Grizedale Forest & Visitor Centre

About

Come and discover all that Grizedale has to offer – take in Lake District landscapes, experience a whole range of contemporary art and enjoy an adventure, no matter your age!

Nestling right in the heart of the Lake District between Windermere and Coniston, Grizedale Forest offers a full range of activities from gentle walks to swinging through the trees with GoApe, from a leisurely meal in the café to exhilarating mountain bike trails. Whatever you’re looking for, our friendly visitor staff are happy to help you plan your perfect day.

Explore our eight waymarked walking trails, including the easy-access Ridding Wood trail to the more strenuous Silurian Way taking in the summit of Carron Crag. For those who are less mobile we also have a Tramper available to hire as well as a specially designed route to help open the forest to as many as possible.

For smaller legs there’s always an adventure – check our website for details of our latest trails featuring iconic characters from the magical world of Julia Donaldson!

Cyclists can enjoy the North Face single-track mountain bike trail as well as other routes and miles for forest road, perfect for getting you into the heart of the forest.

 

Sculpture in the forest

Did you know that Grizedale is the UK’s first forest for sculpture? Over 50 unique artworks have been scattered throughout the trees. Whether you’re exploring on two wheels, by foot or on horseback keep your eyes peeled for sculptures dotted throughout the forest from some of the country’s leading artists including Andy Goldsworthy, Sally Matthews and Richard Harris. Part of the forest and blending into the trees and natural scenery, be sure to take the time to enjoy these world-class art pieces in a truly unique setting.

Our visitor centre gallery space hosts amazing art exhibitions designed to make you stop, think and consider. Discover current and upcoming exhibitions on our website.

 

Get back to nature

Grizedale is a haven for wildlife. We’re home to the only remaining indigenous woodland herd of red deer in England as well as roe deer, buzzards, barn owls and red kites. Look out for all the forest wildlife on your walk or bike ride.

The forest is a fantastic place to see butterflies and dragonflies in the summer and its many tarns attract other species to drink including foxes and badgers.

Please note:

Mountain biking - Due to storm damage the Black bike route and most sections of the North Face Trail remain closed. All forest roads are now open. See latest information here.

Tramper trail – Due to storm damage the Tramper trail is currently not accessible. Please find the latest information on the Grizedale Forest website Here.