Explore woodland trails, adventure activities, and family play areas across this expansive forest destination with free entry and dog-friendly access.

Hamsterley Forest is a sprawling countryside destination managed by Forestry England, offering families diverse outdoor activities set within beautiful woodland landscapes. Visitors can enjoy walking trails ranging from easy access routes suitable for pushchairs to challenging mountain biking paths, alongside horse riding and Segway adventures for those seeking more thrilling experiences. The forest caters specifically to families with dedicated play areas, Gruffalo-themed activities, and forest activity sheets designed to engage children of all ages. Picnic facilities and barbecue areas allow families to make a full day of their visit, while the dog-friendly policy welcomes four-legged companions. Free entry makes it an accessible choice for families on any budget, and the venue's commitment to wellbeing activities extends to classes and educational visits for school groups. Beyond outdoor recreation, Hamsterley Forest hosts seasonal events, live music performances, and art installations throughout the year, creating a vibrant cultural space within nature. The site also offers accommodation options including camping, campervan stopovers, and off-grid cabins for those wishing to stay longer. With facilities supporting visitors from infants to adults, the forest provides year-round family enjoyment suitable for all fitness levels and interests.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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ray haswell

5 months ago

Vast area for walking, lots of different trails, sculptures to look out for, seating and adventure park for younger children, cafe and parking , parking is charged

C

Colin Peters

5 months ago

One of the jewels in County Durham's crown. Peace, tranquility, exhilarating all under one natural canopy. Somewhere to relax and get back to nature with a wide variety of trails for walkers of all levels

K

konnie turner

7 months ago

Fab walk though the forest you can make it as big or short as you like. The parking was expensive and there are a lot of bike paths that you can't go down which made it difficult at times.

D

Duncan Bell

9 months ago

The best forest for people with kids. Numerous play areas. For people who enjoy a good walk with lots to do beside. Excellent biking experience as well with various difficulty trails.

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Rachel Shuttleworth

a year ago

Various walks round the forest. The three becks walk is a longer one. There is plenty to do for children with shorter walks , play areas and little becks and streams to safely plodge in. Lots of cycle routes for off road bikes. Cafe in car park and loos. A perfect place to be in nature.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026