Sherwood Pines Half - Term Fun

Half-term is here, and if you’re looking for the perfect way to keep the kids entertained without spending a fortune, why not head to your local Forestry England forest? Swap screens for streams and enjoy the fresh air, freedom, and fun that only the forest can offer.

From meeting the Gruffalo to flinging frisbees through the trees, these outdoor activities are perfect for making memories without breaking the bank. Here are our top picks for a forest-filled half term adventure.

1. Stick Man Family Adventure Trails

Step into the world of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved story with the Stick Man trail. Children can follow Stick Man’s journey back to the family tree through a magical woodland walk filled with activities. Along the route, you’ll find interactive stations where kids can build with sticks, learn about wildlife, and collect stamps in their very own passport.

The activity pack includes a make-your-own Stick Man kit and provides hours of fun, making it a great value experience.

Cost: £4 per activity pack. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

2. Forest Walkies with Wallace and Gromit

Dog lovers, this one’s for you. Join Wallace and Gromit for the ultimate forest walkies, complete with challenges and a trail full of puzzles. Use the free OS Maps app to follow the route and solve crossword clues hidden along the way.

Pick up a Forest Walkies pack to add even more fun, with games, tips, and activities the whole family (including your four-legged friends) will enjoy.

Cost: Free app. £5 per pack. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

3. Go for a Family Bike Ride

Sherwood Pines is a fantastic place for a two-wheeled adventure. With safe cycling trails, beginner mountain bike routes, and skills areas, it’s a great way to get your kids confident on their bikes while soaking up the spring sunshine.

Cost: Free if you bring your own bikes. Bike hire and parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

4. Try Disc Golf

Disc golf is a brilliant way to get teens and tweens off their screens and into the great outdoors. The game is simple: throw frisbee-style discs at fixed targets, and the player who finishes the course with the fewest throws wins.

It’s fun, energetic, and offers a great way to explore the forest together.

Cost: £3.50 per disc or £12 for 4 discs. Parking charges may apply. Members pay £3 per disc or £10 for 4 discs.

5. Meet the Gruffalo and Friends

Bring a beloved story to life by hunting for Gruffalo sculptures hidden in the woods. Children can spot Mouse, Owl, Fox, Snake, and the Gruffalo himself as they wander through the trees.

It’s a simple, screen-free activity that adds a little magic to a family day out.

Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

6. Explore a Forest Walking Trail

Whether it’s a gentle stroll with the buggy or a longer hike with older kids, Sherwood Pines has a walking route to suit every family. With wide-open spaces, shady woodland paths, and picnic-perfect spots, it’s a peaceful and fun way to spend time together.

Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

7. Wildlife Spotting Adventures

Turn an ordinary walk into a wildlife safari by downloading Forestry England’s free spotter sheet. From insects and birds to deer and foxes, there’s a world of forest creatures waiting to be discovered.

This activity costs nothing, encourages curiosity, and creates lasting memories.

Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

8. Play in the Forest

Scramble, swing, slide and climb your way through the play areas at Sherwood Pines. The new King John’s Castle play area and natural forest zones are designed with all abilities in mind, so everyone can join in the fun.

Cost: Free. Parking charges may apply. Free parking for members.

Ready to head out?

With adventure trails, off-road cycling, storybook sculptures, and play zones galore, a trip to the forest is the perfect half-term day out. Affordable, active, and full of fresh air, it’s a brilliant way to spend time together. So bring the whole familt this half term and explore the beautiful Sherwood Pines for yourself.

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blog post curated by Georgina Richardson - Visit Nottingham Intern