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Grizedale Forest

Creative Tourist

There’s not much but trees between Coniston Water and the little town of Hawkshead – 24.47 square kilometres of working forest to be exact – oh, and a series of sculptures which can be discovered by a number of waymarked walking trails. Known as the first forest for sculpture, there are now over 50 sculptures in the landscape including works by artists such as Andy Goldsworthy, Richard Harris and Sally Matthews, often made from naturally-occurring materials that blend with the landscape.

The innovation continues today and Forestry England is working on a series of projects to re-imagine Grizedale Forest as the international centre for art in the environment. Nor is it just sculpture – listen out for live literature events, Eden Arts’ fabulous picnic cinema and, of course, the mountain bike trails and treetop adventure Go Ape – including a zip wire trek adventure and an hour-long forest Segway trail. The latter includes views of Coniston Lake and the mountains beyond, while the other experiences here will take you high into the trees or swooping through the Douglas firs, even attempting a free-fall Tarzan swing. With different courses for everything from the most daredevil individuals to more conservative souls, it’s a great place to head for an adventure with a difference.

Check opening times before making a special visit.

GrizedaleHawksheadLA22 0QJ View map
Telephone: 0300 067 4495 Visit Now

Admission Charges

Free; parking charges apply

Services and Facilities

Also onsite artists studios, mountain bike trails, cafe and tree top adventure Go Ape.

Opening Hours

  • Monday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Tuesday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Wednesday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Thursday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Friday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Saturday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Sunday10:00am - 4:00pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Featured in

Outdoor Art in the North

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What's on near Grizedale Forest

Tom Branfoot. Photo Eleanor Hall, Museum of the Home
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Poetry at the Dusty Miller

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Where to go near Grizedale Forest

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Grizedale Arts continues to explore the role of art in society from its award winning eco-base near Coniston.

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The Lake District home of the radical social and cultural thinker, John Ruskin.

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Award-winning self-catering holiday accommodation that is not only beautiful but also supports the pioneering work of Grizedale Arts.

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