Whinlatter Forest is great for a family day out. You can start off with a play in the large play area, then a walk round one of the many walking trails and stop for a picnic lunch whilst admiring the amazing view across Kewsick and Derwent Water.
They have a very large play area, called the WildPlay trail, which is mainly designed for older children but our 2 year old also enjoys the big slides, tyre swing and splashing in the unique water-play area that is fed by a natural stream. If it’s not too windy you can sometimes have a good game of table tennis too.
They have a pram-friendly Stickman walking trail, which the kids really enjoyed following along and finding all of the characters from the stories.
The Go Ape there looks fantastic and has all the usual set up with the high rope courses and zip wires. There are lots of mountain biking trails all over, although these are mainly aimed at older children and adults.
There is a visitor’s centre and shop where you can buy a copy of the trail. Parking can be expensive, but it goes towards maintaining the forest and it is otherwise free, including the toilets which are always clean. We have joined Forestry England to cover the cost of parking, since we go often enough to Whinlatter, Ennerdale, and Grizedale, plus others, it is worth the membership.
Practicalities
- Parking: Whinlatter’s car park is large, but it can fill up quickly, so arrive early on weekends. It’s free for Forestry England members.