The UK’s forest drives offer accessible adventures through some of Britain’s most magnificent woodland landscapes. These scenic routes wind through diverse terrains, from ancient native woodlands to vast planted forests, allowing visitors to experience nature without leaving their vehicles.
With conservative speed limits typically around 10-15 mph, these forest roads balance conservation with public enjoyment. Routes like Kielder Forest Drive, Cwmcarn Forest Drive, Three Lochs Forest Drive, Carrick Forest, and Raiders Road showcase Britain’s woodland diversity while providing opportunities to spot wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, and numerous bird species.
Most forest drives feature well-placed stopping points where travellers can pause to appreciate viewpoints, enjoy short walks, or simply breathe in the refreshing woodland air. The changing seasons transform these routes dramatically; spring’s vibrant growth, summer’s green canopies, autumn’s spectacular colours, and winter’s architectural branch structures make them worth visiting year-round.
For road trip enthusiasts, these forest drives provide perfect intervals of tranquillity between more bustling destinations. Whether covering three miles or extending beyond ten miles long, they represent thoughtful land management that balances human enjoyment with environmental protection, ensuring these precious ecosystems remain intact for future generations to enjoy during their own scenic drives through Britain’s woodland treasures.
Kielder Forest Drive
Kielder Forest, Kielder Castle, Kielder, NE48 1ER, Northern England
A Sky-High Adventure
Kielder Forest Drive offers one of England’s most spectacular forest road experiences, stretching 12 miles through the heart of Northumberland’s magnificent woodland. This scenic route connects Kielder Castle in the west to Blakehopeburnhaugh on the A68 in the east, taking travellers through some of Britain’s most remote and pristine forest landscapes.
As one of England’s highest forest drives, the route crests at over 1500 feet (450 meters) at Blakehope Nick, where visitors are rewarded with breathtaking “big sky” panoramic views across Northumberland’s dramatic landscape. The elevation provides a unique perspective on the vast forest below, a truly unforgettable highlight of any road trip through northern England.
Access to this forest drive requires a small toll payable at the machine near Kielder Castle. Visitors should note the 15mph speed limit throughout the route and be prepared for sections with loose stone surfacing. The drive is not recommended for vehicles with very low ground clearance, making it somewhat more adventurous than other forest roads in the UK.
Visitors should prepare for a journey through remote countryside without mobile phone coverage, adding to the sense of wilderness and escape. The initial portion features surfaced roads before transitioning to a gravelled forest track that winds through this magnificent woodland landscape.
Getting There
For navigation, travellers can begin at Kielder Village by following signs to Kielder Castle. After passing the castle on the right and the car park entrance on the left, continue straight ahead to the start of the drive and the toll machine. Alternatively, access is available from the A68 road near Byrness, simply follow the signs for Kielder Castle.
Key Information
Trail Length – 12 mile, two-way forest drive
Road Toll – £5 per vehicle
Cwmcarn Forest Drive
Cwmcarn Forest Dr, Newport NP11 7FA, Wales
A Reborn Woodland Treasure
After a six-year closure and significant investment from Natural Resources Wales and Caerphilly County Borough Council, Cwmcarn Forest Drive has reopened to welcome visitors once again.
The scenic drive winds through spectacular woodland landscapes, with twisting bends guiding visitors through an enchanting forest that provides a genuine sense of tranquillity away from everyday pressures. The route features seven dedicated car parks where travellers can pause to absorb breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Welsh countryside.
Families will appreciate the numerous picnic and BBQ spots along the forest road, perfect for relaxing breaks during your journey. Children can enjoy three new adventure playgrounds, sensory tunnels, and a woodland sculpture trail. The drive also accommodates visitors of all abilities with several accessible trails branching off from the main route.
The forest drive’s reopening marks a significant milestone following its 2015 closure, when 150,000 trees affected by Phytophthora Ramorum disease required removal. Today’s revitalized woodland showcases nature’s remarkable resilience, with new growth creating diverse habitats throughout this spectacular forest landscape.
For those planning scenic drives through South Wales, Cwmcarn Forest Drive offers a refreshing woodland interlude with enough amenities and activities to fill anything from a quick visit to an entire day of forest exploration.
Directions
This beloved forest road offers a perfect escape just 10 minutes from Junction 28 of the M4, making it an easily accessible natural retreat near South Wales’ urban centers.
Key Information
Trail Length – 7 miles, circular route, forest drive
Road Toll – £10 per vehicle
Three Lochs Forest Drive
Trossachs Rd, Stirling FK8 3SY, Scotland
The Heart of Scotland’s Trossachs
This spectacular 7-mile circular route winds through the heart of Scotland’s Trossachs, offering visitors access to some of the region’s most stunning landscapes. As the name suggests, the forest road takes travellers past three picturesque lochs – Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie, and Loch Achray – each with its own distinct character and charm.
The one-way drive follows quiet forest roads through magnificent woodland, providing continually changing perspectives on the breathtaking Trossachs scenery. While the views alone make this forest drive worthwhile, visitors should also watch for abundant wildlife along the route. Lucky travellers might glimpse deer moving silently among the trees, hear the chatter of woodland birds, spot red squirrels darting between branches, or even witness ospreys fishing in the crystal waters of the lochs.
This well-designed forest drive includes multiple attractions along its length, including short and easy walking trails suitable for various abilities. A particularly popular stopping point is the picnic site beside peaceful Loch Drunkie, where visitors will find accessible toilets and ample parking facilities.
Directions
For those planning their visit, the entrance to Three Lochs Forest Drive is located on the east side of The Duke’s Pass (A821), approximately 2 miles north of Aberfoyle. This convenient location makes it an ideal addition to any road trip through Scotland’s famous Trossachs region, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion.
Key Information
Trail Length – 7 miles, circular route, forest drive
Road Toll – £3 per vehicle
Carrick Forest Drive
Lock Doon Dalmellington, Ayr, KA6 7QE
Ayrshire’s Hidden Wilderness
Carrick Forest Drive offers one of Scotland’s most accessible wilderness experiences, connecting Loch Doon and Stinchar Bridge through the heart of wild south Ayrshire. This 6-mile two-way forest road provides travellers with exceptional access to some of Ayrshire’s most spectacular mountain scenery without requiring extensive hiking or off-road capability.
The route features several quiet car parks and picnic areas strategically positioned to showcase fantastic views of the Galloway Hills. Families particularly appreciate the adventure playground and picnic area beside picturesque Loch Riecawr, making it a perfect stopping point during this scenic journey.
History enthusiasts should watch for the atmospheric ruins of Loch Doon Castle near the eastern entrance to the forest drive. This remarkable structure, originally built around 1300 on an island in the loch, was carefully relocated to its current position in the 1930s when Loch Doon became part of a hydro-electric scheme that raised water levels.
Directions
For those planning a visit, the eastern entrance begins just south of Loch Doon Castle, accessible from the A713 just south of Dalmellington by following signs for ‘Carrick Forest Drive’ for approximately 5 miles. The western entrance starts at Stinchar Bridge, a small hamlet on the unclassified road connecting Straiton (7 miles north) and Bargrennan (14 miles south).
Key Information
Trail Length – 6 miles, two-way forest drive
Road Toll – £3 per vehicle
Raiders’ Road Forest Drive
Raiders Road, Castle Douglas, DG7 3SQ, Scotland
Literary Landscapes of Galloway
Raiders Road Forest Drive offers one of the finest ways to experience Galloway Forest Park from the comfort of your vehicle. This memorable 10-mile two-way forest road follows the course of an ancient drove route famously featured in S.R. Crockett’s romance novel “The Raiders,” adding literary significance to its natural splendour.
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of creatures visible throughout the journey. The surrounding forest hosts both red and roe deer grazing among the trees, while keen-eyed visitors might spot buzzards, sparrowhawks, red kites, and ravens soaring overhead. The woodland canopy shelters crossbills and siskins feeding on tree cones throughout the seasons.
Open to vehicles between April and October for a small fee, the drive remains accessible year-round for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders seeking more immersive forest experiences. This seasonal forest road provides excellent accessibility to some of Galloway’s most spectacular landscapes.
Several outstanding stopping points punctuate the route. The Otter Pool car park, located approximately halfway along the drive, offers a perfect riverside picnic spot with grassy banks ideal for families. Alternatively, Stroan Loch provides peaceful waterside views, featuring an old viaduct and access to the scenic but challenging Buzzard Trail.
Raiders Road forms part of the Galloway Kite Trail during summer months, with Bennan Viewpoint car park near Mossdale offering particularly good opportunities for spotting these magnificent birds of prey. Additionally, the forest drive sits within the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional location for stargazing on clear nights—no telescope required to appreciate the brilliantly visible constellations.
Directions
Raiders Road Forest Drive can be accessed from two main points: the western entrance at Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre just off the A712, or the eastern entrance near Mossdale village and New Galloway on the A762. Look for clear signage directing you to “Raiders Road Forest Drive” from either approach, with the western entrance being particularly well-marked from the popular Clatteringshaws Loch viewpoint.
Key Information
Trail Length – 10 miles, two-way forest drive
Road Toll – £3 per vehicle
Planning Your Forest Drive Road Trip
Embarking on a forest drive is one of the most scenic and soul-soothing ways to explore the UK’s natural beauty. Whether you’re winding through towering pines, passing tranquil lakes, or spotting wildlife from your window, a little planning can make your road trip smooth, safe, and memorable. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before you hit the road.
Fuel Up or Charge Up – Before setting off, make sure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel or your electric vehicle is fully charged. Many forest routes pass through remote areas where petrol stations or charging points are few and far between. It’s better to top up beforehand than to risk running low deep in the countryside.
Pack a Picnic and Snacks – One of the joys of a forest drive is stopping at a peaceful spot for a bite to eat. Pack a picnic, bring some snacks, and don’t forget plenty of water. Many forest trails have designated picnic areas or viewpoints that make perfect stop-off spots. It’s also a great way to support a slow, mindful journey, no rushing, just relaxing.
Keep Britain Tidy – Respect the natural beauty you’re there to enjoy. Bring along a bin bag and take all your rubbish home with you. Even biodegradable items like fruit peel can harm local ecosystems. Let’s keep these woodlands pristine for future generations.
Check Opening Times – Before setting your itinerary, check whether your chosen forest drive is open. Many routes are seasonal and may be closed over winter months or due to forestry work.
Be Ready for Payment – Some forest drives or car parks may require a small entry or parking fee. Be prepared with a few coins, or better yet, use a contactless card or the RingGo app, which is commonly accepted for parking in many UK woodland areas. It’s a small contribution that goes a long way in supporting forest maintenance and conservation.
This information was accurate at the time of writing.