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Visit and Explore

Visit and Explore

With literally hundreds of things to see and do, you are genuinely spoilt for choice in The National Forest. Whether you are looking for family fun, roots to the past, woodland glades, water-based activities or some serious shopping – there is something for everyone!

But you won’t be able to fit it all in one day, so why not stay over in one of the Forest’s hotels, timber lodges or friendly B&Bs?

Contact us to order your copy of the visitor guides or alternatively you can download them from the links below.

Visit the Interactive Map to find out more information on things to do, woodlands to explore and other places to visit in The National Forest

Events

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.

If you are holding an event in The National Forest, you can add your event here.

Places to Visit

Places to Visit

With literally hundreds of things to see and do, you are genuinely spoilt for choice in The National Forest. Whether you are looking for family fun, roots to the past, woodland glades, water-based activities or some serious shopping – there is something for everyone!

For information on attractions, activities and accommodation that cater for groups or school visits, request your Groups Visits Guide / Educational Visits Guide Contact Us. Alternatively you can download these guides below.

Things to Do

Thnigs to do

With more than 700 miles of paths to explore across gently undulating countryside, The National Forest is perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding. And through the creation of new habitats, it is an ideal location for bird and wildlife spotting.

Find our more about things to do in The National Forest – walking and access for all, horse-riding and cycling...

National Forest Food Guide

Places to Eat

You’ll love our quality local food and drink. Whether you are looking for a traditional tea shop, elegant restaurant or fantastic pub, there is a huge choice. And being a rural destination, much of the produce is grown locally.

Why not visit one of the many regular farmers markets and excellent farm shops in the area. These often stock many more unusual varieties of produce than you would find in your local supermarket.

Make a weekend of it! Indulge in our local specialities. Download our the National Forest & Beyond Visitor Guide here or contact the Tourist Information Centres who can help you find where to stay and sample our local produce.

Hotels and Guest Accommodation

Accomodation

Whether you are looking for a cosy family run guest house or farmhouse, a campsite in a peaceful woodland setting, a friendly village pub or a large luxurious hotel, The National Forest offers a wealth of choice in accommodation.

View 2006 National Forest & Beyond Visitor Guide or Contact Us for your copy

National Forest Walks Pack

Villages and Towns

The National Forest is the perfect destination for a brisk and bracing country walk. Find peace and fresh air on a walk through Charnwood Forest, Calke Park and Needwood Forest.

The National Forest Company has produced a pack of circular walks ranging from 3 to 22 miles. Within this pack, five are specifically designated 'Access for All' suitable for wheelchair and pram access and for people who have difficulty walking.

Gift Shop
Creating The National Forest is a huge task but it's being made all the easier by your kind support. These gift ideas are just a few ways in which you can help...

Forest Creation and Climate Change
The National Forest Company’s position on climate change and tree planting

The Growing Forest
View Headline Facts and Figures showing the continued growth of The National Forest...

Partners
View our extensive list of partners including Government Departments and Agencies, Local Authorities, Voluntary Sector, Private Sector & Tourism.

FAQ
View frequently asked questions about The National Forest, The National Forest Company and more...

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