From cool cabins to country houses- six of Britain’s best forest escapes

Our writers have embarked on a journey to uncover charming and secluded accommodations tucked away in the forests of England, Scotland, and Wales.

On a brisk October day, I found myself wandering along Sandpit Lane, near the picturesque hamlet of Thimbleby, situated at the western edge of the North York Moors. Despite the dense cloud cover and strong winds that whipped rain against my face, the cheerful melodies of goldfinches cut through the gloom as they danced along the hedgerows. As I climbed higher, the scenery shifted into a peaceful forest path, where the wind’s roar quieted, leaving only the gentle crunch of pine needles beneath my feet.

It was at that moment I noticed a doe following me quietly. I reached for my camera, but she melted away into the shadowy pines before I could snap a shot.

My adventure led me to Lark, an enchanting Scandinavian-style cabin boasting twin brass bathtubs on the terrace and a cozy log burner. Inside, the cabin’s charming pine paneling and clever layout create a warm atmosphere. Guests are welcomed with local milk, butter, eggs, biscuits, and bread. Outside, a spacious terrace awaits, complete with a barbecue area, a woodland pond, and a campfire spot. Thimbleby itself is a delightful collection of honey-colored stone houses crowned with red roofs.

Starting my walk from Lark, I encountered a quad bike and its muddy companion on a quiet road. Once back in the woods, I faced occasional moments of indecision as the paths through the old plantation had experienced clear-felling. Nevertheless, the journey rewarded me with sights, including a cluster of mushrooms—could they be chanterelles? A closer examination left me uncertain, a dilemma best avoided when foraging for fungi, so I left them be.

As the path meandered through an area where pheasants were raised, it eventually connected with the Cleveland Way, leading me to the charming village of Osmotherley. Known for its stone cottages, winding alleys, and lush grassy banks, Osmotherley boasts a rich history tied to the linen industry, which adds to its character and charm.

With several pubs, a beloved fish and chip shop, and an excellent café called the Coffee Shop—renowned for its homemade cakes—Osmotherley provides plenty of sustenance for weary walkers. My journey back home took me through serene parkland dotted with trees and rare breeds of sheep. Lark accommodates up to two adults and two children, with rates starting at £205 a night.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the National Forest—a hidden gem in Britain that few of my friends even know about. I first discovered this forest while researching a book on slow family travel, and I was captivated by its remarkable rewilding efforts. Spanning parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Staffordshire, this forest has transformed once-industrial land into 200 square miles of lush greenery, blending trees, wetlands, and grasslands. Since its creation in 1991, an astonishing 9.5 million trees have been planted, boosting forest cover from 6% to 25% with a goal to reach 33%.

Autumn, particularly during the October half-term, is a magical time to visit as the fiery foliage transforms the trees, offering hours of solitude in nature. One of my favorite places to stay is Dandelion Hideaway, located just a few miles from Market Bosworth. Here, vintage-inspired glamping awaits, where kids often lose themselves in the nearby spinney or enjoy forest school days during school breaks. For the colder months, Hastings Retreat offers cozy self-catering barns right in the heart of the forest.

The National Forest Way, a scenic 75-mile trail, connects all major attractions, and my family often bikes around Hicks Lodge, home to the National Forest Cycling Centre. Conkers is a popular family spot filled with activities like rope courses and canoeing. David Nash’s artwork, including the six Noon Columns, invites visitors to engage with the forest, while tree-planting sessions allow them to contribute to this expansive rewilding effort.

If you’re yearning for an escape to Scotland, the Cairngorms offer stunning trails and the cozy Dell of Abernethy, nestled just outside the village of Nethy Bridge. A string of lanterns lights the way to the old farmhouse originally built for a forester. Today, Polly and Ross Cameron, the third generation of their family, have transformed it into six peaceful retreats perfect for woodland exploration.

Self-catering options abound, ensuring the little Dell Grocer is stocked with homemade meals. Well-marked forest trails begin just outside the garden gate, and as autumn paints the landscape in vibrant colors, you can trek the Ryvoan Pass to discover the stunning emerald waters of An Lochan Uaine.

For hiking enthusiasts, the historic Gregynog estate in Powys is surrounded by a sprawling 303 hectares of forest. Once a lively home for the Davies sisters and their artistic circle, including figures like Gustav Holst and George Bernard Shaw, the estate is on a path to restoration and revival. Visitors can enjoy simple accommodations in the courtyard while soaking in local musical events tied to a historical arts center ethos.

Finally, my adventures led me to Suffolk, where I discovered the enchanting West Stow Pods, where magic intertwines with the woods. Each pod serves as a whimsical retreat, crafting the perfect backdrop for a fairytale experience. After a refreshing run through the forest, which boasts minimal mud and rich historical gems, I explored the nearby Anglo-Saxon village—an archaeological experience that brings centuries of history to life.

With fascinating accommodations and unique experiences scattered throughout the woodlands of the UK, there’s always something enchanting waiting to be uncovered.