The Best Forest Holiday Destinations in the UK
There's something magical about escaping to the British countryside, where ancient forests whisper tales of yesteryear and sunlight dapples through leafy canopies. The UK boasts some of Europe's most enchanting woodland retreats, perfect for those seeking to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort and luxury.
At Macdonald Hotels, we're proud to offer exceptional accommodation in some of Britain's most spectacular forest locations. Whether you're drawn to wildlife watching, invigorating hikes, or simply the restorative calm of being surrounded by trees, we've handpicked five magnificent destinations for your perfect forest holiday.
The New Forest
The New Forest National Park in Hampshire offers a truly unique woodland experience. Spanning over 30,000 hectares of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and coastal areas, it was voted the No. 1 National Park in Europe in the 2022 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards—and for good reason.
This magical landscape transforms with the seasons: springtime carpets of vibrant flowers, summer's sun-dappled glades, autumn's golden canopies, and winter's frost-kissed trails. Perhaps most enchanting are the free-roaming ponies, donkeys, cattle, deer, and pigs that wander the landscape, creating delightful encounters around every corner.
What to do:
- Explore over 30,000 hectares of open access countryside on foot, with trails suitable for all abilities
- Cycle along 100+ miles of way-marked tracks, perfect for family adventures
- Discover hidden beaches like Lepe and Barton on Sea for paddleboarding and coastal relaxation
- Visit family-friendly attractions including Paultons Park (home to Peppa Pig World) and Exbury Gardens
- Immerse yourself in history at Hurst Castle or the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu
Don't miss: The New Forest Walking Festival 2025 offers guided walks and activities throughout the park—check the official website for dates and booking information.
Where to stay: Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel & Resort sits in magnificent grounds on the stunning Solent Coast near Lymington. With 23 acres of private grounds, this 4-star retreat offers luxurious rooms, self-catering options, and outstanding leisure facilities including indoor and outdoor pools and a rejuvenating spa.
Northumberland
Northumberland offers a forest holiday experience on a grand scale. Kielder Forest, England's largest forest at over 250 square miles, creates a breath-taking landscape of dense pine forests, rolling hills, and serene lakes.
What truly sets Northumberland apart is its night sky. As an International Dark Sky Park—one of the darkest in Europe—the forest offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, where thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and even the Northern Lights can sometimes be spotted.
What to do:
- Trek through scenic trails like Hareshaw Linn Waterfall (4.8km) or the more challenging Simonside Hills (7.1 miles)
- Cycle winding routes through Kielder Forest, suitable for all abilities
- Enjoy water sports on Kielder Water, Northern Europe's largest man-made lake
- Visit nature hides to spot red squirrels, roe deer, and majestic ospreys
- Experience the wonders of the night sky at Kielder Observatory
Something special: Nature's resilience is on display as the famous Sycamore Gap tree, tragically felled in 2023, is now showing signs of regrowth—a poignant symbol of renewal worth visiting.
Where to stay: Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club is set within 450 acres of private grounds. This magnificent Georgian country house offers 50 individually designed bedrooms, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a luxurious spa—the perfect retreat after a day exploring the forest.
Aviemore
Nestled in the northwest corner of the Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a highland paradise for forest enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense Caledonian pine forests, towering mountains, and sparkling lochs, this compact town offers easy access to some of Scotland's most spectacular landscapes.
Loch an Eilein at Rothiemurchus, voted Britain's best picnic spot, epitomises the area's charm with its serene waters, ancient woodland, red squirrels, and the haunting ruins of a 13th-century island castle.
What to do:
- Explore the ancient Caledonian pine forest around Loch an Eilein
- Try exhilarating outdoor activities at Rothiemurchus Estate, including archery, wildlife photography, and quad biking
- Enjoy water sports on Loch Morlich, a stunning forest-fringed lake
- Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre to meet Britain's only free-ranging herd
- Experience mountain activities at Cairngorm Mountain, including hiking and mountain biking
Where to stay: Macdonald Aviemore Resort offers three magnificent 4-star hotels and spacious woodland lodges nestled among ancient Caledonian pines. With breathtaking views and The View Restaurant and Bar serving locally-sourced cuisine, it's the perfect highland retreat.
Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders region offers a gentler but no less enchanting forest experience. Spanning 1,800 square miles south of Edinburgh, this often-overlooked gem combines rolling hills, lush forests, and the iconic River Tweed.
Glentress Forest, part of the renowned 7Stanes mountain biking network, provides world-class trails for cyclists, while the Berwickshire Coast offers opportunities to spot seals and dolphins.
What to do:
- Walk or hike along scenic trails
- Experience world-class mountain biking at Glentress Forest
- Visit historic sites like Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott
- Enjoy the tranquillity of fishing on the River Tweed
- Immerse yourself in local culture at Common Ridings festivals
Where to stay: Macdonald Cardrona Hotel is set in 200 stunning acres alongside the River Tweed near Peebles. With 99 spacious rooms, an 18-hole golf course, and the award-winning Renwicks Restaurant, it's perfectly positioned for exploring the region, just 40 minutes from Edinburgh.
Aberfoyle
Aberfoyle, the charming 'Gateway to the Trossachs', is nestled within the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. With almost 50,000 acres of woodland, proximity to beautiful lochs, and stunning Victorian architecture, this holiday village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local amenities.
The area's diverse landscape includes hidden waterfalls, mystical forest trails, and panoramic viewpoints across Loch Ard and Loch Lomond.
What to do:
- Follow the enchanting Waterfall Trail (1.5 miles) or Doon Hill walk, steeped in fairy folklore
- Cycle along National Cycle Network Route 7, offering spectacular forest views
- Try kayaking, canoeing, or fishing on Loch Ard
- Experience the thrill of Go Ape Aberfoyle's zip-lines and high ropes course
- Spot wildlife including ospreys, red squirrels, and pine martens
Exciting news: Mark your calendars for the inaugural Aberfoyle Festival of Trail Running on October 11, 2025. With half marathon and ultra marathon options through stunning forest tracks and views of Ben Lomond, it's perfect for those seeking an active forest holiday.
Where to stay: Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Resort in nearby Kinlochard offers 4-star self-catering accommodation with breathtaking loch and mountain views. With excellent leisure facilities including an indoor pool and spa treatments, it's the ideal base for exploring the forest park.
