Visiting a Forest or Woodland

There are a few things you may need to do prior to visiting a forest. You may need to contact the land owner if you plan to take a large group of people into the forest. For example: Delamere Forest in Cheshire is managed by Forestry Commission England. You will need to inform the forest office of your planned visit so they can provide you with any specific information including any notice of forestry work or evacuation procedures etc. Other common land owners in England, Scotland and Wales are: Forestry Commission England Forestry Commission Scotland ( Coimisean na Coilltearachd Alba ) Forestry Commission Wales ( Comisiwn Coedwigaeth Cymru ) National Trust Woodland Trust The Wildlife Trusts Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Crown Estates Lowther Estates Local Council's Private Land Owners (information obtained from the Council) RISK ASSESSMENT Do you need to write a Risk Assessment for your visit? FIRST AID It is always a good idea to take a small first aid kit with you. You can buy one of these from our Forest Explorers Shop COMMUNICATIONS What is the mobile reception like in the area you wish visit? This could also be added to your risk assessment. Who has got a phone? Does it have enough battery to last the day? Do you have the relevant contact numbers? PLAN YOUR ROUTE It is always best to stick to the main footpaths at all times. OS Maps give accurate information on the footpaths, roads and any hills in the area you may want to avoid. Phone boxes are shown on these maps. Forest Visitor Centres usually stock a wide variety of maps and guides. PREPARE FOR THE WEATHER Prepare for all weathers, always check the weather forecast before setting off. Sun cream to waterproofs, don't forget them! BE SEEN BE SAFE Hi-vis vests are the perfect way to be seen when out and about. These can be purchased from our Forest Explorers Shop. You may want to include this in your risk assessment. Remember that the nights are drawing in as the days go by so you may need to take a torch (make sure it has lots of battery life!) FOOD / DRINK / TOILETS etc.. Not all forests have toilet facilities so this is a good thing to check before planning your visit. Some forests have visitor centres which include a cafe, toilets & a forest gift shop. Some forests also have a bike hire, play areas and a Go Ape Tree Top Adventure ( Age and height restrictions apply, see GoApe.co.uk for more information )