Downloads: GPX File | KML File | Google Maps File | OS Online route
About Greystoke Forest | Parking Location | OS Map | Current Weather
Our accommodation for the week happened to be very close to Greystoke Forest, having chosen it based on some of the nearby peaks we had planned to summit. Coming off the fells reasonably early, we wanted somewhere for a nice summer evening wander. We found there was a small carpark and decided to set off and explore the forest.
We started at the above-mentioned car park and headed straight down the main path into the woodland. We soon came upon a crossroad and headed straight over, this is an easy path to follow, it’s wide enough and flat enough for forestry commission vehicles so navigating is less of an issue, and we just wanted to make sure we explored as much as we could.
Following this patch to the edge of the forest, we then turned right and headed through another section of woodland. The paths and woodland were very similar, and we would have probably found it a little boring if it wasn’t for the wildlife. Along this route we saw a barn owl float through the trees and glide over the path in front of us, a wonderful sight! As we meandered with the sun slowly lowering in the sky, we were treated to lots of other birds and animals making little appearances.
At the end of this long stretch, we headed left up to Tippy hills. This was a bit steeper than the rest of the walk, but it was nice to get some height. Here there are some more interesting rock faces, as the route takes a bit of a change from the standard forestry commission route. Parts also opened to give a glimpse of Gillcambon Tarn to our left and as the trees are now much farther away from the path, you get to see some of the great Lake District peaks in the distance.
Towards the end of this path, we turned off to the right where the path narrows a little and the trees come closer to the route. This was rather welcome; the late summer day was still hot and the tree coverage managed to keep things a little cooler.
Eventually, we re-joined the main path and once again it opened out to see some nice views, the sun was beating down and we made our way back across the bigger track. It’s very easy going and following this path takes you back to the very start of the walk.
It’s not got the high vista views of many Lake District walks, but worth it for the wildlife. Going for a slow evening stroll at golden hour will give you the best experience of this forest.
