The best summer holiday activities in the nation’s forests

The best summer holiday activities in the nation’s forests

Published: 3 July 2024

With the summer holidays nearly upon us, it's time to plan activities to keep the kids entertained for the next six weeks. Forestry England offers lots of fun, low-cost and engaging activities for families to enjoy in the nation’s beautiful forests.

From picnics in sun-dappled clearings to adventures along the Gruffalo trails, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, many of these activities are budget-friendly or even free, ensuring all families can join in the fun.

Here’s a sneak peek at the exciting activities awaiting families this summer holiday:

Meet the Gruffalo

Forestry England is celebrating 25 years of Julia Donaldson's beloved children's book, The Gruffalo, by inviting the character himself to meet his adoring fans at selected forest locations. Don’t miss your chance to meet the Gruffalo at one of Forestry England’s Gruffalo themed fun days this summer. 

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Gruffalo summer activity

Enjoy some Olympic-sized excitement in the nation’s forests this summer and embark on a quest to find hidden Gruffalo character signs and enjoy Olympic-inspired challenges on this fun family trail. 

For even more fun, download the free Gruffalo Picnic Party Park. This is jam-packed with everything you need to host your own Gruffalo 25th birthday party picnic, from party invites to food ideas and party games! 

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Gruffalo’s 25th birthday trail

Celebrate the beloved Gruffalo's 25th birthday with a big party trail in the forest! Families can work together to find missing party items while enjoying fun games along the trail and learning how plants and animals care for each other. This trail is a delightful and educational experience for Gruffalo fans of all ages.

Cost: £4 per Gruffalo trail pack plus parking charges. Free parking for members.

Go on a family bike ride

Set off on a family cycling adventure across over 2,500km of scenic trails, including routes designed for beginners in the nation's forests. Discover dedicated cycling trails and skill-building areas, perfect for introducing your children to the joys of cycling. So, grab your helmet and set off for a beautiful cycle ride! 

Cost: Free, bike hire charges and parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Camp under the stars

Gather your family, snuggle up in your sleeping bag, and enjoy the night sky at one of Forestry England’s campsites. In 14 wonderful forests across England, these campsites provide the perfect spot for a holiday in nature. Explore miles of paths and unique experiences right outside your tent.

Cost: From £13.60 per night (based on 2 adults and 2 children). Members receive a 10% discount.

Disc golf

Disc golf is a great way to spend time in the forest with your friends and family this summer. To play, you take aim and throw frisbee-style discs at fixed targets through the forest. Like golf, the player who completes the course with the fewest throws wins!

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Picnic in the great outdoors

Picnicking is a great way to explore the nation’s forests, and no matter where you are in the country, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy your food while taking in the spectacular landscape. From babbling brooks to quaint open heathland and lofty crags, you’re sure to find an alfresco dining spot unlike any other.

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Enjoy moments of reflection

Holidays can be stressful, so take a serene pause and reconnect with nature on Forestry England's wellbeing trails. Families can also try forest bathing with free, downloadable activity sheets from Forestry England.

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Forest play

Forests are an immersive, inspiring playground for children and adults alike! Unleash your inner child in adventure play zones and natural equipment areas. Get the whole family involved as you scramble, slide and swing around one of the nation’s forests this summer.

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Look for wildlife

Make your family walk more fun and engage your children with nature by going on a wildlife walk. From mini-beasts to roe deer, there’s plenty to spot in the nation’s forests. Download Forestry England’s spotters sheet and record what you find!

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.