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From peaceful woodland walks, gentle cycling and fun-packed activities to historic houses, hands-on visitor centres and sparkling lakes, there are masses of attractions to pack into your visit!
There is just so much to see and do - woodland walks, superb cycling, brilliant activities and loads of attractions to pack into your visit! So why not get out there and start enjoying The National Forest. You could make a weekend of it and see where there is to stay using the map.
Walk among a sea of snowdrops in February, a blanket of bluebells in May or through the Forest's fiery displays of reds and golds in Autumn. Download fantastic walks across the three counties of the Forest - Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
Short walks
Walks up to 5 miles.
Medium walks
Walks from 5 to 10 miles.
Long walks
Walks over 10 miles.
Access for all
Specifically designed sites and attractions that are suitable for all abilities.
They include details of path surfaces and gradients; toilets and other facilities; inc. parking for the disabled.
Further reading:
Cycling sites
There are many Forest sites suitable for cycling.
Cycle hire
Hiring a bike couldn't be easier.
Cycle clubs
Contact our local cycling and triathlon clubs.
Find out more on Cycle Routes
Survival skills and woodland crafts
The National Forest is one of the few places that you can have a go at ancient woodland crafts with Greenwood Days. Try pole lathe turning, willow weaving or making coracles, which date back thousands of years.
Our three survival schools show you how to make fire using flint or just wood, how to build shelters and identify plants and trees essential for survival in woodland. Find out more details and course dates for Woodland Ways, Survival School and Woodland Survival Skills
You can combine survival skills with Forest Four Wheel Drive on the new Voyager Course to learn the basics of expedition survival and driving.
Fishing is becoming an ever-more popular pastime in The National Forest with ever-more fishing lakes set within the growing woodland.
Both beginners and experienced anglers can hone their fly-fishing skills at Foremark Fishing Lodge, with expert tuition, day permits and top fly patterns all part of the package.
Make time to stop for a bite to eat at Shortheath Water and Beehive Farm Fishing Lakes, which have excellent tearooms on site!
It doesn't have to be all-go on your break in The National Forest. Treat yourself to a bit of 'me-time' at one of our three luxurious health spas. You can be pampered and feel the stresses of daily life simply ebb away. Bliss!
With quiet country lanes linking to sites where horse-riding is permitted, the rolling landscape of The National Forest is perfect to explore on horseback. Click through to the sites highlighted on the map to find out about facilities and permit requirements.
Not only can you drive a car around the famous Donington Park racing circuit but you can also learn how to negotiate the trickiest of obstacles with expert instruction from Forest Four Wheel Drive. Or if Landrovers are just too small for you - try driving a tank with Tank Mania!
Why not try your hand at something new? There is a whole host of activities to try including BTCV Conservation holidays, special interest breaks, archery, llama treks or why not ski in the middle of summer at Swadlincote Ski & Snowboard Centre. Find out where the local leisure centres are, including Hood Park in Ashby de la Zouch with its wonderful outdoor pool.
There are several pretty reservoirs across the area, which have playgrounds, open spaces for picnics and lovely woodland walks. Foremark and Staunton Harold reservoirs, also offer sailing and windsurfing. Fishing is also an ever-more popular pastime in the National Forest.
There is truly so much to do in the area
with interactive visitor centres and brilliant family attractions.
Journey through the past in our historic houses with their gorgeous gardens. Absorb the atmosphere in haunted
castles, ancient priories and impressive churches or discover the workings of a bygone age through the area's rich industrial heritage.
Or savour drift-away-days on a canal boating break, explore the wonderful woodlands and spot the wealth of wildlife here.
There are more than 400 new and mature woodlands open to the public. Many have been created as part of the growing National Forest and further planting continues.
The trees, ponds and wildflower meadows within these woodlands provide a wide range of habitats making The National Forest a great place to spot wildlife.
Download a copy of the Where to see wildlife in The National Forest leaflet.
Find out when and where to see wildlife in The National Forest as well as more information on habitats that are being created by visiting The National Forest - Nature Conservation.
If you are searching for a special gift, looking for a souvenir from your visit or on the hunt for bargains, there is plenty of choice in the National Forest.
Make sure you take time to stop off in the pretty market town of Ashby de la Zouch and explore the galleries and antique shops in Tutbury and Melbourne.
Take home honey or wonderful pottery handmade by the monks at Mount St Bernard Abbey.
Take time to explore our waterways, wetlands and woodland lakes.
Both children and their older companions alike will love the interactive discovery centres and brilliant activities in the National Forest. Packed with places to take the whole family – whatever the weather!
This area is steeped in history with ancient ruins, grand houses and sites that reveal the ingenuity of our industrial past.
With so much to explore and do in The National Forest you'll need more than just one day. So why not make a weekend of it and enjoy a forest holiday from just £99.
Read more: Short Breaks
The National Forest is one of Britain's boldest environmental projects, creating a Forest for the nation across 200 square miles of Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire.
Read more: Forest in the making
The wide range of habitats being created and protected across The National Forest make it a great place to spot wildlife.
Download: Where to see wildlife
Can you identify animal tracks or plants and trees vital for survival in woodland? Get to the heart of the woodland by learning bushcraft skills and ancient woodland crafts.
Read more: Forest Experiences.
With beautiful woodlands, country parks and pretty villages linked by quiet country lanes, the varied landscape of The National Forest, is perfect for cycling.
Read more: Cycling
Many lakes are now framed with growing woodland, attracting wildlife and creating a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing fishing trip.
Read more: Fishing
The 5.7km Heritage Trail runs along the former Ashby and Nuneaton Joint Railway Line from the old station at Measham to Spring Cottage to join the B5004 and the Conkers Circuit.
Read more: Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail.
For those wanting a gentle cycle ride, a family walk, a wildlife ramble or a daily jog, the four and a half mile Conkers Circuit is ideal for all ages with easy to follow circuit markers and shorter loops within it.
Read more: Conkers Circuit
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps 245 (The National Forest), 246 (Loughborough) and 233 (Leicester) cover the whole National Forest & Beyond area. Order your copy.
Order: Gift Shop
Swadlincote,
Derbyshire
The small farm contains a variety of animals, some of which can be met in our petting area. There is also a play area for under 10s, a pet shop and tea room on site.
Read more: Beehive Woodland Lakes
A large area of the River Trent floodplain close to Burton on Trent town centre. Attractions include Stapenhill Gardens, the Viking ship play area, a sculpture trail and nature walks. Wildlife can be found throughout the site, especially in the Burton Mail Woodland and on wildfowl scrapes. Angling, canoeing and rowing take place on the river through membership of local clubs.
Read more: Trent Washlands
The National Forest is one of Britain's boldest environmental projects, creating a Forest for the nation across 200 square miles of Leicestershire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire.
Read more: Forest in the making
Combine a weekend break learning woodland crafts on a forest holiday from just £99. Check out the latest deals...
Read more: Short Breaks
Interest in edible wild plants has mushroomed over recent years. Why not join one of our excellent survival schools on a wild food or bushcraft course?
Read more: Woodland Survival Crafts
Read more: The Survival School
Read more: Woodland Ways
Packed with ideas on what to see in the National Forest, brilliant attractions and fantastic events.
Download: Visitor Guide
Hoar Cross,
Staffordshire
Health Spa resort in a stately home offering all of the amenities of a 4 star hotel and the very best in health spa equipment and treatment.
Read more: Hoar Cross Hall Health Spa
Kegworth,
Derbyshire
A family-owned hotel part of the Best Western group with award-winning restaurant and Reeds stunning health club and spa.
Read more: Best Western Premier Yew Lodge Hotel & Reeds Health Club
Ashby de la Zouch,
Leicestershire
Champneys Springs is one of the most advanced health resorts in the country surrounded by wide-open parklands. A great venue for pampering, group get-togethers and informal conference facilities.
Read more: Champneys Springs Health Resort
Ibstock,
Leicestershire
A wonderful transformation from opencast to wildlife haven. 150 acres of woodland, lakes and meadow makes for great wildlife watching from the hide. Surfaced trails provide access for all abilities.
Read more: Sence Valley Forest Park
Walton on Trent,
Derbyshire
Catton Hall, built in 1745 by Smith of Warwick, has a fascinating history and collection of pictures, furniture and memorabilia. Private chapel. Gardens run down to the River Trent. Camping, fishing, cycle and horse riding trails all available for groups only by prior arrangement.
Read more: Catton Hall
The 5.7km Heritage Trail runs along the former Ashby and Nuneaton Joint Railway Line from the old station at Measham to Spring Cottage to join the B5004 and the Conkers Circuit.
Read more: Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail.
Castle Donington,
Derbyshire
The World's largest collection of Grand Prix racing cars, with a display of over 130 cars within 5 halls, depicting motor sport history from the early 1900s to the present day.
Read more: Donington Grand Prix Collection
Swadlincote,
Derbyshire
Experience Tank driving! Fancy driving military vehicles – ploughing through the mud, powering up hills. These are some of the thrills and spills we offer at TANK MANIA.
Read more: Tank Mania
Swadlincote,
Derbyshire
Fun at 5mph. Off road instruction either in our Landrover or your own vehicle. Learn how to tackle humps, hollows, side-slopes, water, mud and ruts.
Read more: Forst 4WD
Make a difference to the environment on a conservation holiday. It is a great way to get outdoors, learn new skills and meet new friends.
Read more: BTCV Conservation Holidays
Enjoy the beautiful countryside accompanied by our friendly llamas, who carry a tailor made 3 course picnic. We offer from 1 hour to full day sessions. You feel calmer when you walk with a llama.
Read more: National Forest Llama Treks
Swadlincote,
Derbyshire
Come and experience the thrill of winter sports whatever the time of year. Ski or snowboard on perma-snow, the revolutionary ski surface, or whizz down in a toboggan or sno-tube.
Read more: Swadlincote Ski & Snowboard Centre
Interest in edible wild plants has mushroomed over recent years. Why not join one of our excellent survival schools on a wild food or bushcraft course?
Read more: Woodland Survival Crafts
Read more: The Survival School
Read more: Woodland Ways
For those wanting a gentle cycle ride, a family walk, a wildlife ramble or a daily jog, the four and a half mile Conkers Circuit is ideal for all ages with easy to follow circuit markers and shorter loops within it.
Read more: Conkers Circuit
Book your break during the Walking Festival. Check out the latest short break deals from just £99.
Read more: Short Breaks
Many lakes are now framed with growing woodland, attracting wildlife and creating a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing fishing trip.
Read more: Fishing
Framed by woodland, this pretty reservoir offers excellent fishing, sailing and birdwatching and is on the route of two National Forest Walks: the Reservoirs Walk medium walk and the Oaks & Oaklands long walk.
Read more: Foremark Reservoir
You can enjoy bird watching, dinghy and sailboarding with the Staunton Harold Sailing Club. Coarse fishing is also available by contacting Burton Mutual Fishing Club. Walks link to Calke Abbey and Foremark Reservoir.
Read more: Staunton Harold Reservoir
Packed with ideas on what to see in the National Forest, brilliant attractions and fantastic events.
Download: Visitor Guide
Newtown Linford,
Leicestershire
Leicestershire's most visited country park. 830 acres of grass, bracken, rocky outcrops, majestic trees, deer herd, river and folly 'Old John Tower'. Shop, visitor centre, tea room. Bradgate House Ruins - birthplace of Lady Jane Grey. Swithland Wood - 146 acres of Ancient Woodland.
Read more: Bradgate Park & Swithland Woods
With so much to explore and do in The National Forest you'll need more than just one day. So why not make a weekend of it and enjoy a forest holiday from just £99.
Read more: Short Breaks
Embark on a relaxing canal boat holiday with Aqua Narrowboat Hire. Or for a shorter trip hop on at Moira Furnace to cruise along the recently restored Ashby Canal to Conkers.
Read more: Shakespeare Classic Line
Read more: Aqua Narrowboat Hire
Read more: Moira Furnace
Many lakes are now framed with growing woodland, attracting wildlife and creating a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing fishing trip.
Read more: Fishing
A large area of the River Trent floodplain close to Burton on Trent town centre. Attractions include Stapenhill Gardens, the Viking ship play area, a sculpture trail and nature walks. Wildlife can be found throughout the site, especially in the Burton Mail Woodland and on wildfowl scrapes. Angling, canoeing and rowing take place on the river through membership of local clubs.
Read more: Trent Washlands
Moira,
Leicestershire
Conkers, a unique mix of indoor and outdoor experiences. Enter a world of adventure - explore 4 discovery zones with interactive exhibits, ride on the Conkerchoo train and go wild in the adventure play areas.
Read more: Conkers
Rosliston,
Derbyshire
Woodland walks, indoor and outdoor play, cycle hire, fishing and restaurant, as well as education programmes, birds of prey, archery, woodland laser and laser clay shooting.
Read more: Rosliston Forestry Centre
Coalville,
Leicestershire
Snibston offers an exciting interactive day out for all ages. Explore the history of Snibston Colliery with an ex miner and learn about new ways to make electricity.
Read more: Snibston Discovery Park
Ashby de la Zouch,
Leicestershire
Tour the impressive ruins of this grand medieval manor house set in extensive grounds. Explore the secret kitchen tunnel used during the siege, climb the 24 metre high Hastings Tower and enjoy superb views over the surrounding countryside.
Read more: Ashby de la Zouch Castle
Burton upon Trent,
Staffordshire
Claymills has four large beam engines (two working), five Lancashire boilers, steam powered engineering workshops with blacksmith's forge and steam hammer, early steam powered dynamo house and twenty other stationary steam engines. All engines are original to the pumping station.
Read more: Claymills Victorian Pumping Station
Coalville,
Leicestershire
Set in beautiful surroundings, this Cistercian Abbey was founded in 1835 as a continuation of Garendon Abbey (1133-1538). Includes gardens, high calvery, shop and Abbey Church.
Read more: Mount St Bernard Abbey
Find out where to buy local produce in and around The National Forest.
Download: Food Guide
Make sure you leave time for tea. Savour the delectable home-baked cakes in our award-winning tea rooms.
Read more: Places to eat
Packed with ideas on what to see in the National Forest, brilliant attractions and fantastic events.
Download: Visitor Guide
Interest in edible wild plants has mushroomed over recent years. Why not join one of our excellent survival schools on a wild food or bushcraft course?
Read more: Woodland Survival Crafts
Read more: The Survival School
Read more: Woodland Ways
Can you identify animal tracks or plants and trees vital for survival in woodland? Get to the heart of the woodland by learning bushcraft skills and ancient woodland crafts.
Read more: Forest Experiences.
Come and enjoy this ever-changing landscape with a forest holiday from just £99. Check out the latest deals...
Read more: Short Breaks
The National Forest Company,
Enterprise Glade, Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA.
Email:
Telephone: +44 (0)1283 551211
Fax: +44 (0)1283 552844
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Photography credits – Chris Beech, Gordon Hudson, YHA, SLB Photography and Hoar Cross Hall
