Here at Forestry England we manage over 1,500 forests and woodlands. Did you know that it's likely you live within an hour of your closest one? The nation's forests are on your doorstep and offer the space to explore, walk the dog, connect with nature and exercise both your mind and your body.
If one of your goals for the new year is to improve your health and overall wellbeing, we've got 10 excellent reasons why spending time in the forest is the only resolution you really need to achieve this.
1. Get active and keep moving
With over 1,800 miles of trails to explore, our forests are the perfect places to spend quality time outside alone, with friends, or with the whole family - and your canine companion too.
We have a range of waymarked walking, cycling and running trails to suit all abilities, so grab your walking boots, running shoes, or your bike and find a trail that suits you.
2. Spend time with family
It doesn’t matter what your age is: forests really are for everyone. They’re perfect places to visit alone or in small groups, but if you’re bringing younger family members there's also loads in store to keep them amused.
From free downloadable activities to interactive trails, play areas and familiar character sculptures to spot, there's no better way to tire out the little ones than with a wild day out in the woods!
3. Improve your mental and physical health
Spending time out in the forest really does improve our health. Research published by WWF in October 2024 shows that one in six adults have experience of a mental health condition, and that 70% feel happier after spending time in nature.
Forest bathing, which originated in Japan (where it is called shinrin yoku) is the practice of finding a sense of calm amongst the trees. This has been shown to help us de-stress and boost our health and wellbeing.
Can't get to the forest? Have a go at home with our virtual forest bathing experience.
4. Discover new hobbies and experiences
From adrenaline sports to mindful walks, the nation's forests offer a range of activities to experience. Visit a forest to spend time on a hobby you already love or even to try something new - maybe climb the high ropes with Go Ape or give disc golf a shot?
You can find out what activities and events are available near you by searching for local forests using your postcode.
5. Explore somewhere new
We get it, with steep climbs and winding, uneven paths, you might not think that forests are for you.
However, many of the nation's forests have easy access trails, toilet facilities and plenty of seating. Some offer all-terrain mobility scooter hire, so everyone can get about and explore all of the wonderful things on offer.
Sign up for monthly email newsletters packed with wildlife updates, forest stories and ideas for days out near you!
6. Connect with wildlife
Our forests are home to a range of wildlife, from large mammals such as deer to smaller inhabitants including bats, dormice, birds of prey and red squirrels.
We're one of the largest managers of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in England, which are home to the country’s rarest wildlife. The land we manage provides habitats for wildlife in moors, heathlands and bogs as well as amongst the trees.
So grab your binoculars, find your nearest forest, and see the rich variety of wildlife living in our special woods for yourself.
7. Learn something new
Wildlife isn't the only thing you can spot in the forest. The nation’s forests are also rich with history, and many are home to historic monuments and fascinating archaeology. Part of our job involves caring for these hidden features, and safeguarding them for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
Learn how to recognise burial mounds, hillforts and more in our historic features blog and see what you can discover on your next forest visit.
8. Make new friends
Our online communities within Strava continue to grow, with users sharing and tracking their time spent on forest trails and encouraging others to do the same.
If something a little less competitive but equally as centred on community is more up your street, soft hiking is growing in popularity and is definitely worth taking a look at.
9. Make time for rest and relaxation
When you’ve finished exploring for the day, many of our forests have fantastic cafes where you can refuel and recharge. Forest cafes are wonderful spots for lunch and a catch up, or a cuppa with a big slab of cake. Many also offer discounts for Forestry England members.
And if you'd prefer to pack a flask and a box of sandwiches, you're never too far from a picnic bench or the dappled shade of a tree.
10. Support a good cause
For over 100 years we've been growing, shaping and caring for forests for the benefit and enjoyment of all, and your visits help us to continue our work planning and planting forests that will help create a sustainable future.
Become a member today and enjoy free parking at hundreds of sites.
So what are you waiting for?
If you haven’t already, the new year is the perfect time to discover what forests can do for you. See you on the trails!
