Forestry England’s ultimate list of low-cost, fun activities to do this autumn half-term in Cumbria

For getting out and about with the kids, the seasons don’t get much better than autumn. From conker collecting to jumping in leaf piles, there are so many brilliant, low-cost autumnal activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Whether you're looking to celebrate The Gruffalo on his birthday or enjoy a family-friendly walk through the autumn leaves, Forestry England has plenty of activities to keep all ages entertained this half-term. Best of all, many of the activities are free, so you can have a fun-filled day without breaking the bank!

Discover nature on a family-friendly evening walk at Forestry England Whinlatter and Grizedale

Join our knowledgeable rangers for a magical guided evening walk through the forest.

Listen out for owls, learn about the wildlife in the forest and experience the wonders of the night sky, ending with a warming hot chocolate!

Dates: Whinlatter Tuesday 29 October, 6pm

Grizedale Monday 28 and Wednesday 30 October, 6pm

Cost: £7 adults, £5 children, parking charges apply. 10% discount and free parking for members. Booking essential, visit our website for further information.

Explore the Gruffalo sculpture trail at Forestry England Whinlatter

Set off on a memorable day out and venture into the deep dark wood with your family to find the Gruffalo character and his friends from Julia Donaldson’s classic story. Each sculpture has been hand-carved and placed in different positions. Can you find them all?

Your little ones will love meeting Mouse, Owl, Fox, Snake and Squirrel as well as the Gruffalo and the Gruffalo's child!

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Celebrate the Gruffalo’s 25^th birthday trail at Forestry England Whinlatter and Grizedale

Celebrate the beloved Gruffalo's 25th birthday this autumn with a big party trail in the forest! Families can work together to find missing party items while enjoying fun games along the trail and learning how plants and animals care for each other. This trail is a delightful and educational experience for Gruffalo fans of all ages.

Cost: £4 per Gruffalo trail pack plus parking charges. Free parking for members.

5. Stomp through leaves at Forestry England Whinlatter and Grizedale

In autumn deciduous trees lose their leaves, leaving a carpet of red, yellow and orange leaves spread across the forest. On your family walk, try gathering as many fallen leaves as you can, and have a competition to see who can build the tallest pile. Or just take the opportunity to roll, jump and play in them!

Remember to bring a picnic. It might not be as warm as the summer, but autumn can be the perfect time for a picturesque family lunch. Wrap up warm, dust off your picnic blanket and pack all your favourites into your picnic basket, you could even try including something warm, like soup in a flask!

Here is Forestry England’s ultimate guide of autumn walks to enjoy.

Cost: Free, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Reconnect with nature on a wellbeing trail at Forestry England Whinlatter and Wild Ennerdale

Autumn is a fantastic time to look, listen and reflect on the things all around you. Did you know that simply taking time to be mindful can be good for children's health and happiness?

During half-term, spend some quality time away from screens with your family and connect with nature on one of Forestry England’s wellbeing trails.

In addition to the wellbeing trails, families can also give forest bathing a go. Simply find a quiet spot where your kids feel safe and relaxed and start practicing the art of forest bathing with Forestry England’s downloadable activity sheets.

Cost: Entrance free, parkingcharges may apply. Free parking for members.

Enjoy the Spook-O spooky night time trail at Forestry England Whinlatter

West Cumberland Orienteering Club is excited to bring back Spook-O for 2024! This fun, family-friendly event features an easy-to-follow trail through the forest. Don’t forget to bring a good torch – you never know what spooky surprises might be waiting around the corner! Fancy dress is encouraged, so come along and get into the Halloween spirit!

Cost: £3 per person, parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.