Ten things to do this summer at Dalby Forest
Posted on 1st August 2023 at 20:26
The school holidays have begun, and you have probably already heard the words “I’m bored” far too many times. If you’re looking for inspiration for some top family days out, then this blog will give you lots of ideas for making the most of your summer holidays. Dalby Forest is a great place to explore, get outside in the great outdoors and enjoy yourself all year round, but never more than in summer. There really is something for everyone, and endless opportunities to make memories.
You will find plenty of choices to keep the oldest to the youngest busy. Make a full day of it at Dalby Forest with our top ten list…
Cycling in the forest with Dalby Forest Cycle Hub
Dalby Forest is an amazing place to ride; It's got everything from green family trails to black-graded Mountain bike loops and a bike park area.
Our fleet of 90 hire bikes accommodates all ages and abilities; choose from hardtail and full suspension adult bikes, e-bikes. kids bikes, trailers and baby seats, as well as helmets and safety gear as required. We are based in Low Dalby, so park your car, pick up your bike, and hit the forest!
Enjoy a quiet walk through the woodland
With over 8,000 acres of forest, there's plenty of room to explore and discover stunning wildlife and nature. No need to leave your four-legged best friends at home! Dalby is a dog’s idea of paradise, with a whole world of new smells, sights and sounds to discover and enjoy. Bring them with you!
Dalby Forest are also hosting a wildflower scavenger hunt this summer – pick up your activity sheet from the visitor centre and head out to Grandfather Oak playground to spot 10 different wildflowers, each with a letter on.
Get those feet wet - paddling in the stream
Low Dalby is a great place to play and explore at Dalby Forest. There’s a shallow stream at the bottom that’s perfect for paddling in. It is also an ideal spot for having a tasty picnic, as it is located near the main playground which has a large climbing structure for all of those little monkeys.
Enjoy paddling in the stream, but remember to bring a change of shoes – just in case!
Get that adrenalin pumping with Dalby Activity Centre
Dalby Activity Centre is ideal for those who are looking for a fun-packed adventure! Ever wondered what it's like to shoot a bow and arrow or battle with lasers in the forest? Book loads of fun-filled activities at Dalby Activity Centre including paintball, airsoft, archery and even tree climbing!
Step into your kids' favourite books with the Zog and Gruffalo Trail
A Gruffalo! Why, didn't you know?
If your little ones love the books, they will love joining Zog on his forest adventure and hunting out the Gruffalo! Grab your activity pack from the visitor centre and then head deeper into the forest, both trails are close to Adderstone Field (Zog is located close by at Dixon's Hollow car park), so ideal for those little legs.
Built for the whole family, this is the tree-top experience of wobbly bridges, intricate crossings and an awesome zip-wire finale. Whether you are a thrill seeker looking for action-packed fun or simply after some quality time with friends and family, they have adventure covered. Choose from the treetop adventure for younger kids, the longer, higher treetop challenge for older kids and adults, and the segway experience for exploring the forest.
Explore the enchanted wood
Spark your child's imagination in the enchanted woods. This is a perfect stage to weave magical tales and for children to explore. Look out for fairies and tiny doors as you explore this enchanted woodland.
Your little ones will find wonder and magic around every corner, it is ideal for adventurers and those with a great imagination.
Stay up late and go stargazing
With the sun setting around 9pm in the summer, you may need to stay up late for this one… but boy, is it worth it!
Dalby Forest is a designated Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the darkest parts of the country; it is a fantastic spot to see the stars, planets, nebulae and galaxies!
Try something new with a fun session at Dalby Forest Cycle Hub
Learn new skills, have hours of fun, and make new friends; join us for some summer fun with Dalby Forest Cycle Hub.
Whether your little one is just learning to ride, or they are ripping up the trails, we have a full array of training courses. Each session is dedicated to improving cycling skills and they can all be booked online here.
Fun for all - bring a picnic and family games
Whether you pack a picnic or pick up some tasty treats from the Courtyard Cafe, alfresco dining is the style at Dalby Forest and our favourite spots are Staindale Lake and Bridestones.
We hope that we have given you some great ideas and some really fun activities over the summer and beyond. Do share your Dalby Forest adventures with us on social media.
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