Adventure for all in England’s forest playgrounds
|As big lovers of the outdoors and all things nature (check out our favourite nature crafts), how can I refuse to share some information about the fabulous Forestry Commission? (NOTE: This is NOT a paid for post in anyway).
VisitEngland, the national tourist board, Forestry Commission England and national partners Go Ape Forest Adventure, Forest Holidays and Camping in the Forest, have launched the More in the Forest campaign to promote summer holidays in and around England’s woods and forests (Visit www.forestry.gov.uk/more for information).
From award-winning mountain bike trails to adventures in the treetops and all-terrain forest segways, there are plenty of adrenalin pumping-activities to enjoy within the huge natural playground of Forestry Commission England woodlands this summer.
The Forestry Commission manages around 1500 woods and forests across England, including over 1000km of cycle track, forest roads and bike parks dotted through the rugged landscape. Red and black trails, steep slopes and tricky corners will challenge the most expert of riders, whilst green trails are perfect for family outings. Bikes are available to hire at many Forestry Commission sites.
How about releasing your inner monkey for the day? With zip wires and canopy crossings, Go Ape Tree Top Adventure or Tree Top Junior offers hours of fun and plenty of laughs. Go Ape also provide Forest Segway experiences – a unique way to tackle the varied terrain of the forest floor.
Fancy trekking through the trees? Delamere Forest Park, Sherwood Pines and the New Forest are great locations to discover on horseback. For those who prefer water to terra firma, head over to Kielder Forest and Water Park where you can canoe, sail and water ski to your heart’s content in a unique forest environment.
For a cost effective and fun break, why not stay at one of Camping in the Forest’s campsites and take your family or friends tree climbing and den building in the heart of the forest? Whether you’re looking to go completely wild on a no -acility site, or are looking for something a little more comfortable, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning surroundings in a way that suits you.
Paddy Harrop, Recreation and Public Affairs Manager, Forestry Commission, commented:
“I used to climb trees and make dens as a boy – and it’s great that I can enjoy this with my kids now. They love using their imagination and I always feel happy knowing that my family are getting close to nature and having fun at the same time.”
Many Forestry Commission sites organise sessions on den building, pond dipping and survival kills. Take a look at the Forestry Commission England events page for more information – www.forestry.gov.uk/events.
There’s so much more to enjoy in England’s woodlands. Why not branch out and discover a new one next time? Just look for the Forestry Commission sign and you’ll be guaranteed a great day out.
So what do you think? Look fun? Do go and have a look and see what you could do with your family!
We live in Dorset and we love the New Forest and Wareham Forest. The dogs do, as well and if you find flat bits cycling is great fun, bouncy and adventurous. And it is free!!! We love free. Den making is a particular favourite of our kids and they think it is very funny when the dogs take up lodgings in their newly built accomodation.
Moors Valley is near us as well. You do have to pay for parking and they like you to take your rubbish home but it has great playgrounds, a narrow gauge train, walks in the woods, Go Ape, a climbing trail, picnic areas and is beautiful. Doggly hounds are very welcome as well. As long as….when you come back from a walk in the woods you manage to snare the very cheeky border collie BEFORE he jumps in the pond to make friends with the swans. Who hate him. In the middle of summer. In the middle of the day. Next to the picnic area. Dog them went temporarily deaf to his name. Oh, the shame! Lol. It is funny now but at the time…..