Whinlatter

Whinlatter is England's only true mountain forest, rising steeply above the western shore of Bassenthwaite Lake on the edge of the northern Lake District. Managed by Forestry England, the forest spreads across the slopes of Whinlatter Pass between Keswick and Cockermouth, with conifer plantations and broadleaf woodland climbing to over 500 metres. The visitor centre at Braithwaite sits at the heart of the site and acts as a base for walkers, cyclists and families exploring the wider Lake District National Park.

The forest is best known for its mountain biking, with graded trails including the Altura Trail offering long technical singletrack through the trees, and the gentler Quercus Trail for less experienced riders. Walkers can follow waymarked routes to viewpoints over Bassenthwaite Lake, Skiddaw and the Solway Firth, or take the family-friendly Gruffalo trail through the lower woodland. There is a Go Ape high ropes course, an orienteering network and a popular adventure play area near the visitor centre.

Whinlatter is also one of the best places in England to see ospreys: a live nest camera in the visitor centre relays footage from the Bassenthwaite ospreys during the breeding season, and Dodd Wood viewpoints sit just across the valley. A cafe, shop and cycle hire round out the facilities.