Forge Valley Woods Walk

If you are after a relaxing outdoor adventure that will get the entire family on the trails for some good exercise and the chance to spot local wildlife, then the Forge Valley Woods Walk is a great way to do so. The route features very little elevation gain and there are lengthy stretches of boardwalk throughout, making navigation a breeze and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature.

Before setting out from the car park, take a few minutes to check out the information board that provides an insight into the landscape and species of animals that are native to the area. From here, you will cross the bridge over the River Derwent and keep left at the junction, utilizing the boardwalk to make your way south through the forested gorge.

Keeping an eye out for fish and otters in the river, you will eventually reach the southernmost point of the walk at a kissing gate on the edge of a field. Turn back here and retrace your steps, keeping left at the junction near the bridge in order to explore the northern portion of the route. Here, you will exit the tree cover into a meadow and reach a stile. Turning back to make your way to the bridge crossing, keep an eye out for the plentiful birds in the area, entering once again into the tree cover on the return leg of the walk.