Skiddaw Forest Nature Reserve

Skiddaw Forest is a remote upland nature reserve managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust and is not a conventional planted forest or staffed visitor centre. It encompasses moor, peat bog, fells and valuable wildlife habitats. Public open-access rights and the existing bridleway remain, subject to appropriate safety notices and any temporary conservation work zones.

The Trust is working to restore about 1,077 acres of damaged peatland, with wider plans for native woodland and montane scrub over many decades. There is no vehicle access to the reserve. Visitors need suitable hillwalking equipment, navigation skills and an arrival route from outside the reserve. Read the nature restoration and access guide.