Hamsterley Forest

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Details:

Telephone:	01388 488312
Email:	neil.taylor@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Website:	http://www.forestry.gov.uk/hamsterleyforest

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Description:

The forest is signposted off the A68, north of West Auckland. Cars are charged £3 each on the Forest Drive to access the Forest and it’s facilities (there is no charge for visitors on foot).

The largest forest in County Durham, covering some 2000 hectares, Hamsterley Forest is one of the area's most popular visitor attractions. It has something for everyone-there are several large car parks and picnic areas, a playpark long with the shop and tearoom. There are several walks and cycle routes in the forest ranging from the one and a half mile easy access footpath to the seven mile black cycle route and downhill descent course for the more adventurous. For those with an interest in wildlife there is plenty to see all year round with information available in the Visitor Centre.

2000 hectares of mixed woodland lying between the Wear and Tees valleys on the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Hamsterley is a delightful oasis of broadleaved and coniferous woodland, sprawling along the sides of a sheltered valley. Visitors to Hamsterley have no shortage of options when it comes to activities. With waymarked walks, cycle routes and horse riding trails, all levels of fitness and ability are catered for. Follow all that exercise with a snack or slice of lovely homemade cake in our tearoom and a browse around the gift shop and visitor centre.There is also a playpark which is now open.

The Visitor Centre houses displays on forest wildlife and management. There is also a small gift shop, tea room and playpark. It is also the starting point of the scenic four mile forest drive that runs through the heart of the forest giving access to the numerous picnic sites along the way.

Places to Visit