.uk Manager Daniel Sharp.

High in the Chiltern Hills, Wendover Woods offers some of the most impressive woodland views in southern England.

Families can enjoy accessible walking routes, adventure play areas, cycling trails and panoramic viewpoints stretching across the countryside. The woodland café makes an ideal stop after exploring.

Daniel’s Top Tip: Head to the viewpoints in the late afternoon when the light across the Chilterns is particularly beautiful.

Haldon Forest Park, Devon - recommend by woodlands.co.uk Devon Manager Stuart Brooking.

Families with younger children often struggle to find woodland trails suitable for little legs and pushchairs. Haldon Forest Park solves that problem brilliantly.

The forest offers buggy-friendly routes, family cycling trails, wildlife walks, adventure play areas and excellent facilities. There are also themed activity trails throughout the year to keep younger visitors engaged.

Stuart's Top Tip: Pack a picnic as well as enjoying the café – there are some fantastic spots to stop and take in the views.

Beechenhurst, Forest of Dean - recommend by woodlands.co.uk Regional Manager for East Anglia Chris Wiggins.

The Forest of Dean has long been one of Britain's most loved woodland destinations, and Beechenhurst sits at its heart.

Families can follow the famous Sculpture Trail, where artworks emerge unexpectedly from the woodland, creating a magical treasure-hunt atmosphere for children. Add in cycling routes, play areas and woodland walks, and it's easy to see why it remains a favourite.

Chris's Top Tip: Turn the Sculpture Trail into a family challenge by seeing who can spot each artwork first.

Grizedale Forest, Cumbria - recommend by David and Sarah Alty, who cover Cumbria, Northumbria and Southern Scotland for woodlands.co.uk.

Set among the spectacular landscapes of the Lake District, Grizedale combines woodland exploration with some of Britain's most breath-taking scenery.

Families can enjoy walking trails, cycling routes, outdoor sculptures, mountain views and a visitor centre café. It's ideal for older children looking for a little more adventure and families wanting to experience the dramatic beauty of the Lakes.

Sarah's Top Tip: Bring binoculars, the elevated sections of the forest offer some wonderful opportunities for wildlife spotting.

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Editors notes

Founded with a mission to make woodland ownership accessible and enjoyable, Woodlands.co.uk offers private woodlands for sale across the UK. The company provides resources and guidance for new owners to explore creative ways of managing their woodlands for personal and community benefit. Whether for conservation, leisure, or environmental education, Woodlands.co.uk empowers individuals to steward and protect their woodlands for generations to come.