COVID-19 Statement:
We are delighted we can start welcoming you back to the National Forest. People have been enjoying walking and cycling through our woodlands and open spaces throughout the constraints of lockdown. We are now looking forward to the reopening of all of our great outdoor attractions and tourism and hospitality businesses. Please check relevant websites before you set out, as many places are open for pre-booked visits only, and many have limited facilities. Please also continue to observe social distancing advice and to take care of the Forest by following the Countryside Code at all times.
For information regarding our events, please visit the individual events pages on our website or check our social media platforms. For the latest information in regards to COVID-19 please see Gov.uk and the NHS guide.
The National Forest is a story of regeneration.
25 years ago, large swathes of the Midlands landscape had been left scarred by centuries of coal mining and other heavy industry. But a passionate group of people had a vision: a forest. The first forest to be created at scale in England for over 1000 years, it transformed and literally turned the landscape from black to green. But the story doesn't stop here. This is Our National Forest. It belongs to us all. The benefits must be felt by you and everyone to be truly sustainable.
Where we are
Here is a map of the United Kingdom indicating on it, the location of The National Forest, just north west of Birmingham.
Where we are
The National Forest is right in the heart of the country, embracing 200 square miles of the Midlands. It spans across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire and aims to link the two ancient Forests of Charnwood and Needwood. With a history of coalmining and heavy industry, the landscape is now that of rolling farmland, ancient forests and new planted woodlands. Its main towns and villages include Burton upon Trent (famous for its brewing), Coalville and Swadlincote (formerly associated with the clay and coal mining industries) and the historic town of Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
Give to the Forest
Give monthly or one-off donation?