Swinley Forest

What it’s like

Miles of forest cycling and an Iron Age hillfort to explore, with a science centre thrown in for wet days.

This is a forest you cycle, not just walk. There's 24km of mountain biking routes covering all levels, but the one that matters for families is the Green Trail, a flat, wide route built for young children who aren't ready for roots and berms yet. If you've got a confident older kid who wants more of a challenge, the wider trail network is there for them too.

Beyond the bikes, Caesar's Camp is the bit that sticks. It's an actual Iron Age hillfort, and there's something about scrambling round earthworks that are a couple of thousand years old that a playground just can't match. Bring a picnic and make a proper afternoon of it, since that's explicitly allowed here.

If the weather turns, or you fancy a change of pace, The Look Out Discovery Centre has over 90 hands-on science activities, which is a decent stash for a rainy morning. Entry to the forest itself is free, so the only cost you're really budgeting for is parking: £4 for up to four hours or £7 for the whole day, and it's free if you've got a Blue Badge.

There's no booking needed here, which makes it an easy one to just turn up to. Bring your own bikes or check what's available locally, since a day exploring 24km of trails plus a hillfort is not a quick in-and-out visit.

Facilities

Need to know

Best for

Families with young children on the Green Trail, plus older kids on the fuller network

Parking

£4 up to 4 hours, £7 whole day

• Parking is managed by Bracknell Forest Council, so bring change or a card for the machine
• Blue Badge holders get free parking
• The Look Out Discovery Centre is a solid backup if the weather turns
• 24km of trails means it's worth planning which route you're doing before you set off

Plan your visit

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