Great Things to Do in Grizedale Forest

The Lake District is an amazing place to visit and there are hundreds of attractions for all the family. Whether you love hiking in the hills or love a relaxing boat ride on one of the many lakes, it can be a challenge to fit everything in on your first visit.

Cottages Near Grizedale Forest

If you love Grizedale forest as much as we do, then getting a cottage near the forest or in neighbouring Coniston is the best base for your Lake District holiday and The Coppermines has the best selection of gorgeous cottages of all sizes in this area.

One of the most popular places in the region is Grizedale Forest, home to wonderful walks and a whole lot of wildlife.

Where is Grizedale?

Covering just over 24 m², Grizedale Forest is a Forestry England park situated to the east of Coniston Water and is steeped in nature and history. It’s the perfect location to visit any time of year but is especially busy during the spring and summer.

Grizedale and Nature

Whether you’re walking or cycling through the forest, you need to keep your eyes peeled for the brilliant wildlife in the area. It’s one of the few places left in the UK where red squirrels run free but you’ll see the odd red deer (especially early in the morning) and red kites flying above as well.

The forest is also home to badgers and foxes as well as a colourful array of butterflies and dragonflies. This area is a favourite with nature lovers, artists and wildlife photographers from around the world.

Cycling Paths

For the energetic holidaymaker who likes to get on their bike, Grizedale Forest has 4 amazing trails for people of all ages and abilities. The shortest route is the Goosey Foot Tarn Trail which runs for about 2 miles and has slight hills but nothing too difficult. The Mushroom Cycle Trail is a little longer and is a fun place for the kids as you’ll see wooden mushrooms placed strategically along the route.

If you want something that is going to tax you a little bit more, both the Hawkshead Moor and North Face MTB trails are around 10 miles each and run through some challenging terrain. The views, however, are well worth the effort.

Walking in Grizedale Forest

You can decide to take potluck and just head into the forest or you can follow some of the amazing trails if hiking is your thing. For families with younger children, the Ridding Wood walk is about a mile and is easily accessible. If you’re a fan of the children’s book Swallows and Amazon, then the one and half miles of Machell’s Coppice Trail is going to be right up your street as it was Arthur Ransom’s inspiration.

There are other set trails including the more challenging Carron Crag Circular which runs about 3 miles and includes a steep climb up to the top of Grizedale. Again, the views of Coniston and the surrounding area are stunning.

Nights in Grizedale

If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, visiting the forest at night is an experience not to be missed. On a clear night, you get very good views of the stars and around August time you’ll be able to make out the Milky Way.

In addition to walking and cycling, Grizedale is also home to some family fun including Go Ape Treetop Adventures and you can find more attractions by visiting the local visitor centre.