Visit & Explore
The National Forest is one of Britain’s boldest environmental projects to create a new forest for the nation across 200 square miles and embracing parts of Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire. In just over ten years, more than seven million trees have been planted and the woodland cover has almost trebled.
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: 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.
- 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.
- Read more: Cycling
Horse-riding
There are lots of woodland sites across the Forest that offer bridleways and other facilities for horse-riders.
Forest Experiences
Experience the ‘real’ Forest with our woodland crafts, Forest arts and bushcraft survival schools.
- Read more: Forest Experiences
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
Where to Stay
At the end of a long day exploring the National Forest, why not relax in one of our cosy village pubs, a friendly guesthouse or comfortable hotel? Or perhaps you would prefer the camaraderie of a campsite or youth hostel or maybe the luxury of a pampering health spa to ease away those aches and pains!
- Read more: Where to stay
Events
Throughout the year, The National Forest hosts an array of events that attract visitors from around the world. These include the ancient art of ‘Well Dressing’ celebrations, the ‘unmissable’ scarecrow festivals, classical concerts, folk festivals, theatrical events, arts and crafts shows, regattas, canal festivals and much more.
- Read more: Events
Are you holding a forthcoming event in The National Forest?
- Add more: Add your event...
Read more: Where is The National Forest? |
Read more: Growing Forest |
10 Oct 2008
Small is Beautiful - Help is at hand to create small woodlands in The National Forest
Anyone with land in The National Forest and who wants to create a woodland or plant just a small number of trees can contact the National Forest Company (NFC) for help and advice. And this is just the time of year to be thinking about it.
10 Oct 2008
Celebrating Success with The National Forest
“As a merchant that sells ‘green’ products for domestic use, we wanted to celebrate the opening of our 300th branch in a sustainable way,” explained Alan Ball, Managing Director of Plumbing Trade Supplies (PTS), at a National Forest Company event last week. “Our head office is in Lutterworth, so supporting The National Forest is the perfect option.”
Find more articles: News
15 Oct 2008
Forest Arts - Draw the Forest Floor with Vivienne Cawson
Swadlincote, Derbyshire
Observing natural forms such as seed heads, twigs, acorns and bark you will develop your pencil drawings.
19 Oct 2008
Ibstock, Leicestershire
Join a Ranger on this guided walk looking at the different trees growing on site, and talking about their uses and myths surrounding them.
Find more: Events
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Get involved
Be part of The National Forest's creation and get involved:
National Forest Company, Enterprise Glade, Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA.
Email
Telephone +44 (0)1283 551211
Fax +44 (0)1283 552844