The National Forest is a 200 square mile area of woodland, meadows, and rugged landscapes covering parts of the Midlands counties Staffordshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire, right in the heart of the country.
More than 9.5 million trees have been planted since the project began in 1991, transforming a former mining heartland into a lush, green playground enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and wildlife spotters.
The National Forest things to do
With hundreds of miles of walking and cycling paths, it’s no wonder The National Forest is popular with people who love getting active in The Great Outdoors.
Tackle the gentle trails and hearty pub lunches, rise to the challenges of the 75 mile National Forest Way, or join fellow walkers at the National Forest Walking Festival every May.
Visit the National Memorial Arboretum and discover thought-provoking memorials, beautiful woodlands, and an exciting year-round programme of events, from the breath-taking Illuminated Arboretum to the celebrations of Armed Forces Weekend.
Take the family to the National Forest Adventure Farm, where you can meet and feed the animals, let off some steam in the huge indoor and outdoor play areas, pick a pumpkin in the Autumn, and brave the scares of Screamfest at Halloween.
Explore the brewing heritage and sup local ales in Burton upon Trent, enjoy some well-deserved R&R at the Hoar Cross Hall spa hotel, and browse the independent stores and eateries at the delightful Barton Marina.
How to get to The National Forest
Getting to The National Forest is simple as it’s located between four major cities – Birmingham, Derby, Leicester and Nottingham – and close to several large Staffordshire conurbations, including Burton upon Trent, Lichfield and Tamworth.
The nearest is Burton upon Trent, which you can reach by road via the M1 (Junction 24) and A50, or the M42 (Junction 10) and A38.
By rail, the closest stations are at Burton upon Trent, Lichfield Trent Valley, Lichfield City and Tamworth.
There is also a direct bus service linking Burton upon Trent and Lichfield, which passes through villages in the National Forest including Yoxall and Alrewas.
Further information is available at https://www.diamondbuses.com/bus-services/em/em-12-burton/
