Nature and wildlife - Englands wooded kingdom

Delve deep into the peace of England's forests – the perfect place to walk.

A lush and tranquil canopy

Two billion trees cover just over 1 million hectares of woodland. No surprise then that you're never far from their lush and tranquil canopy. 

Many larger forests have a visitor centre where you can pick up a map and a tip or two. Find out the best things to see and do – including special events for children.

Choose from a leisurely amble or a 'ramble with a ranger' guided tour. Above all, enjoy the landscape, wildlife and fresh air all around you.

Large English forests

Some of the larger English forests include:  

The Royal Forest of Dean (www.royalforestofdean.info/) in Gloucestershire - the 'Queen of Forests' and the site of a fascinating sculpture trail.

Hatfield Forest in Essex - an ancient woodland with ornamental lakes.

The New Forest (www.thenewforest.co.uk/) in Hampshire - former hunting preserve of William the Conqueror and famous for its ponies.

Nottinghamshire's Sherwood Forest (www.sherwoodforest.org.uk/) - legendary home of Robin Hood.

The National Forest (www.nationalforest.org/) embracing 200 square miles of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

Bedgebury National Pinetum (www.bedgeburypinetum.org.uk/) - the finest collection of conifers in the world nestles quietly among lakes and valleys in the Kent countryside. Open 365 days a year, there is plenty to enjoy around the seasons. A shop and information centre is open daily and refreshments are also available.

Visit the website of the Forestry Commission (www.forestry.gov.uk/) to find out about forests in many other parts of the country. 

The Royal Forestry Society (www.rfs.org.uk/) website is another useful source for information on forests and woodlands.