Why Grizedale Forest is an Amazing Place to Visit this Winter

While the Lake District is often seen as a spring and summer destination for holidaymakers, during the winter is a magical place with plenty to do. From Christmas fairs to amazing walks and boat rides on the lakes, it’s the perfect location for a short break.

Cottage Holidays Lake District

One of the most popular places to visit this time of year is the Grizedale Forest. Located in the heart of the Lake District, this World Heritage Site not only offers stunning scenery with plenty of hikes for people of all levels but a host of activities for all the family too. You can also find local holiday cottages near Grizedale making visiting that much easier. We have two perfect cottages on the door step of Grizedale Forest, Waingarth Cottage and Low Bowkerstead Cottage

Visit www.coppermines.co.uk to find the perfect holiday cottage for you.

Forest Adventures Lake District

Here we take a closer look at why you should visit Grizedale this winter.

Grizedale Walks

With names like Bogle Crag Trail and the Silurian Way, it’s no surprise that there are some magical walks around the forest. In late autumn when there are still leaves on the trees and into winter, the landscape becomes rather stunning. It’s even better when there’s snow on the ground. These locations are even more spectacular if you’re out in the early morning or evening when the low sun makes everything look so dramatic.

Most of the walks are suitable for people of all abilities. The steep circular walk of Carron Crag which gives you a bird’s eye view of the surrounding Lake District is probably the hardest, with some intense climbing to do.

There are nine set walks in all, and they range from 2 to 6 miles and can be completed in the morning or afternoon. There are also plenty of picnic spots to stop at and admire the scenery while having something to eat. 

Bike Trails

Along with walking, there are also some amazing bike trails in Grizedale Forest. The Goosey Foot Trail is popular with parents and smaller children and runs for a couple of miles around two tarns.

If you’re a more expert mountain biker and want something challenging, the Black MTB Trail is a good choice and is physically demanding, particularly during the winter months. Whether you like a gentle cycle through forest canopies or want to challenge yourself with a professional mountain bike trail, there’s something for everyone here and it’s less congested during the winter months.

Art Exhibitions

It’s not all about fresh air and exercise in Grizedale Forest. The area has a reputation for supporting artistic activities and there are exhibitions held at the Forestry Commission Visitors Centre in Hawkshead throughout the year. Displays include traditional painting and sculpture, often by local artists and they are well worth a visit over the winter.

Ape Tree Top Challenges

For the more energetic, especially if you have kids in tow, Grizedale Forest is home to the Ape Tree Top Challenge. With rope ladders and zip wires, there’s enough fun to be had here to last a whole day.  Kids do have to be over 10 years old and it’s always a good idea to book beforehand.

Grizedale Forest is just a small part of what the Lake District has to offer during the winter months. There are some truly spectacular views to be seen at this time of year and one thing is for sure, you won’t be disappointed.