The nation's forests are for all to enjoy
This page offers information to help you plan a stress-free visit to Gisburn Forest and Stocks.
Essentials
Toilets
There are two accessible toilets at Gisburn Forest: one in the toilet block and one inside the cafe. The doors are not power assisted and are 950mm wide. Keys are not needed for access.
There are additional toilets in the toilet block and cafe.
Changing Places
There are no Changing Places facilities at Gisburn Forest.
Needing help
Cafe staff (not Forestry England) are available Wednesday-Sunday during school term time and every day during the school holidays. They can provide an induction for using the all-terrain mobility scooters.
Arriving at the forest
There are four car parks at Gisburn Forest. Gisburn Forest Hub is the main car park, and also the only car park with accessible parking.
Car parking
There are five accessible parking bays in the main car park, located near the toilet block.
Parking is not free. An ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) parking system is in place and tickets must be bought from the machines in the car park. Payment via mobile app is not available.
Visitor cafe
There is no visitor centre at Gisburn Forest but there is a cafe, operated by a third party, where seating is available. There is sometimes background music in the cafe.
Getting out in the forest
All-terrain mobility scooter hire is available from the cafe at Gisburn Forest and must be booked in advance.
The Birch Hills walk is easy to access and has been adapted to be suitable for all-terrain mobility scooters.
Seating and shelter
Bench seating is available across the site. Accessible benches are located at the cafe and at the Stocks picnic area.
Trails and activities
Many of our walking and cycling trails are suitable for a range of abilities. Visit our Things to Do page for inspiration.