The Wilderness Grove Forest School
BEST FOR
Ages 1+
SETTING
Outdoors
WHERE
Norwich
What it’s like
Woodland sessions where kids light fires, build dens and climb trees, rain or shine, most weekdays near Norwich.
This is proper outdoor stuff, not a nature trail with a laminated sign. Kids get stuck into den building, fire lighting, knife skills and knot tying, alongside bug hunting, mud kitchen mess and swinging from the trees. There's storytelling and nature art too if the group needs a slower moment, but the tool work and fire craft are clearly the bit that'll stick in a child's memory.
It runs weekdays, 10am to 5pm, and you'll need to book ahead as there's no just turning up. They ask that children are steady on their feet before starting, which makes sense once you picture the terrain, roots, logs and uneven ground are part of the point. There's no minimum age given beyond that, so it's really a judgement call based on how confidently your child gets about.
Sessions go ahead in rain and snow, and only stop for high winds, thunderstorms or proper cold snaps, which is refreshingly honest for an outdoor programme. There's a composting toilet and handwashing on site, but no running water or electricity. Parking is tight at just 12 spaces, and getting there by public transport is a bit of a faff, so a car is the sensible plan.
Before your child's first session you'll need to fill in consent and information forms online, and read through the handbook covering how the woodland works. Updates during term come through an app, email or phone.
Facilities
Need to know
- Best for
- Steady-on-their-feet toddlers up to older kids keen on fire and tools
- Parking
- Limited to 12 spaces on site
- Getting there by bus or train
- Accessible by road. Public transport options less direct
- No running water or electricity on site, so pack a hand towel
- Only 12 parking spaces, arrive early if you're driving
- Public transport links are limited, a car makes life easier
- Updates and cancellations come via app, email or phone, so keep notifications on
- Forms and consent paperwork need completing before the first session
Plan your visit
How do I book a place?
You book through their online system, then you'll get a welcome email to set up your account and complete consent forms before the first session.
What age is it suitable for?
There's no strict minimum, but they recommend children are steady on their feet so they can safely explore the woodland and use the equipment.
What happens if it's raining?
Sessions carry on through rain and snow. They only cancel for high winds, thunderstorms or severe cold where safety would be affected.
What if a session gets cancelled?
The facilitator will call or email you directly, and you won't be charged for that session.
Are there toilets on site?
There's a composting toilet and handwashing facilities, but no running water or electricity, so bring your own hand towel.
Is there parking?
Yes, but only 12 spaces on site, so it's worth getting there in good time. Public transport isn't a direct option.
What do the kids actually do during a session?
Den building, fire lighting, tool work and knot tying feature alongside bug hunting, wildlife spotting, mud kitchen play and tree climbing.
Do I need to do anything before the first session?
You'll need to complete information and consent forms through their booking platform and read the parent handbook before your child starts.
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