An Introduction to Whinlatter Forest

Whinlatter Forest is a forestry area managed by the Forestry Commission spanning over 1000 hectares in the Lake District National Park near Keswick in Cumbria, Northern England. Set in a stunning valley surrounded by dramatic fells and mountain peaks, Whinlatter offers visitors a beautiful natural backdrop for outdoor recreation and adventures.

With its mix of forest trails, cycling routes, walking paths, family activities and accommodation options, Whinlatter Forest attracts over 350,000 visitors per year. Its popularity continues to grow as more people discover the forest's many unique attractions and wealth of things to do for all ages and abilities.

Location and Access

Whinlatter Forest sits around 5 miles from the centre of Keswick, nestled between the Skiddaw mountain range to the north and Grisedale Pike fell to the south. The forest covers much of Whinlatter Pass, a high mountain route connecting the Vale of Keswick to the Lorton Valley.

The main visitor centre and forest hub lies just off the A66 trunk road, making Whinlatter easily accessible by car. Regular bus services run from Keswick throughout the year, while cyclists can reach the forest using a network of trails.

Key transport links and directions:

By car - Exit the A66 at the Whinlatter Pass and follow signs to the visitor centre/main car park

By bus - Regular buses run to Whinlatter from Keswick bus station year-round

By bike - Traffic-free cycle trails connect Whinlatter Forest to Keswick and other Lake District towns

Facilities and Attractions

As one of England's top recreational forests, Whinlatter has extensive facilities to support visitors spending anything from a few hours to a full camping holiday within the forest. Key amenities and highlights include:

Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre

The hub of the forest, with:

Cafe and shop selling food, drinks and outdoor gear

Play areas and Gruffalo trail

Forest walks starting from the visitor centre

Bike hire outlet and cycling information

Information on the forest's wildlife and conservation

Mountain Biking Trails

Home to some of Britain's best mountain biking with:

• Waymarked red, blue and green grade forest trails
• Inspiring routes to suit beginners and expert riders
• Bike hire, workshop and skills area

Go Ape Forest Adventure

Tree-top ropes courses, zip lines and obstacles including:

• Treetop high ropes challenges
• A huge forest segway course
• An adrenaline-pumping quick jump

Accommodation

Options for staying overnight in magical forest lodges:

• Ennerdale forest lodges
• Grizedale lodges

Walking Trails

Over 30km of walking paths ranging from easy to demanding including:

• Family-friendly nature trails near the visitor centre
• Long-distance routes to High Seat and Lord's Seat fell
• Access to famous peaks like Grizedale Pike and Blencathra

With excellent facilities in a picturesque setting, the forest provides something for visitors seeking action, relaxation or an escape into nature.

As one of the premier destinations for mountain biking in England, Whinlatter Forest attracts cyclists from across Britain to ride its famous trails. The forest has terrain and tracks to suit novice riders and children as well as challenging infamous cyclists with extreme downhill and cross-country routes.

Mountain Biking Trails

Whinlatter has England's first purpose-built mountain bike trail centre situated high in the pine forest. Built by world leading trail designers, the bike trails expertly blend into the natural contours and landscapes.

The waymarked routes give riders access to over 45km of bike-optimised tracks through forests and scenic spots to cater for different skill levels.

Red Grade Trails

The double black and red graded Altura Trail epitomises Whinlatter as a mountain biking mecca. This demanding, technical singletrack ride mixes tricky rock gardens, bermed corners and narrow plank bridges with adrenaline pumping descents.

The Altura Trail interlinks with red graded routes like the Quercus Trail to offer chest pounding downhill runs only suitable for proficient mountain bikers.

Blue Grade Trails

Families and novice cyclists can ride lengthy blue-graded tracks including the Badger Trail and Skyline route. These mix easier forest road climbs with flowing, bermed descents and some rooty/rocky sections to test riders' skills.

Green Beginner Trails

For those getting started, Whinlatter Forest has a skills area and pump track plus two dedicated green graded trails. The easy Clough Trail and Therapy Trail allow beginners to ride loops featuring gradual climbing and wide, rolling descents.

With options for all abilities and continuous trail improvements, Whinlatter's cycling offering makes it the Lake District's top forest for mountain bikers.

Cross Country Trails

As well as downhill rides, Whinlatter features recognised cross country cycling trails leading to incredible viewpoints. Fit riders can take on all-day epics to the summit of mighty Grizedale Pike or the forest's highest point at Lord's Seat.

Both routes climb over 1000ft onto the ridgeline before enjoying breath-taking panoramas over Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite and beyond. More hardcore cyclists do the full Whinlatter Forest Skyline - a 29km on/off-road odyssey with over 3000ft of ascent.

These back-breaking cross country challenges may feature hike-a-bike sections but offer once in a lifetime experiences.

Family Cycling Opportunities

With safer green grade tracks, scenic blue routes and bike rental, Whinlatter Forest suits family cycling trips. Children can start slowly on the skills loop before moving onto longer forest road trails like Badger Trail which still features fun downhill sections. Cycling is a fun way for households to explore the woods together.

To make planning easier, the visitor centre has maps, kid bike hire plus trails picked specially for children. Families also use Whinlatter's traffic-free cycle trails to ride safely from Keswick right into the gorgeous forest scenery.

Bike Hire and Facilities

Whinlatter has a premium bike shop and hire centre at the visitor centre boasting:

• High spec adult and kids rental bikes
• Professional workshops for repairs/maintenance
• Knowledgeable staff for trail advice
• Changing rooms with showers and lockers
• Cafe, play areas and bike wash stations nearby

With excellent cycling amenities amidst sensational scenery, the forest offers an unforgettable biking adventure for all.

Whinlatter Forest presents boundless opportunities for walking and hiking adventures amidst the wooded slopes of the Lake District fells. An extensive network of paths allows ramblers to immerse themselves within lush forests or climb high onto breathtaking ridge-lines.

Nature Trails and Forest Walks

The Whinlatter Forest visitor centre has relaxing, family-friendly walking trails perfect for short forest wanders. These easy paths snake through pine woods filled with twisting tree roots, mountain streams and curiosity-piquing forest sights.

The Gruffalo Trail

This short 1km route uses scenes and characters from the classic children's tale to create an enchanting woodland experience. Kids follow clues along the trail searching for the Gruffalo while parents appreciate facts about British wildlife.

The Badger Trail

Offering a choice of paths, this longer trail navigates undulating forest tracks, historical sites and photogenic viewpoints overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. It allows ramblers to immerse within the sights, sounds and smells of Whinlatter's wooded slopes.

The Clough Trail

Beginning near the visitor centre play area, this 1.2km walk ascends gradually into pine forest via refreshed paths. It's another great option for short forest walks with children featuring interactive features about local wildlife.

These charming trails offer relaxed ways to spend an hour or two with family ambling through the woods before visiting the cafe.

Fell Walking Routes

For serious walkers, Whinlatter Forest gives access to celebrated fell peaks via clearly waymarked tracks. These steeper routes climb thousands of feet onto rocky ridgelines with awe-inspiring panoramas. Some iconic routes accessible from the forest are:

Blencathra

Famous as one of the Lake District's great hikes with the Hall's Fell ridge walk offering dizzying exposure and breathtaking vistas north to Scotland.

High Seat

A soaring horseshoe ridge encircling the forest including panoramic 360 views out toward Keswick and Catbells.

Braithwaite Wife Hole

One of Cumbria's most schizophrenic walks showcasing rugged clifftops and a magical secret valley teeming with waterfalls.

Grizedale Pike

An incredible 11-mile circuit to this forest summit taking in Sour Milk Gill, Candleseaves Bog and Watersmeet.

With such world class mountain hikes on its doorstep, few walking destinations in England rival the diverse discovery, majestic views and elation found hiking in Whinlatter Forest.

Guided Walks

Novices concerned about navigating Whinlatter Forest's vast trail network can book guided walks all year round. Knowledgeable leaders will discuss the area's ecology, history plus fauna and flora over the course of stunning routes.

Typical guided hikes climb onto lofty vantage points like Lord's Seat or meander through enchanting oak woods filled with Spring bluebell displays. These tours allow first-time visitors to explore the forest safely while learning about the landscape from walking experts.

Whinlatter Forest offers child-friendly attractions that turn a family day out in the woods into an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning Lake District scenery.

As England's largest free admission forest, it provides affordable options to keep kids entertained for hours. Visitors also appreciate the on-site cafe, play areas, cycling and walking trails suited for all generations.

Go Ape Forest Adventure Course

Go Ape Whinlatter Forest is one of the Lake District's premier family activity days out comprising of tree-based rope courses set 30m high in the pine canopy.

Treetop Challenges

Nerve-testing rope bridges, Tarzan swings and staggering wire crossings make up the breath-taking daredevil high ropes course. Families face fears together tackling obstacles between platforms in the treetops.

The tiered levels allow everyone from adult thrill-seekers to children over 1m tall to enjoy age-appropriate challenges. With safety harnesses attached, taking on Go Ape is a fun-fuelled confidence booster.

Forest Segway Experience

Segways allow the whole tribe to explore the forest on an exciting off-road tour. After learning how to ride the self-balancing transporters, families zip through woodland tracks and obstacles at up to 12mph!

Quick Jump

A free fall rush for the bravest visitors. Participants step off a 15m high platform to experience the adrenaline rush of plunging towards the forest floor while safely harnessed.

With smiles guaranteed, Go Ape turns memorable family days out in Whinlatter Forest into awesome adventures.

The Gruffalo Trail

This short 1km walking route uses wooden sculptures and clues inspired by the classic Julia Donaldson book to create an immersive adventure. Children lead the way spotting Gruffalos and his friends along a magical mystery tour suitable for tiny trekkers with sturdy strollers.

It's a playful way to ignite kids' imaginations and appreciate British wildlife during a fun hour in the forest. Adults enjoy the perfect photo opportunities too!

Visitor Centre Play Area

Whinlatter Forest has an excellent play area next to the visitor centre including towering timber structures bridged with scramble nets, tubed slides plus rotating equipment. Smaller kids enjoy the toddler's play zone with mini-slides, activity panels and ride-on springers.

Families appreciate the playground's setting surrounded by pine forest next to the cafe terrace overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. Kids can let off steam for hours on the structures before refuelling on tasty treats.

With engaging attractions from high ropes to Gruffalo trails, Whinlatter Forest promises memorable family days out making lifetime memories.

As ancient woodland regenerating amidst breathtaking mountain terrain, Whinlatter Forest harbours diverse Cumbrian wildlife. Although patrolled by the mythical Gruffalo, real-life red squirrels, deer and birds of prey inhabit Britain's only mountain forest.

Understanding the forest ecology helps visitors appreciate this biodiversity haven sitting within the Lake District National Park.

Trees and Plants

Rolling valleys filled with mature pine hide a mosaic of interconnected ecosystems nurturing rich flora. Heather moorlands, wooded gills plus winding becks create habitats for specialised upland species.

Trees

Non-native Sitka Spruce dominates visibility but sessile oaks cling to life on crags with holly, hazel and birch scrub woodland lower down. Ancient broadleaf survivors suggest this land hosted mixed forest before 19th century felling.

Common Forest Trees:

• Sitka Spruce - Fast growing conifers making up most of the forest
• Sessile Oak – Hardy oaks with acorns feeding wildlife
• Rowan – Beautiful trees with red berries and white flowers
• Silver Birch – Elegant trees with bright white bark

Plants

Cumbria's clean air and high rainfall produce lush undergrowth with bracken and bilberry below the pine canopy. In sunlight pockets, wild garlic and bluebells prosper in Spring with foxgloves later flowering during Summer. Bog Asphodel brightens acid soil as heathers purpley-pink announce Autumn.

These plants support moths, butterflies and mammals across the changing seasons.

Mammals

Sightings of red squirrels frolicking in pine branches delight modern visitors considering this agile rodent Britain's rarest and most endangered mammal.

Gray squirrels threaten reds driving them towards extinction by stealing food and carrying squirrel pox. Whinlatter actively conserves red squirrels via the Penrith and District Red Squirrel Group.

Other mammals found in the forest include:

• Deer - Roe, red and fallow deer graze open meadows and forest fringes.
• Badgers - Secretive badgers forage by night so are rarely seen despite their extensive setts and diggings.
• Foxes – These bushy-tailed carnivores hunt rabbits and birds under forest cover.

As apex predators, visitors may also spot elusive stoats or observe domestic dogs enjoying the trails.

Birdlife

The diversity of trees coupled with ideal nesting habitat allows over 90 species of birds inhabit the forest through the seasons. In the pine woods, crested tits flit between cones while tiny goldcrests feast on insects.

Listen for the repetitive call of willow warblers by gills and becks or glimpse vibrant redstarts beside ancient oaks. Buzzards circle thermals above treetops and ravens cronking echos through clearings.

During winter months, flocks of fieldfare and redwings arrive from Scandinavia to feed on berries before travelling north to breed again.

For fans of birds, Whinlatter Forest offers sightings of England's most vibrant woodland species. The visitor centre has bird identification charts plus staff offer advice on the best walks spots.

Whinlatter Forest transforms through the seasons as wildlife adapts to shifting conditions and deciduous broadleaves change colour. Each new chapter brings different sights, adventures and reasons to explore the slopes overlooking Derwentwater.

While mountain biking remains popular year-round, certain activities suit specific seasons adding variety to repeat visits. Here are the forest's seasonal highlights:

Spring

Mild weather entices wildlife out from hibernation as the forest springs back to life. Lambs graze meadows while native broadleaf trees glow green against dark pine woods.

Key Highlights:

• New life - Baby birds chirping, lambs bleating and frogs spawning
• Bluebells & Wild Garlic – Floral carpets in Broadleaf woods
• Easter Events - Cadbury Easter egg trails and crafts
• Warmer Weather – Ideal for longer walks and easy mountain biking
• Lighter Nights – Letting visitors stay out longer

By April, most facilities have re-opened allowing families to comfortably enjoy the Easter school holidays. For tourists, Keswick launches its walking festival in May.

Summer

At the peak of the tourist season, long sunny days offer the full majesty of the Northern Lake District. Visitors hike fell tops under blue skies and clear air or career down cycling trails before relaxing at the cafe.

Key Highlights:

• Long days - Light until 10pm allowing late adventures
• Warmest Temperatures - Ideal for most outdoor activities
• Peak Green Scenery - Lush vegetation and floral meadows
• School Holidays - Family friendly facilities in full swing
• Cafe Buzz - Welcoming terrace filled with happy visitors
• Forest Events - Summer festivals, markets and guided walks

Whinlatter makes an excellent family holiday base with child-friendly attractions plus nearby Keswick hosting carnivals and shows.

Autumn

Vibrant autumnal colours set the forest ablaze in golden hues and reddening leaves. Crisp sunny days give way to atmospheric misty mornings ideal for snapping iconic views over Derwentwater. It's the time for cosy pubs, harvest festivals and making the most of the crisper days.

Key Highlights:

• Autumn Colours - Beech, oak and maple leaves turning golden yellow, orange and red
• Misty Mornings - Lakes and fells shrouded in atmospheric mist and fog
• Fungi - Appearance of wild mushrooms and toadstools
• Red Deer Rut - Male red deer battling and roaring during breeding season
• Bird Migration - Fieldfares, redwings and whooper swans arriving from Scandinavia
• Harvest Festivals - Rural church and village harvest festivals and events
• Quieter Trails - Less crowded walking routes and mountain bike trails
• Half Term - Outdoor family adventures over the October school break

Autumn brings a more subtle beauty to Whinlatter Forest but still offers plenty of sights and activities to impress visitors. Fallen leaves make trails more technical for keen mountain bikers while photographers capture classic views of golden Larches reflected on Bassenthwaite Lake's mirrored surface.

It's also the ideal time to spot majestic red stags roaring by day and listen out for barking roe deer under full harvest moons clear night skies. Those lingering longer as days shorten may catch Wainwright's ghostly apparition wandering the hills and forests!

Winter

Snow-dusted pine branches and icy trails transform Whinlatter into a true winter wonderland with more hardy visitors appreciating the cold, crisp days.

Key Highlights:

• Snowfall – Occasional heavy snow turns the forest magical
• Frosty Mornings – Crystallised cobwebs and pine needles
• Evergreen Forest – Spruces and pines still green as broadleaves fall
• Steamer Viewing – Daily return of ospreys and other raptors
• Quieter Trails – Secluded footpaths and mountain bike runs
• Winter Events – Seasonal trails, crafts and workshops

The visitor centre offers warming soup and hot drinks while forest classrooms teach bushcraft skills. Hardier cyclists still shred powdery singletrack as others snowshoe or cross-country ski.

Short days and long nights mean visitors end adventures toasting crumpets and marshmallows around log fire pits. Then there's awaiting cosy, warm, lodges and cabins after exhilarating days in the cold.

While many visit Whinlatter Forest on day trips from Keswick or elsewhere in the Northern Lakes, others choose to truly immerse themselves by staying overnight within the wooded valley.

Accommodation options range from budget bothy pods through to luxury forest lodges with something for every taste and budget.

After adventures, visitors find country pubs, restaurants and cafes serving hearty meals showcasing the region's finest local produce from field and fell.

Places to Stay

As well as camping, Whinlatter Forest offers unique accommodation:

Forest Lodges

• Luxurious four and five person lodges featuring:
• Spacious rooms with forest views
• Modern kitchens and luxury bathrooms
• Outdoor decking with hot-tub
• Parking and bike storage

These modern woodland retreats sit privately within the forest allowing guests to fully connect with nature. Lodges suit couples, groups of friends and families looking for a comfy base for exploring Whinlatter and the wider Lake District by day before relaxing at night.

Most lodge guests dine at nearby country pubs and Keswick restaurants to sample excellent regional cuisine.

Ennerdale Forest Lodges

More remote two-bedroom lodges in an exclusive setting 5 miles west of Whinlatter with all facilities provided for a relaxing stay.

Bothy Pods

Back to basic two or five person camping pods giving budget access to the forest from £20 per night. These simple insulated huts allow visitors to bed down amidst the woods and awaken to birdsong without camping gear.

The pods suit hiking groups, mountain bikers plus overnighters catching buses around the Lake District. Shared washroom blocks are provided nearby.

Where to Eat and Drink

Whinlatter Forest visitor centre has an excellent cafe serving hot and cold meals, snacks and drinks overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake. The sun terrace allows alfresco dining after family adventures.

Elsewhere, country pubs and restaurants lie under 10 minute drive including:

The Snooty Fox Inn

A family and dog friendly pub renowned locally for its hearty homemade dishes and cask ales. Sunday roasts are a speciality.

Pheasant Inn

Another famed gastro-pub famous for game and local meat dishes in a cosy setting. Extensive wine list.

Beef and Ale House

Highly rated award winning restaurant in Braithwaite specialising in prime aged Lakeland beef and matching wine.

Keswick offers a wealth of excellent international restaurants and bars to suit all tastes after time spent in the great outdoors!

This section covers key details, travel tips and need to know information for planning a trip to magical Whinlatter Forest in the Northern Lake District.

Opening Times

The forest remains accessible year-round via hiking trails and mountain bike paths. Visitor centre opening times:

Summer

March to October - Open daily 9am to 5pm

Cafe open to 4:30pm

Winter

November to February - Open Friday to Sunday 10am to 3pm

Cafe open 11am to 3pm

Some facilities close certain weekdays off-peak while Go Ape operates weekends and school holidays only. Visitors are advised to check opening times if visiting off-season or midweek.

Ticket Prices and Passes

As a Forestry England site, entry to Whinlatter Forest is free with charges for parking, some attractions and rentals:

Car Parking - Approximately £5 per day

Go Ape Forest - From £20 per person online

Bike Hire - From £30 per day adults, £25 kids

Guided Walks - From £12.50 per adult

Annual visitor passes are available if planning multiple visits offering free parking and up to 25% off certain activities.

Concessionary prices apply for selected groups including families, seniors and those with disabilities. Advance online booking usually guarantees best rates for attractions and bike hire.

How to Get There

By Car - From the M6 motorway take exit 40 onto the A66 towards Keswick and exit at the Whinlatter Pass junction. Well signed with brown tourist attraction signs. Approx 1 hour from Penrith, 40 mins from Carlisle.

By Bus - Frequent buses run all year between Keswick, Cockermouth and Whinlatter operated by Stagecoach. Takes 20 minutes from Keswick bus station.

By Bike - National Cycle Route 71 connects Whinlatter Forest to Keswick via quiet roads and traffic-free trails. It's a moderate 9km ascending over 300m. Touring cyclists should pre-book lodges or pods.

By Foot - Long distance paths like the Cumbria Way pass the forest entrance making Whinlatter an excellent stopover point for multi-day hikers.

Weather and Conditions

Weather on Whinlatter Pass can be extreme with heavy rain falling up to 274 days per year thanks to Atlantic systems hitting the Lake District fells. Conditions change fast as cloud swallows summits so proper gear is essential.

Summer – Warm and mild but still windy with showers possible any day.

Autumn/Winter – Snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures likely on higher trails

Spring – Frosty starts becoming warmer by midday with occasional snow

Visitors should check mountain weather forecasts plus carry waterproofs, maps and spare clothing for changeable conditions. Sturdy footwear essential year round.

Additional Information

Whinlatter Forest Park Website – Latest news, webcams and detailed trail maps

Lake District National Park -  www.lakedistrict.gov.uk – Regional info and advice

Go Lakes Travel Line – 01539 822222 – Timetables, traffic and travel updates

Visitor Centres – Located in Keswick, Cockermouth, Carlisle and Penrith