The nation's forests are for all to enjoy
This page offers information to help you plan a stress-free visit to Hamsterley Forest.
Essentials
Toilets
There are two accessible toilets at Hamsterley Forest. One is located in the main car park and the other in the cafe. The doors are 700mm wide and are not power assisted. Keys are not needed to access these toilets.
There are eight additional toilets on site.
Changing Places
There are no Changing Places facilities at Hamsterley Forest.
Needing help
Staff are available during the weekends at the Information Point. They are first-aid trained and some have received disability awareness training.
Arriving at the forest
Hamsterley Forest has five car parks. Bedburn car park is the main one, closest to the visitor centre.
This forest is not accessible by public transport.
Car parking
The two accessible parking bays are located in the main car park, next to the toilets.
Parking is not free. Payment must be made via cash or card at the machines in the car park. You can also pay on your mobile phone with RingGo.
Visitor centre and cafe
Hamsterley Forest has an Information Point with leaflets, activity packs and maps. There is a staff presence at weekends. The Information Point is approximately 50m from the car park, up a gradient and then via a decked ramp. The manual doors are 700mm wide and open outwards. There is no hearing loop and seating is not available.
There is a cafe at Hamsterley Forest, operated by a third party. There is no specifically accessible seating.
Getting out into the forest
All-terrain mobility scooters are not available to hire at Hamsterley Forest.
The Viking play trail is our easy-access trail and is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Seating and shelter
Benches and seating are available across Hamsterley Forest. Accessible seating is located along the Viking play trail.
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.