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
Tuesday 21 May
Start 11am
Meet at Visitor Centre

Ladies, if you have a love for the outdoors, enjoy riding a bike but feel daunted by the thought of struggling up hills then now is your chance to try cycling with a difference.

Thi...

Forest event
Friday 24 May
Start 7pm
Meet at Noble Knott car park

The full Flower (or Hare) moon aligns with the colourful early summer flowers blooming and symbolises fertility, growth and change; blossoming into your fullest potential!

Calling...

Forest event
25 May
10am to 4pm

These workshops are designed for individuals and small groups (maximum of 8 people) who want to take their photography to the next level.

Course participants use their own equipment...

Forest event
Sunday 26 May
Start 9.45am
Meet at Visitor Centre

Can you conquer Whinlatter in 2024?

The Challenging Whinlatter Forest is the venue for this Trail Half Marathon & 10k in May 2024. With breath-taking views across the Lake...

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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