Visitor information

Welcome to England's only true mountain forest

Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play.

Set within the Lake District, a World Heritage Site, Whinlatter has unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. It is also home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trails in the Lake District. 

The Lakes are a dramatic and unique landscape which has been formed through man’s activities, such as forestry and land management. This landscape has inspired many of the world’s greatest artists, writers and thinkers.

At a glance

Road closure 04:30-09:30 am (weekdays only) on Whinlatter Pass to allow forestry works to take place safely. Whinlatter and onsite businesses open as usual.
26/04/2024 11:00
Forest event
14, 16 June, 5, 7, 12 July, 2, 4, 17 August, 6, 8 September
10am to 4pm

Get ready for an adventure with a Totally Wild UK professional forager! Join us on a journey to learn about the hidden world of wild edibles that surrounds us. And that’s not all...

Forest event
Saturday 15 June
Event starts at 8am
Meet at ride village in Keswick
Ride Overview

Forests tracks, gravel climbs, B-roads and not forgetting Lakes! The Lake District Mountain Epic is a perfect way to get the best of the Lake District in one ride.

Choo...

Forest event
Saturday 15 June
Start 10am
Meet at Revelin Moss Car Park

If you like running in circles, and up and down hills, you're in luck!

The Whopper is a 6hr or 12hr looped trail race set within Whinlatter forest.

Each loop is approximately 4...

Forest event
Saturday 22 June
Start 7pm
Meet at Noble Knott car park

How exciting that the summer solstice & full Strawberry moon coincide; the high vibing peak of energy of the solstice married with the love, joy & magic of the Strawberry full moon...

Food and drink

Flat bread falafel from Cafe Ambio

Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter

Whether you fancy a hot drink to start your visit, a warming meal or snack after your walk or ride or even a Sunday dinner then Cafe Ambio is the place to be! With a wide range of mouth-watering dishes, a warm and welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff who are always happy to help be sure to pop in next time you visit.

Whether you've just bought your first bike, or you're looking for your next adrenaline fix, Whinlatter Forest puts the mountain back into biking, with climbs to amazing views and...

2024 is The Gruffalo’s 25th birthday year and to celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure.

What to expect

The interactive family trail features all...

Stunning scenery, a higher calorie burn and increased mental wellbeing are just a few things to look forward to when you run in England's only true mountain forest.

Supported by...

Whinlatter is home to stunning views and offers some fantastic walks. There are many miles of gravel roads, surfaced paths and tracks to explore.

Each junction is marked with a...

Nearby forests

Dodd Wood from Bassenthwaite Lake

Dodd Wood is a fantastic place to get some stunning views of the northern Lake District. The network of walking trails will take you deep into the woodland and walk to the top of...

View of forest and hills from Carron Crag trail at Grizedale

Breath-taking views, stunning artwork and endless forest trails, come and discover all that Grizedale has to offer!

Explore the forest on two wheels, foot or horse back and keep...

A view from a mountain looking down a wooded valley

Lying on the north western edge of the Lake District National Park, Ennerdale is home to some of England’s most vibrant natural environments and one of the longest running wild...

View of Pillar from Blengdale Forest viewpoint

Discover a variety of outdoor experiences at Blengdale Forest, from a gentle walk up the valley of the River Bleng to a cycle ride around the forest roads. 

From the highest...

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