The National Forest

• Visit & Explore
• Short Breaks
• Events
• Walks
• Food Guide
• Group Visits
• Interactive Map
• Where to stay
• How to get here
• Green Getaways
• Tourist Information
• Cyclinginfo
• Forest Experiences
• Places to Visit
• Spotting wildlife

Things to see and do

Places to visit

With family friendly attractions and hands-on activities, historic houses and industrial heritage attractions which bring the area’s rich history to life, the National Forest & Beyond is packed with things to see and do – whatever the weather!

• Read more: Discover the fantastic places to visit.

Walks

The National Forest contains more than 400 new and ancient woodlands and around 90% of the woodlands created have public access, welcoming visitors to wander through the woods, explore and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Walk among a sea of snowdrops in February, a blanket of bluebells in May or through the Forest's fiery displays of reds and golds in Autumn.

• Read more: Walks

Cycling

The National Forest has a network of quiet country lanes and cycling trails.

There are also several cycle hire shops across the Forest.

Riding through The National Forest is not only beautiful, but also rewarding keeping you fit and healthy

• Read more: Cycle trails in the Forest - including cycle hire details.

Forest Experiences

Experience the ‘real’ Forest with our woodland crafts, Forest arts and bushcraft survival schools.

• Read more: Forest Experiences

Horse-riding

What better way to explore The National Forest than on horseback? There are lots of woodland sites across the Forest that offer bridleways and other facilities for horse-riders. And new trails are always opening as The National Forest continues to develop the bridleway network through the new woodland created.

• Order your copy of The National Forest Horse-riding Guide

• The National Forest Horse-riding Guide

Spotting the wildlife

The development of The National Forest offers unprecedented opportunities to create and enhance a wide range of wildlife habitats.

This means that The National Forest is the ideal place to see plants and animals in the wild. From spring displays of wildflowers to the changing colours of woodlands in autumn, there is something to see throughout the year.

There are also a wide range of sites and locations to visit within The National Forest to take advantage of these wildlife habitats. A full list, and additional information can be found within The National Forest Biodiversity Action Plan.

• Read more: Creation of new habitats in The National Forest Biodiversity Action Plan

The creation of The National Forest is transforming the landscape across 200 square miles of the Midlands, creating new areas for wildlife every year.

• Read more: Nature Conservation

Access for all

Many woodland footpaths have been specifically designed to enable access for all. The National Forest Company has compiled a guide with walks that are accessible for all users including wheelchair users and people with prams and pushchairs.

• Read more: Access for all
• Order: Access for All Guide