Top 10 Woodland Walks in the UK: Scenic Forest Escapes for 2025
There’s nothing quite like a woodland walk. The crunch of twigs, the smell of moss after rain, and the dappled sunlight through tall trees. It all feels grounding. Luckily, the UK is full of forests and trails waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re after a lazy Sunday stroll, a family outing, or a longer hike, there’s a path that fits the mood. In this guide, we’ll share the top 10 woodland walks in the UK adventurers can enjoy in 2025, plus some simple tips to make your time outdoors even better.
Top 10 Woodland Walks Across the UK in 2025
The UK is home to some of the most enchanting forests in Europe, with trails that wind past ancient oaks, hidden streams, and wide open glades. Here are some of the best woodland walks in the UK has to offer:
1. New Forest, Hampshire — Blackwater Tall Trees Trail
This woodland walk trail is a gentle loop through some of the New Forest’s giants. Towering redwoods and Douglas firs line the track, with pockets of quiet glades where you can stop and take it all in. The trail is flat and easy underfoot, making it a good choice for families, pushchairs, or anyone who just wants a calm wander without much effort.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Walking time: Around 45–60 minutes
Accessibility: Wide gravel track, gentle slopes, benches along the way
Vibe: Big trees, peaceful pace, very family-friendly
2. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire — Major Oak Trail
You don’t need a long hike to feel the magic here. This short loop takes you from the visitor centre straight into ancient oak woodland, with the legendary Major Oak as its highlight. The path is firm and well-marked, so it’s an easy outing whether you’re with kids, older relatives, or just in the mood for a relaxed stroll.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Walking time: About 45 minutes
Accessibility: Level paths, clear signs, easy to follow
Vibe: Robin Hood legends, gnarled old oaks, short but memorable
3. Kielder Forest & Water, Northumberland — Lakeside Way
Kielder is huge, wild, and full of space. The full Lakeside Way circles the reservoir with long, breezy tracks, art installations, and glimpses of wildlife. If that feels a bit much, the Bull Crag loop is a shorter taste of the same mix. Whichever you choose, the water views and pinewoods give it a wide-open, refreshing feel.
Distance: Bull Crag loop ~6 miles; full loop 25.5 miles
Walking time: 2–3 hours (short loop) or a full day for the complete circuit
Accessibility: Mix of gravel and road; wide in places, fine for bikes too
Vibe: Big skies, lake views, art-meets-nature
4. Grizedale Forest, Lake District — Carron Crag
Grizedale blends woodland walking with outdoor art, but Carron Crag is its real gem. This waymarked route climbs steadily to the forest’s highest point, giving you views across the fells once you reach the top. The paths can be muddy after rain and the slope gets your legs working, but it’s short enough to feel rewarding without taking up your whole day.
Distance: About 3 miles
Walking time: 1.5–2 hours
Accessibility: Uneven in parts, short steep sections, some mud after rain
Vibe: Compact adventure, mix of sculptures and views
5. Epping Forest, London/Essex — Oak Trail
Looking for wood walks near me in London? A real escape just off the Tube, the Oak Trail loops through ancient woodland and open glades on the edge of London. It mixes forest tracks with a few road crossings and wide, open views. It’s a half-day walk that feels surprisingly wild given how close it is to the city, and it’s easy to get to if you’re travelling by public transport.
Distance: 6.6 miles
Walking time: 3–4 hours
Accessibility: Mixed terrain, some slopes, gates and crossings; start near Theydon Bois station
Vibe: Ancient oaks, countryside feel, easy city escape
6. Ashdown Forest, East Sussex — Pooh Country Walks
Ashdown is a mix of open heathland and shady patches of woodland. It’s best known as the setting for Winnie-the-Pooh, and you can follow simple mapped routes to the “Poohsticks Bridge” and other story spots. The paths are gentle, the views are wide, and it’s the kind of walk that works just as well for families as it does for anyone who wants a calm stretch of the legs.
Distance: 2–3 miles on marked loops (longer routes up to 14 miles)
Walking time: 45–90 minutes for shorter walks
Accessibility: Mostly easy-going tracks; start from the Forest Centre for clear maps
Vibe: Open skies, light woodland, and a playful nod to Pooh Bear
7. Thetford Forest (High Lodge)
If you’re looking for forest walks near me in Norfolk, this is a forest made for choice. High Lodge offers a set of waymarked trails from quick family strolls to half-day walks through tall pines. Benches appear at regular points, and some paths have shortcuts, so it’s easy to tailor the distance to how you’re feeling. With cafés and toilets nearby, it’s a simple, stress-free day out in the woods.
Distance: Routes range from 1 km to 12 km
Walking time: 20 minutes to about 3 hours
Accessibility: Inclusive 4.2 km circular with plenty of rest stops
Vibe: Tall pines, flexible routes, very family-friendly
8. Cannock Chase AONB, Staffordshire — Ladyhill & Fairoak
Cannock Chase is a mix of forest tracks, open spaces, and quiet pools. You can keep things short with the Ladyhill loop or wander a bit further on the Fairoak trail to take in the water and wildlife. It’s easy walking with a gentle feel, and the area is well-mapped so you won’t need to worry about finding your way back.
Distance: Around 2.5 miles for the easy loop; longer circuits available
Walking time: 1–2 hours depending on route
Accessibility: Mainly gravel paths with mild slopes
Vibe: Woodland calm, pretty pools, relaxed and flexible
9. Glenmore Forest & Loch Morlich, Cairngorms
This walk is a treat. A sandy-shored loch sits in the middle of a pine forest, with a clear path that circles right around it. The route is easy to follow and doesn’t demand much effort, but the views across the water to the mountains are stunning. On a sunny day, you can pause on the beach; in cooler months, the forest gives great shelter from the wind.
Distance: About 3.5 miles
Walking time: Around 2 hours (more if you linger at the loch)
Accessibility: Firm tracks; car parks and facilities close to the trail
Vibe: Caledonian pines, mountain views, laid-back lakeside loop
10. Coed y Brenin, Snowdonia — Waterfalls & Goldmines
Coed y Brenin has a set of marked trails, but the Waterfalls & Goldmines walk is a standout. It follows the river through tall trees and across sturdy bridges before reaching a dramatic waterfall. The route is short but full of variety, with easy navigation and great viewpoints along the way. It’s ideal if you want a memorable walk without giving up the whole day.
Distance: 2.2 miles
Walking time: About 1.5 hours
Accessibility: Clear forest paths; a few slopes and steps
Vibe: Waterfalls, woodland, and a sense of discovery in a compact loop
How to Prepare for Your Woodland Adventure
A good walk doesn’t need much planning, but a little preparation can make the day smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few things worth thinking about:
Plan Your Route Carefully
Before heading out, study maps of the area and familiarise yourself with the trails. Check weather forecasts to avoid being caught in rain or extreme conditions and plan your route according to your fitness level.
Think About Timing
Check how long your chosen route should take and add extra time for breaks, photographs, or slower sections. Starting earlier in the day gives you more flexibility and avoids the risk of running out of daylight. In winter, remember that dusk comes quickly in wooded valleys, so plan to finish while it’s still light.
Dress for the Conditions
Layers are your friend. A light base layer and a warm top you can add or remove will keep you comfortable in both shade and open ground. Waterproof jackets are worth carrying year-round, as woodland can hold onto damp air even on mild days.
Sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip are a must, since forest tracks can turn slippery after rainfall or in autumn leaf-fall.
Pack the Essentials
Bring a small rucksack rather than trying to carry items by hand. At a minimum, include enough water, a few snacks, and a fully charged phone. Signal can be patchy under tree cover, so pack a map or download the route in advance. A simple first aid kit with plasters and wipes is handy, and insect repellent in summer can save you from midges and mosquitoes.
Phones work hard on trails, running maps, taking photos, and searching for signal. And nothing cuts a day short like a flat battery. A reliable power bank takes the stress out of longer days in the woods.
For all-day walks or family outings, the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank (25,000mAh, 170W, 100W Built-In and Retractable Cables) is a neat fit. It balances high capacity with tidy cable management: one USB-C port, one USB-A port, plus two built-in USB-C cables, one a 67cm retractable lead and the other a 26cm lanyard, so you’re not fishing for cords on the trail.
It can charge up to four devices at once with 170W total output, or deliver a 100W single-port boost when your phone or camera needs a fast top-up. Back home, a 100W input gets it to 50% in about 26 minutes, and the TFT display shows live status at a glance.
The 25,000mAh capacity is sized to be air-travel-friendly and translates to roughly four to five full phone charges, which covers a weekend of photos, maps, and emergency calls without battery anxiety.
EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank (25,000mAh, 170W, 100W Built-In and Retractable Cables)
If you want something a little lighter that still handles multiple devices, the EcoFlow RAPID Pro Power Bank (20,000mAh, 230W, 100W Built-in Cable) offers four outputs and flexible sharing.
You get a built-in 100W USB-C retractable cable, plus three USB-C ports (one at 100W, two at 65W) for a 230W total, handy when you’re topping up a phone, headlamp, and GPS at the same time.
A clear LCD screen shows remaining power and status, and it supports rapid top-ups to 80% in about 47 minutes when paired with EcoFlow’s RAPID Pro Charging Station. It’s also air-travel-friendly (72Wh), so it slips into your carry-on for trips that start with a flight.
Safety and Navigation
Stick to waymarked trails where possible, especially if you’re new to the area. If you’re venturing off main paths, let someone know your route and expected return time. Carrying a whistle or small torch can be a reassurance on longer or quieter walks.
Respect the Environment
Woodlands are living ecosystems, home to birds, mammals, and rare plants. Keep dogs under control, especially during nesting season, and stay on marked paths to avoid damaging roots or disturbing habitats. Take any litter home, even biodegradable items, as they can disrupt wildlife.
Conclusion
Woodland walks in the UK offer something for everyone, from short family loops to full-day adventures through ancient forests. Each trail brings its own mix of scenery, history, and wildlife, making them perfect escapes from busy towns and cities. With a little preparation, you can enjoy these routes in comfort and safety, whether you’re chasing autumn colours, spring blossoms, or a quiet winter wander. So, lace up your boots, pack the essentials, and discover how refreshing it feels to step into the trees.
FAQs
Where to walk in Woodlands?
If you’re keen to stretch your legs among the trees, the UK is full of wonderful woodland walks. In England, you can wander through the towering pines of Thetford Forest in Norfolk, explore Sherwood Pines in Nottinghamshire (famous for its Robin Hood links), or enjoy sculpture-dotted trails in Grizedale Forest in the Lake District.
In Scotland, forests like Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and Loch Ard offer magical lochside trails, while Wales has gems such as Coed y Brenin, known for its waterfalls. And if you’re looking for something local, the Woodland Trust’s interactive map is brilliant for finding smaller woods right on your doorstep.
Can I walk in Private woodland?
The short answer: sometimes. In England and Wales, you can always follow public rights of way such as footpaths or bridleways, and you may also walk freely on land officially marked as “open access.” Most private woods, though, are off limits unless the owner allows it.
Scotland is more relaxed thanks to the Land Reform Act. You can walk through most woods if you do so responsibly, under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. In Northern Ireland, access is much stricter, so stick to marked trails or nature reserves. When in doubt, check maps or signs on site before stepping in.
Is Padley Gorge woodland walk one of the best woodland walks in the UK?
Many would say yes! Padley Gorge, tucked in the Peak District, is famous for its magical mix of ancient oak and birch trees, moss-covered rocks, and the rushing Burbage Brook. The National Trust looks after the area and has a well-loved circular trail that’s easy to follow.
Families love it because it’s short, scenic, and close to cafés and facilities. The paths can be uneven, and after rain they get slippery, so good shoes are a must. If you’re after a woodland stroll with real character, Padley Gorge definitely earns its reputation.
What is the most popular walk in the UK?
When it comes to favourites, Helvellyn in the Lake District usually takes the crown, especially the thrilling Striding Edge route. It’s a challenging day out with unforgettable views. Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) in North Wales is another top contender, with several routes leading to the summit and a café waiting at the top.
In Yorkshire, Malham Cove offers a dramatic limestone amphitheatre that was voted highly in national polls. Catbells, also in the Lake District, is a shorter climb with huge rewards and is loved by families. Other big names include Scafell Pike, the UK’s highest mountain in England, Ben Nevis in Scotland, and the South West Coast Path for those who prefer sea views to summits.