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Salcey Forest - Hartwell

The Royal Forest of Salcey has been standing splendid and strong for hundreds of years and earned its royal label when it was the medieval hunting forest favoured by kings and queens. Now transformed into one of Northamptonshire’s nature hotspots, Salcey’s 1250 acres is home to both a rich and diverse wildlife and some truly ancient woodbanks (some of its old oaks, or ‘druids’, are thought to be over 500 years old).

The variety of well-marked paths on offer help you make the most of your time here, whether by foot, bicycle or - in good medieval tradition- horseback. There is a 5-mile family friendly cycle track but of the three suggested walking trails, your best bet is the Elephant Walk, so named after the Elephant Pond which it passes by and which was used by elephants who worked in the forest during WW2. Halfway along this trail is the Tree Top Way (also pushchair friendly except for the last 5m), an imposing wooden structure that gradually takes you from the forest floor to the tree canopy and an awe-inspiring view.

Salcey Forest really is a great place to let children stretch both their wings and their imaginations - didn’t they hear the King of England just thunder past on his trusty steed?

Adventure Details

• Opening times: The forest cafe is open from 10:00 - 17:00 daily.
• Admission prices: Free entry but car parking charges apply. £2 per day.