Grizedale Forest, Sculpture trail and commercial forest in Westmorland and Furness, England.
Grizedale Forest is a large commercial forest in Westmorland and Furness with extensive walking paths, cycling trails, and scattered artworks throughout. The landscape includes open meadows, dense woodland, and artist installations positioned at different locations.
The estate was purchased by Forestry England in 1937, and Grizedale Hall on the grounds served as a prisoner of war camp during World War II. The transformation into the current forest and art destination happened gradually over the following decades.
The art collection here started in 1977 when local artists began placing works made from natural materials throughout the woodland. Walking these paths today, you encounter these sculptures as surprises that blend with the trees.
The forest is open from dawn to dusk daily, with a visitor center and parking available for guests. It is best to wear sturdy shoes and allow plenty of time to explore the various paths and artwork locations.
The forest operates on a harvest and replanting cycle where trees are cut at 45 to 70 years old and replaced with new seedlings. This rhythm shapes the forest's changing structure over longer periods.
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