Go Ape – Grizedale & Whinlatter Forests

If you’re looking to release your inner gorilla, Go Ape in Cumbria has two fantastic spots tucked away in the heart of the Lake District. Both locations offer a serious adrenaline fix with incredible views of the fells and forests.

Whinlatter Forest

• Where: Near Keswick, CA12 5TW, Cumbria.
• The Vibe: This is the highest Go Ape in the UK! Because it’s built on a mountain slope, you get some jaw-dropping views of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake while you’re dangling from the trees.
• What to Expect: You’ve got the Treetop Challenge for the big kids and adults, featuring high-speed ziplines and tricky crossings. For younger adventurers (usually over 1m tall), the Treetop Adventure is a great way to build confidence. They also have Forest Segways if you’d rather keep your feet closer to the ground while exploring the rugged woodland trails.
• Budgeting & Food: Parking is pay-on-exit and can get busy, so arriving early is a smart move. The onsite cafe is lovely but can be a bit pricey for a full family meal, so many visitors recommend bringing a packed lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables. If you live nearby or plan on hitting multiple Go Ape sites in a year, the annual membership is a total winner.
• Insider Tip: It’s often much cooler and windier up at Whinlatter than down in Keswick, so even if it’s sunny, bring a light jacket. Visitors often pair this with a walk on the Gruffalo Trail or a mountain bike session on the famous “Altura” trails nearby.

Grizedale Forest

• Where: Near Hawkshead, LA22 0QJ, Cumbria.
• The Vibe: Famous for its outdoor sculptures and deep, lush forest, this site feels like a massive natural playground.
• What to Expect: Alongside the classic Treetop Challenge and Adventure courses, Grizedale is home to the Zip Trekking Adventure—a series of seven huge ziplines spanning a total of 3km. It’s a massive hit for anyone who loves flying through the air.
• Budgeting & Food: Keep an eye out for Blue Light Card discounts or student rates if they apply to you. Seniors can often grab a discount on certain days too. Like Whinlatter, parking is paid, and the forest cafe gets busy. There are plenty of beautiful spots to sit and eat your own food for free.
• Insider Tip: People usually spend about 2 to 3 hours on the courses, but you can easily make a full day of it by exploring the famous sculpture trails afterwards. If you have time, the village of Hawkshead is just down the road for a post-climb ice cream or a wander through the cobbled streets.

General Info for Both

• Restrictions: Treetop Challenge is generally for those 10 years+ and over 1.4m tall. Treetop Adventure is designed for younger children (typically over 1m tall).
• Combine your trip: Both sites are surrounded by world-class walking and cycling trails. If you have the energy left, Whinlatter has some of the best mountain biking in the North, while Grizedale offers a more artistic stroll through the woods to find hidden statues.