麻豆APP

Beautiful view of the nature. Photo by Chris Rhodes-

10 Most beautiful Forests in the UK

We all know that the United Kingdom walks a fine line when it comes to forests. They abound in literature, and the mysterious magic of a verdant vast area appears to be a common starting point for science fiction epics and iconic myths alike.

There is a reason why the United Kingdom remains at the top of the fairy tale food chain, and it can be found deep within the country’s forests.

These beautiful woodlands aren’t just the setting for magical legends; they’re also ideal for long walks and a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities, and the best of the best manage to maintain a distinct atmosphere all the while.

On misty walks and hobbits, the UK’s forests are magical no matter where you stand.

To put it bluntly, these are the best forests in the United Kingdom. The wilds of Scotland are displayed here, as are woods hugging the outskirts of London and beyond. A wholesome walk surrounded by trees has historically been known for its emotional therapeutic properties, and it doesn’t get much more comforting than the finest forests the UK has to offer.

Just keep an eye out for elves, fairies, hobbits, and other mythical creatures, okay?

1. New Forest Hampshire

The New Forest, located in South East England, is definitely worth a visit. It was a big part of my childhood thanks to many camping trips there. Once owned by William the Conqueror, who restricted its use to a hunting ground for wild boar and deer for the aristocracy only, it is now open to all, and there is much to discover with an area of 566sqkm (219sqm).

The New Forest is distinct in that it contains entire towns and villages, giving the impression that you have stepped into another world. The forest is enhanced by the presence of wild horses, and you will enjoy strolling through the region alongside these wonderful animals.

There are also numerous riding schools nearby if you want to explore the many paths from a different perspective.

: United Kingdom

2. Glen Affric, Scotland

Glen Affric, a place of getaway and self – assessment, is a magnificent forest that could effortlessly be pulled from Canada. With 48km (30mi) of native pinewoods, dense forests and glassy lochs are backed by snow-capped mountains.

There may be otters in the lake, red squirrels leaping between trees, and even golden eagles soaring above. Glen Affric has plenty of hiking trails, so you’ll see thundering waterfalls and jagged canyons on many of them.

This is an excellent example of Scotland’s magical wilderness, and it is an ideal location for connecting with nature. After a day of hiking, Scotland’s sensational forest can be as physically exhausting as they are on the eyes, so you’ll need a warm, cosy place to put your feet up.

: Cannich, Beauly IV4 7LY, United Kingdom

3. Gwydir Forest

Gwydir (which circles the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed in the heart of Snowdonia) is an enchanting scenery full of lakes, mountains.  It’s simple to become lost in its moss-covered tree roots, lichen-encrusted rocks, thick blankets of climbing plants, and tiny brooks flowing from jagged rocks.

Follow the old miners’ paths that twist among the trees and engross yourself in the myths and legends that abound here, such as the Robin Hood-like figure of Dafydd ap Siencyn, stories about a forest-dwelling dragon named Garog, or Saint Elen of Caernarfon, whose name is given to an old Roman route that runs through the forest.

: Holyhead Rd, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AA, United Kingdom

4. Sherwood Forest, Nottingham

An owl on a tree branch. Photo by Zden臎k Mach谩膷ek-

This fantastical, old forest is said to be Robin Hood’s haunts, where he spent time hiding among the towering oaks, robbing the rich and defending the poor. However,  it’s not just Robin Hood who lives in Sherwood Forest; it’s also a great place to see over 1,000 massive oak trees, many of which are centuries old.

The Major Oak, assumed to be 1,100 years old and the largest in Britain, is said to have protected Robin Hood and his companions. The famous oak trees are surrounded by sweet chestnut and gangly birch trees, as well as a plethora of pine and beech trees.

A woodpecker or a tawny owl may be perched on one of the branches. Whereas classical forest cottages give the impression that you could be the Prince of Thieves himself, you can avoid his luxury-free philosophy by soaking in hot tubs or lounging in grand living rooms.

We won’t tell him, don’t worry.

: Broad Dr, Mansfield NG21, UK, United Kingdom

5. Ashdown Forest

If Ashdown Forest looks remotely familiar, it’s because it was the inspiration for AA Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh stories. The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers some magnificent scenery of the Sussex countryside, as well as a plethora of flora and fauna thanks to its extensive heathland – an unique ecosystem in the UK.

Two Winnie-the-Pooh walks can be downloaded from the Ashdown Forest website. Both incorporate elements from the best known bear stories, such as Lone Pine, Roo’s Sandy Pit, and a rickety-looking wooden Pooh Sticks bridge where you can play your own game. Just be on the lookout for Heffalumps.

: Wych Cross, Forest Row RH18 5JP, United Kingdom

6. Hainault Forest

Amazing view of the forest as the sun sets. Photo by Zden臎k Mach谩膷ek-

In this 336-acre park, which is among the last remaining sections of the Forest of Essex: a former hunting ground and now one of the finest descriptions of ancient forests still in presence, you’ll feel a million miles away from the city.

Walk through the lush greenery, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plants – nightingales have been heard here, and turtle doves and butterflies can be seen in the summer. Come in the spring to see a carpet of cobalt bluebells, and don’t forget to visit the petting zoo and lake for the ultimate day out.

: Hainault Forest Country Park IG7 4QN, United Kingdom

7. Grizedale Forest

The 8,000-acre Grizedale Forest, tucked away in the heart of the Lake District, undulates throughout the rocky hills between Coniston Water and Windermere.

It has a best known sculpture path, as well as towering trees, incredible viewpoints like Carron Crag, and endless fern-fringed trails that wind past trickling streams and tarns. The charming sculptures were one of the country’s first forest sculpture paths, and they are all made of natural materials. Look for ‘Lady of the Water’ by Allanah Robbins and ’17 Degrees South’ by Linda Watson.

Also, keep an eye out for fallow deer, England’s only remaining indigenous forest herd.

: United Kingdom

8. Forest of Dean

This large section of the old forest land, squished between the Rivers Severn and Wye like a little island, contains 20 million trees, free-roaming boar, picture-postcard villages, and rustic scenery that inspired JRR Tolkien to write “The Lord of the Rings.”

The forest has altered dramatically throughout the years, with artifacts from its previous lives as a source of timber for Tudor warships and a coal mining site still visible. It now teems with wildlife and rare plants. Set out the sculpture trail through the forest to see pieces made of wood, stone, and stained glass hanging in the trees.

Or discover Puzzlewood, the inspiration for Tolkien’s Middle-earth, with its thick mossy paths, tangles of tree roots, and rickety wooden bridges and tunnels.

: High St, Coleford GL16 7EL, United Kingdom

9. Ashridge Estate

Ashridge Estate forest is simple out of a fairy tale, with twisted trees stretching out of the ground like wizened fingers, winding mossy verges, and colourful carpets of wild flowers. In fact, it has appeared in two Disney films: ‘Maleficent’ and ‘Into the Woods.’

Its old beech and oak forests are better explored on foot: there are miles of footpaths and bridleways winding through the trees.

Explore in late April and May to see the cobalt bluebell crops. If you start to feel a little enchanted, break the spell on the nearby Chiltern Hills’ wide-open commons and stunning chalk downlands.

: Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LX, United Kingdom

10. Epping Forest

A beautiful bird with a nut in his mouth. Photo by Zden臎k Mach谩膷ek-

You’ll notice a looming stretch of trees on the horizon if you ever travel up to Zone 4 in north-east London. That will be Epping Forest, a 6,000-acre stretch of vibrant heavily forested on the outskirts of London. It’s a beautiful stretch of mature native trees with over 100 lakes and ponds.

Walking trails are marked throughout the area, and horseback riding and cycling are both permitted. Four forest centres host regular events to help tourists of all ages appreciate the forest, and Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge provides more heritage about the region.

Amble down the Oak Trail, which crosses the M25 and leads to the forest’s more remote northern realms, where gnarled beeches have risen huge crowns.

You’ll also pass a deer sanctuary and Iron Age earthworks, where Boudicca is said to have fought the Romans. It’s a really lovely ramble.

Loughton IG10 4RW, United Kingdom