Go Ape Grizedale: Thrilling Forest Adventure in the Lake District
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Go Ape Grizedale, a forest playground for all ages.
Go Ape Grizedale offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure set in the heart of the Lake District’s Grizedale Forest. Featuring high ropes courses, zip lines, and family-friendly activities, it combines adrenaline-pumping fun with stunning natural scenery. Visitors can challenge themselves on various treetop courses, soar across 3 km of ziplines, and enjoy the forest’s peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Go Ape Grizedale
- Go Ape, Ambleside, Grizedale, LA22 0QJ, GB
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Go Ape Grizedale.
- Book your adventure online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear suitable for climbing and uneven forest terrain.
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before your session to complete safety briefings and check-in.
- Combine your visit with exploring Grizedale Forest’s walking trails and art installations for a full day out.
- Take advantage of the Courtyard Café for refreshments and outdoor seating to relax after your adventure.
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Getting There
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Car
Driving from Ambleside takes about 25 minutes via local roads to Grizedale Forest. Parking is available at Kennels Car Park and Grizedale Main Car Park. Note that sat nav directions can be unreliable; consult a map for best route. Parking is free but can fill up on busy days.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Ambleside to Hawkshead, from where a taxi or local shuttle can be used to reach Grizedale Forest. The bus journey from Windermere to Ambleside takes about 30 minutes, with onward travel requiring coordination. Public transport options are limited and less frequent on weekends.
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Walking
For the adventurous, walking routes from Hawkshead to Grizedale Forest cover approximately 7 km through scenic woodland and rural paths. The terrain is moderate with some hills, suitable for fit walkers and those prepared for a 1.5 to 2-hour hike.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Picnic Areas
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Trash Bins
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Information Boards
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Visitor Center
Go Ape Grizedale location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Go Ape Grizedale
Immersive Forest Adventure in the Lake District
Go Ape Grizedale is nestled within the lush expanse of Grizedale Forest near Ambleside, offering visitors a unique blend of outdoor excitement and natural beauty. This expansive woodland playground invites adventurers to climb, balance, and zip through the treetops on a variety of high ropes courses and zip lines that cater to different skill levels and ages. The forest itself is renowned for its scenic walking and cycling trails, making the location a versatile destination for both thrill-seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in nature.Varied Courses for All Ages and Abilities
The site features several distinct courses, including the family-friendly Treetop Adventure, which is ideal for beginners and children over 1 meter tall. More experienced visitors can take on the Treetop Challenge and Challenge Plus courses, which offer higher platforms, longer ziplines, and more demanding obstacles like Tarzan Swings and sky-high crossings. The signature Zip Trekking Adventure is a standout experience exclusive to Grizedale, allowing participants aged 13 and over to soar across 3 kilometers of ziplines with breathtaking views of the Lake District fells.Facilities and Visitor Experience
Go Ape Grizedale is well-equipped to enhance the visitor experience with amenities such as the Courtyard Café, offering hot and cold refreshments and outdoor seating surrounded by forest ambiance. There are also restroom facilities, picnic areas, and a visitor center providing information and personal storage options. The site encourages safety and preparation, recommending sturdy footwear and advance booking to secure preferred time slots. Staff are known for their professionalism and friendly support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for all.Environmental Setting and Scenic Highlights
The forest setting provides a tranquil backdrop to the high-energy activities, with the highest points in Grizedale offering spectacular 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding Lake District landscape. Visitors can combine their Go Ape experience with exploring the forest’s art installations, walking trails, and wildlife habitats. The location’s protected natural environment emphasizes sustainability and low-impact recreation, inviting visitors to connect with nature responsibly.Events, Group Activities, and Educational Programs
Go Ape Grizedale caters to a variety of groups and occasions, including children’s birthday parties, stag parties, and corporate team-building events. The site also hosts award-winning school trips that combine outdoor adventure with educational enrichment. Group bookings are supported with special offers and tailored experiences to maximize fun and engagement.Seasonal Operation and Accessibility
Operating typically from February/March through November/December, Go Ape Grizedale opens daily with sessions starting in the morning and running until mid-afternoon. While the location is accessible by car with parking available nearby, public transport options require some planning due to the forest’s remote setting. The adventure courses require a moderate level of fitness and confidence at heights, with age and height restrictions ensuring safety. The site is committed to accessibility and encourages visitors to inquire about support needs in advance.Explore the best of what Go Ape Grizedale has to offer
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