International Forest Day: the Best Forest Walks in the UK

At Luxury Lodges, we’re lucky to be nestled within some of the most beautiful locations across the UK, including the Lake District, Cornwall and southern Wales. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best forest walks in the UK, all of which are within easy access of our resorts. 

Rydal Forest, Rydal Village

The Lake District: 20.5 miles from Whitbarrow

Popular among avid hikers, Rydal Forest in The Lake District is the perfect place to stretch your legs. In a six mile walk that begins and ends at Rydal, take a circular tour of Grasmere and Rydal Water, whilst passing some iconic Wordsworth hotspots along the way. Lovers of literature will appreciate the chance to see Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth family graves, whilst any foodies among your group may want to stop by the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop for a taste of Sarah Nelson’s top secret recipe. 

The best time of year to visit Rydal Forest is undoubtedly Autumn – don’t forget to look up at the canopy of yellow, red and orange hues above you. This is generally a quieter season too, if you wish to avoid the crowds. 

Burtness Wood, Buttermere 

The Lake District: 20.8 miles from Whitbarrow

Buttermere is famous for its spectacular scenery, with the village taking its name from the adjacent lake. The best way to enjoy the view is on foot, as Buttermere is one of the few lakes in the Lake District with a footpath around its perimeter. Set off just outside of Buttermere Village, follow the path to the foot of the lake to walk the Buttermere circuit where you’ll be surrounded by dramatic fells, shimmering waters and towering trees. We recommend doing this one on a sunny day if possible, as the light shining through the gaps in the trees makes for a truly breath-taking scene. 

This is a low-level walk so you don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy it, but bear in mind that the footpath can sometimes be rocky. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and take some time out for a peaceful lakeside picnic – you won’t regret it. 

Clowance Estate, Cornwall 

Clowance Resort, Camborne 

We couldn’t create a list of best forest walks in the UK without mentioning what we consider to be one of the best locations for woodland walks in Cornwall – our very own Clowance Estate. Ideally situated to see the best woodland Cornwall has to offer, Clowance is located between Falmouth and St Ives and set within 97 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland and woodlands. There’s even an 18th Century manor house which makes for great photos if you’re a keen photographer. Step outside of your lodge and enjoy a picturesque and peaceful woodland walk, right on your doorstep. 

Dizzard Wood, Cornwall

Dizzard, 11.2 miles from Burn Coastal Retreat

Steeped in history, Dizzard Wood in northern Cornwall is thought to be some of Britain’s oldest woodland, dating back to prehistoric times in parts. Begin at Millook Haven and head up the valley through the broadleaf woodland – you’ll reach the coast at Dizzard Point. The distinctive winding tree barks, wildflowers and butterflies make for an almost magical scene which could have been taken from the pages of a fantasy novel, making this a walk you won’t want to miss out on. 

This walk is considered moderate in difficulty, so it may not be the one to start with if you aren’t an experienced hiker, and the remote location means a car to travel there.

Credit: iWalk Cornwall

Abergorlech Forest, Wales

Near Carmarthen, 30.2 miles from Dylan Coastal Resort

Abergorlech Forest offers three different walking trails, so there’s something for every ability level. The easiest and most family-friendly trail is the Riverside Walk, which takes on average 30 minutes to complete. It’s named the Riverside Walk because it takes you alongside the beautiful River Gorlech, before climbing uphill through the gorgeous greenery of the woodlands. Trails in Abergorlech Forest are waymarked from start to finish, and there’s a picnic site for enjoying a spot of lunch beneath the trees – of which there are over 180 different species.

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