Dalby Forest - Exploring England's Great Woodland

Dalby Forest is a popular outdoor recreation area in the North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire, England. Covering nearly 8,000 acres of woodland, heathland, streams and open spaces, Dalby offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and family days out. The forest is managed by the Forestry Commission and offers visitors a mix of pine, larch and broadleaf trees. The most common trees here are Scots pine and Norway spruce. In the more sheltered southern part of the forest near Thornton Dale, you’ll also find oak and birch. Dalby Forest as a visitor attraction began to take shape in the 1970s. The commission opened a series of waymarked trails and built a network of forest roads allowing better public access. The opening of cycle trails, a visitor centre and adventure activities all followed over subsequent decades. 

Some parts of the forest date back over 300 years, planted as a source of timber. Now the forest is also managed as an important habitat for wildlife conservation. Due to the variation of habitats here, the forest is home to a wide variety of bird and animal species. For visitors, Dalby Forest provides endless trails for walking, cycling and horse riding. The family-friendly Go-Ape treetop adventure course located here is also very popular. Other facilities include a cafe, a bike hire centre and an outdoor concert area that hosts regular music events. Now receiving almost 750,000 visitors per year, Dalby Forest has transformed into one of the foremost woodlands in Northern England. Its rich ecology and variety of facilities have made it a hugely popular destination for days out and outdoor activities.

As one of the most popular attractions in the North York Moors, Dalby Forest offers visitors a huge choice of things to see and do. This section will highlight the must-visit areas and top activities available.

• The Visitor Centre - The main visitor centre should be the first stop for any trip to Dalby Forest. As well as an informative display of the forest's ecology, the centre provides handy visitor information. The centre also houses a large shop selling gifts, outdoor clothing and cycling accessories. The Courtyard Cafe located here serves hot meals and snacks offering both indoor and outdoor seating.

• Go Ape Dalby – The hugely popular Go Ape treetop adventure course is a classic Dalby activity. Located just behind the visitor centre, the high ropes feature a series of crossings, obstacles, zip wires and Tarzan swings high up amongst the pine trees. With challenges to suit various skill levels, it provides a fun day out for families and friends.

• Mountain Biking – Having hosted past UCI Mountain Bike World Cup events, Dalby Forest is regarded as one of England's top mountain biking destinations. The forest boasts over 30 miles of waymarked off-road cycling trails to suit beginners and experts alike. Bike hire is available from the on-site cycle hub building.

• Walking Trails – Dalby visitors can explore miles of picturesque walking trails through the pine forest and tranquil wooded valleys. Short accessible trails start from 1⁄2 mile while longer routes cover up to 6 miles. Popular paths include the Nature Trail and the 14-mile Stone Dale Horseshoe route.

• Outdoor Concerts – During summertime, Dalby Forest transforms into an outdoor music venue. Dalby Forest LIVE hosts big-name artists and bands on the custom-built concert stage and arena. Since 2010, major acts like Elbow, Paul Weller, Tom Jones and Madness have performed here.

With endless footpaths crossing right through the forest, Dalby offers a superb selection of waymarked walking trails to suit all ages and abilities. Here is just a small selection of recommended routes to try out:

Woodland Wonder Trail

Starting right beside the visitor centre, the fun Woodland Wonder Trail serves as a perfect short walk for first-time visitors and families. Following a smooth 1-mile stone path into the forest, information boards reveal interesting facts about the wildlife and trees found in Dalby. Kids will enjoy spotting different plants and animals highlighted along the route. The trail leads gently downhill through forest glades and across babbling streams via small footbridges. Several activity posts allow children to search for minibeasts under logs or check inside nest boxes used by birds. Interpretive panels also describe the commercial forestry management and recreation development of Dalby over time. After winding through Cockrah Wood, the walk emerges at Hill Hagg shelter on the outskirts of Thornton Dale village. Picnic tables here make an ideal rest stop before returning to the visitor centre. With friendly terrain, engaging activities and cute woodland creatures to spot, the Wonder Trail makes learning about nature fun for all the family.

Maggie’s Trail

Named after Mrs Margaret Duncombe who once resided on the Thornton Dale Estate where Dalby Forest now lies, this moderate 3-mile walk explores the southernmost part of the forest. Linking Old Wife's Way down to the Staindale area, Maggie's Trail mixes forest scenery with valley views. The walk begins at the stone viewpoint of Castle Hill where superb vistas look out over the Vale of Pickering. The route then heads downhill via steps into denser pine woods alive with birdsong. Some fallen tree trunks along here provide habitats for beetles and fungi. Passing a pretty pond, the trail ambles downhill crossing the old railway line which serves as part of the 15-mile Esk Valley Walk. Gentle climbs through Oakdale and Carble Becks feature log-lined paths and steps crafted from railway sleepers. After crossing the bridge over Staindale Beck, the walk emerges at the Staindale Cycle Hub where refreshments are available. For those without transport, this area lies only 25 minutes on foot from Thornton Dale village via countryside lanes making Maggie's Trail quite accessible.

Dalby Red Route

Forming part of the original Red graded mountain bike trail network constructed during the 1990s, the Dalby Red Route has also become a firm favourite for long-distance and challenging day hikes. Measuring 6 miles in length, the path forms a large loop incorporating the highest and most remote parts of Dalby Forest. Setting off up the steep stone track behind the visitor centre, the walk soon leads up onto High Dalby moorland with its heather-lined paths and big skies. The trail undulates over peaks like Round Hill which offer panoramic views over the forest and North York Moors beyond. The walk then descends via rocky steps down past ruined mine workings shrouded in gorse bushes and silver birch trees. Further downhill sections require navigating tree roots and eroded gullies which can be tricky after rainfall. Through the valley bottoms, old oak woods and beck crossings provide picturesque spots to rest before climbing again up to Rigg Hill and Raven Hill. After following fast-flowing mountain bike descents, the walk emerges back at the start point behind the visitor centre after much up and downhill terrain.

Stone Dale Horseshoe

Ringing the higher land north of Dalby Forest, the epic 14-mile Stone Dale Horseshoe route provides a full-day hike for experienced walkers. Described as ‘the finest walk in the North York Moors’, it packs scenic moorland, enchanting woodland and charming villages into a challenging figure-of-eight circuit. The rambling route provides a peaceful alternative to Dalby’s busier trails, passing more livestock and gamebirds than people. However, the lack of waymarkers across the high heather moors requires good navigation and Ordnance Survey map reading skills. Appropriate gear like hardy boots, waterproofs and spare food is also essential. Setting off from Low Dalby, the walk soon climbs up onto Sleightholme Moor affording commanding views over surrounding forests and the Cleveland Plain. Barrows, cairns and curious rock formations litter the windswept landscape. Descending to Stone Dale village, quaint cottages line the babbling brook. Further woodland valleys and sheltering forests offer a contrast during the loop back to Dalby. Multiple climbs accumulating 1500ft make it a proper challenge but scenic rewards justify the effort. For serious hikers, Stone Dale Horseshoe should rank highly on your Yorkshire to-do list!

Nature Trail

Catering perfectly for young families, Dalby's easy-graded Nature Trail forms a short 1-mile walking loop just behind the visitor centre. Covering level well-surfaced pathways and footbridges over streams allows buggies and wheelchairs to enjoy a traffic-free forest wander. Interpretive panels also reveal interesting nature facts in a child-friendly fashion. The trail sets off into peaceful Cockrah Woods alive with birdsong. Footpath nature detectives will enjoy spotting different plants, trees and animals featured on the signposts. Nuthatches, treecreepers, squirrels and owls all reside in this area. Photo posts demonstrate the changing forest scenery across seasons. Looping across two footbridges over pretty becks, the walk then enters a denser pine forest. Wooden sculptures here depict local wildlife including a giant spider and a family of foxes. Before returning to the play area, the trail opens out across grassy glades perfect for picnics or games of tag. With friendly terrain, cute creatures, engaging signs and the reward of ice cream from the courtyard cafe afterwards, the easy Nature Trail captures kids' imaginations, nurturing an appreciation of nature from an early age.

Sherwood Trail

The 3-and-a-half-mile Sherwood walking trail located in Dalby Forest's southern section combines history, charming scenery and gentle activity into a delightful route for all abilities. Mixing intriguing relics, dense forestry and open moorland, it serves up a wonderfully varied walking experience. The walk begins from the small car park at the Staindale end of the forest. Initially following forestry tracks uphill amidst towering pines, it winds up onto Crinney Moss granting wide views over the Vale of Pickering. Heather-lined paths then traverse this moorland area full of old coal mining remnants. Dropping into sheltered Oak Dale, the walk crosses babbling brooks via quaint little wooden footbridges seemingly lifted from fairy tales. interpretive panels here explain the ancient woodland management systems and coppicing which created these dells. Further downhill sections enter hillier terrain cut by narrow cycling paths through dense pine woods which provide a sense of mystery. Emerging back at Staindale completes a highly scenic short walk easily managed within 2 hours.

Staindale Cycle Route

Forming one of Dalby's most picturesque recreational trails, the 6km Staindale Cycle Route allows walkers, cyclists and horse riders to explore a tranquil wooded valley just south of the main forest area. Suitable for all ages, it follows a mixture of stone tracks, country lanes and off-road bridleways. Beginning in the quaint village of Thornton Dale, the route initially follows quiet farm access lanes climbing gently uphill via Brock Crag Wood. Emerging above the tree canopy here provides lovely long-range views across the Vale of Pickering towards the North York Moors.

Dropping down off Brock Moor, the trail then enters the steep-sided valley holding Staindale Beck. A hairpin bends descend via rocky steps and tree root trails underneath dense oak woodland. The sounds of tumbling water and birdsong fill the air throughout this section. Crossing the beck itself using ancient stone slab bridges, the ride then curves north on the valley floor through more pine plantation woods. Passing pretty Staindale Lake, the route returns to Thornton Dale completing an attractive varied loop. With family-friendly terrain, charming scenery and a nice cycling cafe located at the Staindale Hub halfway point, the Staindale Cycle Route offers an easy introduction to exploring the landscapes around Dalby Forest.

With so many options available, it’s easy to spend multiple days in Dalby Forest tackling all the different walking routes. Don’t forget to pick up a detailed trail map from the visitor centre before embarking on your walk.

As one of the top mountain biking centres in the UK, Dalby Forest boasts an array of cycling trails to challenge every skill level. From gentle family loops to black-graded downhill runs, over 30 miles of purpose-built single-track rewards riders weaving through the forest.

The Trail Centre

Opened in 2018, Dalby's custom-built southern trail centre took the forest's biking opportunities to the next level. Hand-crafted by leading trail designers, its precise paths twist through pine woods and lush valleys. Trails like Marmalade, Deadwood and LA Nuts offer continuous features for a premium riding experience. Advanced options like the black-graded Tokyo Drift demand sharp bike handling skills with its wall rides, jumps and drop-offs. Easier green and blue trails cater for beginner and junior riders. This dedicated zone provides everything a mountain biker could wish for!

The Northern Red Route Network

In the northern part of Dalby Forest, the original Red, Blue and Green graded routes span the High Dalby and Low Dalby zones. Classic trails like Dirty Deeds, Easy Rider and Psycho Path mix challenging lung-busting climbs with tricky rock gardens and adrenalin-fuelled descents. Natural terrain adds an old-school feel. Route names like Bone Shaker, Dragon's Back and Canadian Trail reflect the raw riding experience. Expert riders can still find technical challenges, especially after rainfall when routes become more treacherous.

Facilities

Dalby's Cycle Hub offers bike hire, workshops, guiding and coaching to visitors. Quality trail bikes, e-bikes and full-suspension models are available for hire. Experienced staff offer custom setup, route advice and skill coaching for all abilities. With excellent trails matched by first-rate facilities, it's clear why Dalby Forest ranks as a world-class riding destination.

Visitors wishing to fully immerse themselves in the Dalby Forest experience may consider an overnight stay in the heart of the forest itself. Convenient camping and self-catering options are available within walking distance of the main visitor facilities and trails.

Camping at Dalby Forest

Nestled amongst the pine trees just across from the visitor centre lies Dalby Forest Campsite, providing a low-key back-to-basics camping experience. The small campground features 60 spacious pitches suitable for tents, caravans and motorhomes. Pitches enjoy partial shade from the surrounding Scots pines and Norway spruce but remain mainly grassy open spaces. Gravel vehicle parking bays are marked out beside each pitch along with fire pits for disposable barbecues. Campers must bring their own drinking water and picnic tables. Modern toilet, shower and dishwashing facilities are provided in two heated blocks along with potable water taps, waste disposal points and coin-operated laundry. Friendly residential wardens take care of site maintenance and oversee camper check-ins. Standard tent pitching costs around £27 per night during peak summer seasons for up to four people and one car. Reservations well in advance are essential for weekends and school holidays when pitches sell out fast.

Forest Lodges

For more comfortable and private accommodation surrounded by nature, Dalby's luxury forest lodges provide a premium glamping experience. Each lodge features underfloor heating, double bedrooms with crisp white linen, a chic bathroom, and a fully-equipped kitchen with oven, hob and fridge. Twelve lodges overlook Low Dalby with gorgeous views extending over Thornton Dale village. Nine larger models lie amidst oak trees in Oak Dale commanding vistas up to Crinney Moss. Outside, lodges feature sunken hot tubs, barbecue patios and fire pits. Bike racks allow secure storage. Lodges are cleaned thoroughly between occupants and come provisioned with tea, coffee and other helpful basics. As well as footpath network access, guests enjoy exclusive use of the Forest Spa with an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna cabin, gymnasium and treatment room facilities. Rates for a two-night lodge stay for four guests start from £470 during off-peak spring/autumn months but average £500-650 in peak summer seasons with minimum stays extending to seven nights across school holidays. Two-storey lodges also sleep six

Alternative Accommodation

Visitors wishing to stay near Dalby Forest also have the option of cottages, B&Bs, hotels and holiday parks all within a short drive of the forest entrance and trails. Local towns like Thornton-le-Dale and Pickering offer a wider variety of accommodation choices to suit different needs and budgets.

With camping pitches, luxury lodges and plenty of alternative options nearby, Dalby Forest presents a very convenient base for adventure. Waking up to birdsong each morning before walking straight out into nature certainly has its appeal!

Beyond simply exploring the forest and trails, visitors to Dalby can also experience exciting events and concerts hosted right in the forest itself. Since 2010, the annual Dalby Forest LIVE music festival has attracted huge crowds. Staged within a custom concert arena and theatre, major artists including Tom Jones, Madness, Paul Weller and Orbital have all performed sets against the spectacular forest backdrop. The venue can accommodate 15,000 festival-goers.

Complementing the concerts is a full festival experience including funfair rides, street food stalls, pop-up bars and glamping villages. Big-name artists coupled with an intimate forest setting have made Dalby LIVE an unmissable fixture in Yorkshire’s events calendar. Alongside the annual summer music festival, Dalby Forest also hosts smaller-scale outdoor events throughout the year. These include open-air theatre, woodland cinema screenings under the stars plus food & craft fairs.

Key annual events include the Dalby Challenge Adventure Race, Dalby Christmas MTB Race Series and the Dalby Dunkirk Memorial Service. The forest also provides an iconic stage for sportives like Yorkshire’s Reservoir Rats cycling event which passes through here.

Dalby Forest enjoys an easily accessible location within the North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire. Situated only 20 miles from Scarborough and around 13 miles from Pickering, it can be reached easily from towns across the region. Most visitors reach the forest by road with ample free parking spaces available. Dalby Forest is located just over 1 mile west of the A169 road between Scarborough and Whitby. It can be reached via various minor roads including the B1258 from Thornton Dale. Signposts guide visitors from all directions. When approaching along the A169, turn west towards Thornton Dale village at the roundabout junction with the B1416. Continue for 3 miles then turn left onto Staindale Lane following signs for the visitor centre.

If relying on public transport, the nearest railway station to Dalby Forest is Malton which has direct trains from York, Leeds and Hull. Visitors could then complete the 20-mile onward journey to the forest via bus or taxi. A closer station at Seamer provides direct trains from Middlesborough, Scarborough and Hull. Various bus routes operated by Yorkshire Coastliner, Arriva and Scarborough & District serve towns and villages around Dalby Forest. Visitors can then access the forest entrance on foot or bike along the country lanes. Useful routes include the 128 from Pickering and 843 from Thornton Dale.