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Lake District North West |
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Forest Enterprise
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Introduction
The woodlands and forests of the District offer the visitor a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment amongst North West England's most attractive and dramatic landscapes.
Forest Enterprise is carrying on a great tradition of forestry and woodland management in the Lakes Forest District. The oakwoods at Grizedale first came under management in the 11th Century with the monks of Furness Abbey, and this management — mainly as “coppice”, has continued through the ages under many owners. Now these woodlands are cared for by Forest Enterprise on behalf of the nation. Other forests are much younger. The mountain forest of Whinlatter has been created by the planting of a great many tree species since the Forestry Commission inception in 1919. The task of our foresters nowadays is to ensure that all of our national woodlands meet people’s needs and aspirations for the 21st century — for timber, leisure, wildlife and landscape.
Each woodland has its own character reflecting the strong influence of the underlying soils, geology and landform. Our management seeks to preserve this character: whether is it of the oakwoods of the Southern Fells, the towering groves of Douglas Fir of the mountain forest of Dodd Wood, or the pine woods on the drier sandstones of the Eden Valley in north-east Cumbria. In other areas such as Ennerdale felling gives the opportunity to remodel and reshape the forest so that it sits in harmony with the natural contours of the landscape.
The forests of Lakes Forest District are all working forests. In addition to producing timber and providing for the recreational needs of visitors, the woodlands of Cumbria are home to a rich variety of wildlife. Red, roe and sika deer can be seen by the early riser whilst no visit would be complete without a glimpse of our native, but secretive, red squirrel. Forest Enterprise is proud of its conservation record, managing forests so that flowers, insects and animals abound whilst historic features are protected and maintained.
Each area of Forest Enterprise woodland provides the visitor with a unique experience, whether you are held in awe by the scale of Ennerdale‘s dramatic landscape, where the towering hulk of Pillar Rock stands guard over its sibling forest; or question the meaning of life as expressed through the exciting sculptures at the famous Grizedale Forest Park.
There is something for everyone. Perhaps the quieter pleasures of forests such as Miterdale and Hardknott near Wastwater, are what you seek: whilst the children will not forget their adventures at Whinlatter Forest Park, where they met the giant badger in his sett and faced the forest challenges of the Rabbit Run and Fox Trot.
The Forests
High Stand Backup Just six miles from the centre of Carlisle this woodland offers a gentle afternoon stroll for all members of the family. Walks of almost any length can be made at your own discretion by linking together the many paths and tracks which meander through mixed forest.
Setmurphy Forest Backup This developing woodland, not far from Cockermouth, offers varied views over the Derwent Valley and an opportunity to try your hand (or feet!) at orienteering. Maps available from the Cockermouth Leisure Centre. Tel: 01900 823596.
Dodd Wood Backup Towering high above Bassenthwaite Lake, the Dodd provides unrivalled views from Derwent Water to the south and to the hills of Dumfries and Galloway to the north. These are especially enjoyed by those prepared to make the journey to the summit! Dodd Wood offers attractive and varied waymarked walks from a central car park with picnic areas, cafe and toilets. There is a tearoom and toilets open from April to October also. A Guide Map is available from the Old Sawmill tearoom and Whinlatter Visitor Centre. (see number below)
Whinlatter Forest Park Backup England’s only mountain forest offers a wide variety of activities from waymarked routes to Lord’s Seat and Barf, to the worlds first Trail-Orienteering Course. Alternatively relax at the Visitor Centre by browsing through the forest shop, exploring the exhibition or enjoying a pleasant meal in the forest tea room whilst soaking up the views across Hospital Fell and Grisedale Pike. Guide Maps and information are available from the Visitor Centre. Tel: 017687 78469.
Ennerdale Backup Some of the most breathtaking scenery in Cumbria can be discovered whilst walking or cycling through this, the largest forest in the west of the county. Any visit, no matter how brief, will leave long-lasting memories. Car parking and seasonal toilets are available, as well as a Guide Map from Whinlatter Visitor Centre. (see number above)
Blenydale Backup This small Forest, quietly tucked away behind the village of Gosforth, is an ideal stopover for walkers who enjoy a quiet stroll through mature woodland adjacent to a river. Access is on foot from the village of Gosforth. This forest provides an ideal starting point for walkers seeking peace and quiet.
Miterdale Backup This is an area well worth exploring. The mature mixed conifers blend with extensive areas of native oakwoods to provide a forest dedicated to conservation, recreation and timber production. Car parking is beside the River Mite. No visit to Miterdale would be complete without a tour of Giggle Alley, a former Japanese water-garden adjacent to the village of Eskdale Green. From the village car park you can explore all the paths and a magnificent viewpoint in little more than thirty minutes.
Hardknott Forest Backup Set deep in some of Lakeland’s most wild and rugged scenery this beautiful forest has much to offer the visitor. From a delightfully situated car park and picnic area on the banks of the River Duddon walkers can explore the forest and the fells beyond, while the less energetic can just sit and take in the views.
Broughton Moor Backup A secluded forest set in dramatic scenery is to be found approximately five miles south-east of the village of Coniston. Access is by the unclassified public road from Torver to Broughton Mills. Two car parks offer fine views south to the Duddon Estuary whilst the third car park is close by the ancient settlement known as “The Hawk”.
Grizedale Forest Park Backup Internationally famous for the Grizedale Society’s “Theatre in the Forest” and forest sculptures, Grizedale offers the complete day out with an extensive range of waymarked trails, adventure playground, picnic areas, forest shop, exhibition and forest tearoom. Guide maps and information are available from the Visitors Centre. Tel: (01229) 860010.
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