New accessible green route opens in the Heart of the Forest

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We are excited to launch the National Forest Green Network, a developing system of surfaced, accessible paths that link woodlands, green spaces and key visitor attractions across the Heart of the Forest.

The Heart of the Forest is a 10‑square‑mile area at the centre of the National Forest that has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in the region. Once a heavily industrial landscape with very little tree cover, it has been reshaped over the past 30 years into a place where woodland now covers around 40 per cent of the area.

This first phase lays the foundations for our wider ambition to create a connected, fully accessible trail network across the whole National Forest, enabling walkers, wheelers and cyclists to move freely from destination to destination.

The new route links Conkers Discovery Centre, Donisthorpe Woodland Park, Moira Furnace and Albert Village Lake, while also better connecting the communities of Donisthorpe, Moira and Gresley to these destinations. Improved trails, clearer wayfinding and enhanced access points make it easier than ever for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the area on foot, wheels or horseback.

These new accessible paths show how communities, visitor hubs and landscapes can be connected through welcoming, inclusive routes — and how the National Forest can continue to shape a greener, healthier future for the region.

Work began in winter 2025 and was completed last month. This is an important step in our long‑term commitment to make it easier for people to choose walking, cycling and more sustainable travel for everyday journeys. By linking key destinations and community spaces through attractive off‑road routes, we hope more people will feel encouraged to leave the car behind, explore locally, support local businesses and spend more time enjoying the Forest. It also opens up access to green space for more people, helping them experience the wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature.

This new route sits within a wider transformation across the Forest, where more than 10 million trees have been planted over the past 30 years, alongside over 320 kilometres of promoted walking trails, including the 75‑mile National Forest Way.

As the National Forest Green Network grows, it will strengthen the Heart of the Forest as a visitor destination while making it easier for local people to enjoy the landscape as part of everyday life. Future phases will continue to build connections across the Forest, supporting sustainable travel, local tourism and green enterprise for decades to come.

Come and experience the new route in the Heart of the Forest for yourself. And if you value what we are creating, please consider making a donation to support our work and help us grow this landscape for the future.