In the Heart of England, a Forest-Fairytale Opens: Why It Avoids Tourist Attention.

The Enchanting Forest of England

According to The Sun: In the very heart of England lies the magnificent expanse of the National Forest, which is even larger than the Isle of Wight. But don’t be in a hurry to mark it on the tourist map — this forest remains largely unknown.

Here, amidst romantic ruins and herds of deer that roam freely, you can enjoy walks with not a single person on the horizon.

I live in the National Forest in the East Midlands and I am always amazed at how few visitors know about this forest fairy tale.

Autumn in the National Forest

It’s the perfect place to enjoy the autumn atmosphere as the trees change colors to red, gold, and brown, shedding their leaves.

The forest also hosts one of the largest pumpkin plantations in England at Halloween Farm, where they offer 100,000 pumpkins every October.

So why does this forest, stretching through Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire, remain a local secret? The fact is that it is not as known as its 'relatives', such as the Forest of Dean or the New Forest. The National Forest was established only 30 years ago and connects two ancient forests — Charnwood and Needwood, where 10 million trees were planted.

Today, it occupies an area of 200 square miles — larger than Rutland, the smallest county in England. Another 20 million trees are set to be planted by 2050.

Family Activities

This forest offers plenty of ideas for recreation — from family strolls to solitary hikes among cliffs and trees.

You can have a great time with your little ones at Conkers, just outside Ashby, the main tourist attraction of the National Forest.

There are plenty of outdoor and indoor activities: zip line courses, water attractions, splash pads, hiking trails, mini railways, playgrounds, and even an amphitheater under the tree canopies.

You can easily spend a whole day here: a family ticket costs £45 for two adults and two children. Tesco Clubcard vouchers can also be used for entry.

Another great spot is the National Adventure Farm in Burton-upon-Trent, where a pumpkin patch will soon be opening.

Exploring Nature

We love the free Bradgate Park near Leicester, where deer still roam freely on grounds that were once home to Lady Jane Grey.

My sons happily climb the rocks by the ruins of the old house and ride their bikes along the wide avenues to the park’s café and information center.

One of the big oak trees is nominated for this year's National Tree of the Year award. Bradgate is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year, though it can get quite busy during school holidays.

Another attractive spot is the Rosliston Forestry Centre near Burton-upon-Trent, where they often host events for kids and there’s a small play area for visitors.

A new play complex in the shape of a falcon has just opened here. You can book a wooden lodge for an overnight stay.

One of the places that surprised me with its family-friendly atmosphere is the National Memorial Arboretum near Lichfield. Here, trees are planted in memory of fallen servicemen and others who served our country.

This arboretum features a playground right next to the visitor center as well as a one-mile Stikeman Trail with wooden sculptures inspired by the tales of Julia Donaldson.

Entry is free, but tickets for the ground train that takes visitors across 150 acres of forest and memorials cost £19 for a family of five.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet for walks in the woods or by the water without crowds, visit smaller reserves like Sence Valley or Outwoods near Loughborough.

These less crowded trails are chosen by locals for walking their dogs or for short outings in fresh air.

Cultural Landmarks

If you're interested in combining a nature walk with a visit to a historical house, visit Calke Abbey near Derby or Stonywell near Leicester, both managed by the National Trust. There are many grounds to explore here.

The house and garden from the 1620s near Coalville offer special events in autumn and winter, including Gunpowder Day, related to one of the conspirators.

And if you are interested in industrial heritage, visit Snibston Park in Coalville, the Moira Furnace near Ashby, or the Sharp Pottery Heritage in Swadlincote.

Autumn is approaching, and you can’t go wrong visiting the National Forest.

Crunching leaves underfoot, carefree long walks, or observing wildlife preparing for winter — all this awaits you here.

Plan a trip to this fairy tale forest that is so loved by the locals.

It is also the cheapest county in Britain for a holiday with free attractions and affordable hotels.