The Forests of Cumbria, culture and excitement

Most people associate Cumbria with the Lakes and daffodils, but there is even more for visitors to enjoy. Cumbria is home to two different areas of forest; the Grizedale Forest and the Whinlatter Forest.

Grizedale Forest

The Grizedale Forest covers over 6,000 acres with broad leaved trees and plantings and is the largest in the Lake District, and records show that it provided timber and firewood for Furness Abbey in the 11th century. 

The forest was opened to the public as recently as the 1960s. There's now a visitor centre, and various activities. A sculpture trail incorporated into the forest by local artists provides surprise and interest with over a hundred sculptures made of natural materials, including wood carvings and stone along the 10-mile Silurian Way circuit. Andy Goldsworthy, one of Britain's well-know sculptors has also contributed his work. Go Ape, the 'aerial adventure in the trees' people have opened a new activity centre here. If you've never tried one of these before (there are several established ones in France), they're both exciting and challenging. Take a look at the one in Thetford Forest, Norfolk for an idea of what it all entails. 

Whinlatter Forest Park

Whinlatter Forest Park rises high over the hills with views of Bassenthwaite Lake and Scotland. Not only are there almost a dozen way marked paths for walkers and mountain bikers to follow, including three high level routes and junior routes, but there's also the 'Osprey watch' where you may be fortunate enough to see ospreys rearing their young in the months from May to September. An established orienteering course provides the opportunity for yet another challenge. Children can be amused in the adventure playground. A tea room and picnic sites are available for tasty rewards after your day out.

So instead of just exercise and nature, our forests now incorporate culture, excitement and social activities with a day out in a forest. Go and enjoy.

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Self-catering holiday accommodation near forests in Cumbria:

Take a look at the self-catering cottages, houses, pine lodges and other holiday accommodation on offer for your trip to Cumbria and the Lake District by clicking on these link:

Holiday accommodation in Cumbria

or Cottages in the Lake District

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