Grizedale Forest
With breath-taking views, stunning artwork and endless forest trails, come and discover all that Grizedale has to offer in the heart of the Lake District World Heritage Site!
The Perfect Location
Enjoy 10 different walking trails by foot or bike (don’t worry there’s bike hire available) or experience the forest by Segway for an even more exciting experience. For those who are even more adventurous, experience the beauty of the Lake District by swinging among the trees on one of the Go Ape courses.
If you’re a nature enthusiast who loves getting lost in forests, a weekend break exploring Grizedale Forest is the perfect getaway for you. Whether you’re seeking peaceful walks near Windermere or embarking on thrilling adventures like Windermere kayak trips, Grizedale Forest offers a wide range of activities for everyone.
With plenty of things to do in Bowness on Windermere, make sure Grizedale Forest makes it on to your list.
Opening Hours
The forest is open 7 days a week, dawn till dusk while the Visitor Information Centre is open 10 am – 3.30 pm.
The Grizedale Café is open 10 am – 4 pm for takeaway only at this time.
Camping or overnight stays in the forest or any of the car parks in Grizedale Forest are not allowed.
OPENING TIMES
Visitor Information Centre
MON – SUN
10.00 – 15.30
The Grizedale Café
MON – SUN
10.00 – 16.00
Pricing
Plan Your Adventure
Grizedale Forest itself is free to enter but the parking around the forest may require you to pay. Please note that if you stay longer than 20 minutes then charges apply from when you first arrive and the charges apply at all times.
Visitor Centre and Kennel’s car parks (Pay on exit system)
Up to 20 Minutes
£0.00
Each Additional 20 Minutes
£0.50
Moor Top & Bogle Car Parks
£0.00
Up to 1 Hour
£2.20
All-day
£8.00
Travel Information
Forestry Commission Visitor Centre, Grizedale Forest, Hawkshead, LA22 0QJ
OS Grid Ref SD331944
OS Grid Ref SD331944
There are various travel routes to Grizedale Forest but some are more accessible to certain types of vehicles than others. Coaches should approach from the south.
The Visitor Centre and Kennel’s car parks take cards or coins, however, the machines are unable to give change. To avoid touching the machines and to help with social distancing, you can pay online up to 48hrs after your visit on the Park with Ease website. Please bring a hand sanitiser with you to use if you do touch the machines.
The Moor Top and Bogle car park machines are currently covered and there are no charges to park here.
From the North (Unsuitable for Coaches)
Follow the A591 to Ambleside, leave Ambleside A593 to Langdale Coniston. Take first left B5286 to Hawkshead. Bypass Hawkshead following B5286 south then take the first right at the sign for ‘Grizedale’. Follow the road for approximately 2 miles.
From the South (Unsuitable for Coaches, See Below)
Exit M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 towards Barrow. Follow A590 past Newby Bridge to Haverthwaite Crossroads. Turn right, following the tourist sign to ‘Grizedale Forest Park’, follow signs for Satterthwaite/Grizedale North.
Coaches to Approach From the South:
Exit M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 towards Barrow. Follow A590 past Newby Bridge to Haverthwaite Crossroads. Ignore the tourist sign for ‘Grizedale Forest Park’ and turn right onto the A595 at Greenodd for approximately 1/2 mile. At Penny Bridge turn right for Colton/Oxen Park. Follow this road for approx. 8 miles to Grizedale Forest.
Contact Information
Contact details for Grizedale Forest are as follows:
FAQs
Anymore Questions?
Is There Parking At Grizedale Forest?
Parking is available around Grizedale Forest at the following locations: Visitor Centre, Kennels, Moor Top and Bogle car parks. Please see above for pricing information.
Are Toilets Available At Grizedale Forest?
Toilets are available and open for public use.
Can I Take My Dog To Grizedale Forest?
Yes, dogs are allowed making Grizedale Forest a perfect place to have a holiday with mans best friend! With our pet-friendly rooms, you never have to worry about leaving your companion behind again.
Is Grizedale Forest Wheelchair Accessible?
The main entrance has level access that also leads to the Exhibition Space, Visitor Information Point, Courtyard Toilets and the Grizedale Cafe. Disability toilets are available for visitors.
The Ridding Wood Trail is also wheelchair accessible, featuring seating, hard surfaces and musical key sculptures that play when turned so providing a sensory experience for visitors.
Is Grizedale Forest Pushchair Accessible?
Grizedale Forest is pushchair accessible, especially The Ridding Wood Trail which is ideal for pushchairs and providing a sensory experience for visitors with its musical key sculptures.
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The Perfect Retreat After Exploring Grizedale Forest
Why not complete your perfect adventure by retreating to the comfort and luxury of Craig Manor Hotel?
Check Availability
Other Attractions in Bowness-on-Windermere
Looking for other attractions to make your holiday to the Lake District one to remember? Check out some of our other favourite attractions in Bowness-on-Windermere including Go Ape Grizedale!
Plan your perfect weekend in the Lake District or a relaxing weekend break in Bowness and discover the charm of Bowness Windermere and the wider Lake District area. With Criag Manor’s dog-friendly accommodation and the comfort of a country house hotel in the Lake District, your stay will be truly memorable.
Still can’t decide? We have a full list of things to do in Bowness on Windermere for you to discover, no matter what you enjoy doing!
School Knott
Distance: 5 miles – Recommended Time: 2+ hours
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