Whinlatter Forest
England's only true mountain forest, with walking, mountain-biking and family trails, viewpoints, Go Ape, bike hire, a visitor centre, shop and cafe near Keswick.
About Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter is England's only true mountain forest, climbing high above Braithwaite with views towards Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. It is one of the most activity-packed Forestry England sites in Cumbria, with waymarked walks, purpose-built mountain-bike trails, running routes and family adventures starting around the visitor centre.
What can you do at Whinlatter?
- Follow waymarked forest walks and viewpoints
- Ride purpose-built mountain-bike trails
- Use signed running routes, subject to forest operations
- Book Go Ape and other organised activities
- Hire bikes and use the visitor centre, shop and Cafe Ambio
- Try seasonal family trails and special events
Trail access changes when forestry work, storms or maintenance affect the site. When checked on 6 September 2026, Forestry England said the half-marathon running trail was closed because of forest operations, with no access beyond Hobcarton car park on that route. Check the live alert before travelling.
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Opening times
- Main car park and toilets: normally 8.30am to 8.30pm
- Visitor centre and shop: normally 10am to 4pm daily
- Bike hire: normally 10am to 5pm daily
- Cafe Ambio: normally 9.30am to 4pm weekdays and 9.30am to 4.30pm weekends
These hours can change by season, weather and operational need. There is no overnight parking or camping in the main visitor car park.
Parking
The main car park uses ANPR and payment on exit. The published tariff checked on 6 September 2026 was:
- Up to 20 minutes: free
- First hour: £2.90
- Each additional 15 minutes: £0.70
- Maximum day charge: £14
Blue Badge holders pay the parking charge. Payment is available by card at the machines, online through Park with Ease within the stated payment window, or in cash at the visitor centre during its opening hours. Valid Forestry England membership may include parking under its terms.
See our Whinlatter Forest Main Car Park guide for the dedicated parking record.
Accessibility
The main visitor area has four accessible parking spaces and accessible facilities near the visitor centre. Individual trails vary greatly in gradient, width, surface and exposure. Check the specific route, current diversions and equipment requirements rather than treating the whole mountain forest as step-free.
Getting there
Whinlatter is around three miles from Braithwaite on the B5292 Whinlatter Pass road towards Lorton. From Keswick, take the A66 west, turn towards Braithwaite and follow the B5292. The approach is a mountain road, so check conditions in winter or severe weather.
Seasonal 77 and 77A Honister Rambler buses have served Whinlatter, but operating dates and times change. Check the current Stagecoach timetable and the final return before setting out.
Dogs and families
Dogs are welcome in the forest under Forestry England guidance, but must be controlled around wildlife, other visitors and trail users. Cycling routes and play areas require close supervision of children. Some paid activities have separate age, height or booking rules.
Before you travel
- Check the live Forestry England alert for closures and diversions.
- Download a trail map where possible because signal can vary.
- Wear footwear suitable for steep, wet and uneven forest ground.
- Allow enough time to return before the car park closes.
- Book Go Ape, bike hire and special events separately.
Visitor, parking and live trail information checked 6 September 2026.
Worth It
A superb all-weather outdoor base for walkers, riders and families. The mountain setting is the real draw, but check live trail closures and budget for ANPR parking before travelling.
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