Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest is located between the lakes of Coniston Water and Windermere, just over 2 miles south west of Hawkshead. Historically, most of the landscape between these two lakes was forested. However, by the 18th century the heavy charcoal-making, coppicing and iron-smelting of local industry had left the land virtually bare. The current forest is the result of 20th century regeneration by the Forestry Commission, who restored oak, larch, spruce and pine woodland. In the 1960s the forest was opened to the public, and today it remains the largest forest in the Lake District. The Visitor Centre has car parking, a tea room, toilets, and mountain bike hire, and is a good starting point for a walk into the forest. There are many marked hiking or biking trails, nature trails, and picnic spots where you can relax with a packed lunch.

Grizedale Forest is dotted with wonderful sculptures - since 1977 artists have been invited to create sculptures, inspired by their surroundings, using natural materials. The forest is also a haven for wildlife, home to red and roe deer, badgers, squirrels,grouse and woodpeckers.

Grizedale Forest has a theatre which regularly presents dance, classical, jazz, drama, and folk concerts.