Looking for the perfect spots to visit the Gruffalo in England’s stunning woods and forests? Look no further! In this post, we’ll explore Forestry England’s top Gruffalo locations, with fun activities for Gruffalo spotters to find their favourite characters. Whether you’re a fan of Julia Donaldson’s beloved children’s book or simply seeking a memorable family adventure, these magical locations will enchant both young and old alike. So grab your picnic basket and get ready for a day of forest-filled fun!

We have put the opening hours on for all parks; however, check for changes and note that all parks are closed on Christmas Day, some on Boxing Day, but do check before your journey. 

Who is the Gruffalo 

The Gruffalo is a fictional character Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler created in this beloved children’s book “The Gruffalo.” He is a fearsome creature with a mixture of features from various animals, including a buffalo’s horns, a bear’s legs, and the walrus’s tusks. He is known for his fearsome appearance and cunning nature as he encounters the Fox, Mouse, Owl, and snake. But ultimately, it proves no match for a clever little mouse.

Where You Can Find The Gruffalo Sculptures in England’s Woods and Forests in 2023

1. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest Gruffalo Trail- Kent

Discover the magic of the Gruffalo at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent. Follow the Gruffalo Trail, a 3.5km journey featuring six impressive wooden sculptures of your favourite characters. 

As you stroll through the picturesque forest, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Julia Donaldson’s beloved book. After your adventure, take advantage of the play areas, Go Ape, bike shop, and bike hire facilities. And don’t forget to sit back and enjoy a well-deserved picnic surrounded by the beauty of Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. It’s a day of forest fun that the entire family will cherish.

• Where to find it: Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst, TN17 2SJ
• Opening times: Every day from 8 am
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Accessible play trail, Dogs Allowed, Go Ape,  Bike Hire, and toilets.

2. Wyre Forest Gruffalo Trail– Worcester

Set aside a day for a leisurely family walk. Follow the Buzzard trail, Wyre Forest’s longest walking trail at 3 miles, leading you through mixed woodland and forest pools to the arboretum, making the perfect spot for a picnic. If you venture into the deep, dark wood, you may even bump into the Gruffalo or the Gruffalo’s Child sculptures.

• Where to find: Wyre Forest, Callow Hill, Bewdley, DY14 9XQ
• Opening times: From 8 am daily
• Facilities available: Parking, Easy Access Trail, Cafe, Play areas, Bike Hire, Dogs Allowed and Dog Wash, Go Ape & Toilets.

3. Alice Holt Gruffalo Trail – Surrey

Gruffalo Trail Alice Holt –Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Gruffalo at Alice Holt Forest in Surrey. Follow the Gruffalo Trail, a 2.7km long adventure, where you’ll encounter large wooden sculptures of all the beloved Gruffalo characters.

 As you explore, enjoy the beautiful picnic areas scattered throughout the forest and indulge in a tasty treat. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy with play areas, Go Ape, and a Timberline Play Trail. Finish your visit with a peaceful stroll or bike ride through the remote parts of the forest, creating lasting memories in this magical setting.

• Where to find it: Alice Holt Forest, Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS (HAMPSHIRE).
• Opening times: From 8 am daily.
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Play areas, Accessible Play Trail, Go Ape, Toilets, Accessible toilet, Dogs Welcome and Dog Wash.

4. Hamsterley Forest Gruffalo Sculptures – County Durham

Hamsterley Forest is one of the best places to enjoy alfresco dining with your family. Build an appetite by enjoying the fun family play trail, set along a buggy-friendly path, straddling both sides of the bubbling beck. After enjoying all the ingredients of a great adventure, including forts, boats, mud, and water, settle down along the river to enjoy your picnic and a paddle.

• Where to find it: Hamsterley Forest, Bedburn, Hamsterley, DL13 3NL
• Opening times: From 9 am daily.
• Facilities: Parking, Cafe, Play areas, Picnic area, Dogs allowed and Toilets.

5. Fineshade Wood – Northamptonshire

At Fineshade Wood in Northamptonshire, you can embark on a Gruffalo adventure in a beautiful woodland setting. While we can’t promise you’ll see all the characters from The Gruffalo, you might spot their elusive cousins! 

Enjoy the Smelter’s trail, a short, circular, family-friendly walk, and watch for red kites, nightingales, or even dormice and newts. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, settle down in one of the lovely picnic areas located next to the main play areas for a delightful family picnic. Fineshade Wood is truly the perfect destination for a memorable day out with your loved ones.

• Where to find it: Fineshade Wood, Top Lodge, Fineshade, Near Corby, NN17 3BB
• Opening times: From 9.30 am daily, 9.00 am weekends
• Facilities: Parking, Cafe, Play areas, Picnic area, Bike Hire, & Dogs allowed Toilets.

6. Moors Valley Gruffalo Trail, Dorset

Embark on a Gruffalo adventure at Moors Valley in Ashley Heath, Dorset. Follow the 2km long Gruffalo Trail and encounter the wooden carved sculptures of the Gruffalo and the Gruffalo’s Child. 

Explore the picturesque surroundings, let your imagination roam, and bring the beloved characters to life. After your woodland expedition, extend the fun by enjoying the play areas, taking a ride on the steam train, or testing your skills on the Go Ape course. With a cafe on-site, you can refuel before or after your picnic and make lasting memories in this magical destination.

• Where to find it: Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Nr Ringwood, BH24 2ET
• Opening times: From 8 am daily
• Facilities: Parking, Cafe, Play areas, Steam Railway, Dogs Allowed, Segways, Go Ape, Cycle TRaols & Toilets.

7. Wendover Woods Gruffalo Trail, Buckinghamshire

Experience the wonder of the Gruffalo Trail at Wendover Woods, located in Wendover, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. The trail itself is about 2km long and features pictures of the characters and a large wooden Gruffalo sculpture. 

The real adventure lies in the beautiful surroundings and opportunities for family fun. Explore the vast woodland, enjoy the play area, and embark on the 1-mile all-ability play trail loop. Don’t forget to pack your picnic and make the most available picnic spots. With a café, toilets, and various facilities, Wendover Woods is the perfect destination for a memorable day out with your loved ones.

• Where to find it: Wendover Woods, Wendover, Aylesbury, HP22 5NQ
• Opening times: 6 March to 1 October 2023, 8 am to 7 pm
• 2 October 2023 to 29 February 2024, 8 am to 5 pm
• Facilities: Parking, Cafe, BBQ, Accessible Playtrail, Dogs Allowed, Parking, Play area, Go Ape, and toilets.

8. Gruffalo Trail Delamere Forest, Cheshire

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Gruffalo at Delamere Forest in Cheshire. The Gruffalo Trail at Delamere Forest only features a large wooden Gruffalo sculpture and pictures of the characters along the 3km long trail.

It’s still a delightful experience for fans of the book. Take a leisurely walk through this beautiful forest, surrounded by towering trees and serene nature. After your adventure, you can enjoy the facilities at Delamere Forest, including the Go Ape treetop adventure course, bike shop and hire, and refuel at the onsite café. So put on your walking shoes and bring your picnic basket for a forest adventure that both children and adults will enjoy.

• Where to find it: Delamere Forest, Linmere, Delamere, Northwich, SW8 2HZ
• Opening times: From 8 am daily.
• Facilities onsite: Parking, Cafe, Bike Hire, Go Ape, Segway, and toilets.

9. Cannock Chase Gruffalo Trail, Staffordshire

Discover the magic of the Gruffalo at Cannock Chase Forest in Staffordshire. The Gruffalo Trail at Cannock Chase only features a large wooden Gruffalo sculpture and pictures of the characters along the 1.5km long trail. 

Enjoy the captivating beauty of Cannock Chase Forest as you leisurely stroll through its picturesque trails. After your adventure, indulge in the amenities available, including play areas, the Go Ape treetop adventure, bike shop and hire facilities, and the onsite café for a well-deserved break. So pack your picnic and prepare for a day filled with forest-filled fun at Cannock Chase.

• Where to find it: Cannock Chase Forest, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ
• Opening times: From 7.30 am daily
• Facilities onsite: Parking, Cafe, Easy Access Trail, Dogs Allowed, Go Ape Play areas, Bike Hire & Toilets.

10. Dalby Forest – Yorkshire

The Adderstone Field play area at Dalby Forest is a great place for kids to run about, play games and enjoy the adventure playground. Pack a bag with your picnic and enjoy the space to have fun and games. From here, you can easily venture into the woods, where you may bump into the Gruffalo and Gruffalo’s child sculptures.

• Where to find it: Dalby Forest, Dalby Visitor Centre, Low Dalby, Thornton-Le-Dale, YO18 7LT
• Opening times: From 8 am daily
• Facilities: Parking, Cafe, Play area, Bike Hire, Go Ape, and toilets.

11. Gruffalo Sculpture at Haldon Forest Park, Exeter

Visit Haldon Forest Park in Exeter and have a magical encounter with the Gruffalo himself. Explore the park and follow the trail to discover the impressive Gruffalo sculpture in the enchanting woodland. 

Let your imagination run wild as you immerse yourself in the world of Julia Donaldson’s beloved characters. After your adventure, take advantage of the park’s amenities, such as the café, play areas, and walking trails, making it the perfect destination for a memorable day out with your loved ones. Don’t forget to bring your picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Haldon Forest Park.

• Where to find it: Haldon Forest Park, Bullers Hill, Kennford, Exeter, EX6 7XR
• Opening Times: Daily from 7 am
• Facilities: Cafe, Cycle Hire, Dogs Allowed, Plat Area, Picnic Area, Toilets

12. Gruffalo Sculptures at High Lodge, Norfolk

Head over to High Lodge in Thetford Forest, Norfolk, for an unforgettable experience with the Gruffalo sculptures. Stroll through the forest and spot the impressive wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo and his friends along the 3km trail. 

Let your imagination roam as you explore the picturesque surroundings and bring the beloved characters to life. High Lodge is the perfect destination for a family day out with amenities such as a café, play area, and picnic spots. 

• Where to find it: High Lodge, Thetford Forest, Brandon, IP27 0AF
• Opening Times: Every day from 9 am
• Facilities onsite: Cafe, BBQ, Accessible toilet, Cycle hire, Dogs allowed, Easy access trail, Picnic area, Play Area, Toilets, Mobility Scooter hire

13. Gruffalo Sculptures at Cardinham Woods, Cornwall

Discover the world of the Gruffalo at Cardinham Woods in Cornwall. Follow the trail through the woods and encounter the impressive wooden sculptures of Gruffalo and his companions.

 Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere as you explore the picturesque surroundings and bring the beloved characters to life. After your adventure, take a break and enjoy the amenities at Cardinham Woods, including a café, picnic area, and play area. It’s the perfect destination for a family day out filled with forest fun and Gruffalo excitement.

• Where to find it: Cardinham Woods, Cardinham, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30 4AL
• Opening times: Every day from 8 am
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Picnic area, Dogs allowed, Play area, Toilets

14. Gruffalo Sculptures at Whinlatter, Cumbria

Embark on an exciting Gruffalo adventure at Whinlatter Forest in Cumbria. Follow the trail through the forest and discover the captivating wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo and his friends. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you explore the beautiful surroundings and bring the beloved characters to life. After your adventure, make use of the facilities at Whinlatter Forest, including a café, picnic area, and play area. It’s the perfect destination for a memorable family day out, filled with forest-filled fun and Gruffalo magic.

• Where to find it: Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW
• Opening times: Every day from 9 am
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Dogs allowed, Cycle Hire, Picnic area, Play area, Toilets.

15. Gruffalo Sculptures at Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire

Embark on a magical Gruffalo adventure at Sherwood Pines in Nottinghamshire. Follow the trail through the enchanting forest and discover the impressive wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo and his companions. 

Immerse yourself in the whimsical atmosphere as you bring the beloved characters to life. After your adventure, take a break and enjoy the amenities at Sherwood Pines, including a café, picnic area, and play area. It’s the perfect destination for family fun and Gruffalo excitement.

• Where to find it: Sherwood Pines, Edwinstowe, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG21 9JH
• Opening times: Every day from 8 am
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Easy Access Trail, Dogs Allowed, Picnic area, Play area, Toilets

16. Gruffalo Sculptures at Kielder Castle,  Northumberland

Immerse yourself in the magical world of the Gruffalo at Kielder Castle in Northumberland. Follow the trail through the enchanting forest and discover the stunning wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo and his companions. Let your imagination run wild as you bring the beloved characters to life. After your adventure, take a moment to relax and enjoy the amenities at Kielder Castle, including a café, picnic area, and play area. It’s the perfect destination for a day filled with family fun and Gruffalo excitement.

• Where to find it: Kielder Castle, Kielder, Northumberland, NE48 1ER
• Opening times: Every day from 9 am
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe (currently closed), Picnic area, Dogs Allowed, Easy Access Trail, Play area, Toilets

17. Gruffalo Sculptures at Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire

Discover the enchanting Gruffalo sculptures at Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire. Nestled within the breathtaking arboretum, these impressive wooden sculptures bring the beloved characters to life. Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of the Gruffalo as you explore the picturesque surroundings.

• Where to find it: Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS
• Opening times: From 9 am daily 
• Facilities available: Parking, Cafe, Picnic area, Toilets, Gift shop, Guided walks, Education centre, Children’s play area, Events and activities