Kielder Forest & Observatory

Young deer with brown fur and white spots standing in a grassy field with tall plants and trees in the background.
Young deer with brown fur and white spots standing in a grassy field with tall plants and trees in the background.

Escape Into the Wild at Kielder

Just a short drive from Larriston Farm, Kielder Forest offers one of the most peaceful and expansive natural landscapes in the UK.

Spanning vast woodland, open moorland, and the stunning Kielder Water, it is a place to truly slow down, switch off, and reconnect with nature.

Whether you are looking for a gentle walk, a full day of exploring, or simply somewhere to breathe in the quiet, Kielder delivers in every season.

Two people, an adult and a child, hiking in a forest with backpacks, walking on a dirt trail surrounded by green trees.
Two people, an adult and a child, hiking in a forest with backpacks, walking on a dirt trail surrounded by green trees.

Explore the Forest

With miles of scenic walking and cycling trails, Kielder Forest is perfect for both relaxed strolls and more adventurous outings. You will find:

• Peaceful woodland walks surrounded by wildlife

• Lakeside routes with sweeping views across the water

• Cycle trails suitable for all levels

• Picnic spots tucked away in nature

It is an ideal destination for guests bringing dogs, with plenty of space to roam. Just be mindful of local wildlife and livestock, and keep dogs under control where needed.

Nighttime view of a modern house with wooden exterior, elevated on stilts, set against a starry sky. Some windows emit a red glow.
Nighttime view of a modern house with wooden exterior, elevated on stilts, set against a starry sky. Some windows emit a red glow.

Kielder Observatory

Tucked deep within the forest is the renowned Kielder Observatory, one of the best places in Europe to experience truly dark skies.

Far from light pollution, this unique observatory offers unforgettable stargazing experiences. On a clear night, you may see:

• Thousands of stars with the naked eye

• The Milky Way stretching across the sky

• Planets, galaxies, and distant nebulae through powerful telescopes

Events and guided sessions run throughout the year, from relaxed introductions to astronomy to more in-depth experiences for enthusiasts.

Person paddleboarding on a lake with lush green mountains in the background.
Person paddleboarding on a lake with lush green mountains in the background.

Kielder Water

Set at the heart of the forest, Kielder Water is the largest man-made lake in the UK and a stunning focal point for exploring the area.

Surrounded by rolling hills and woodland, it offers a mix of calm waters and open landscapes, perfect for both relaxing days out and more active adventures. You will find:

  • Scenic lakeside walks with far-reaching views

  • Quiet spots to sit, picnic, and take in the surroundings

  • Cycling routes that loop around the water

  • Opportunities for water-based activities, including sailing and paddleboarding

Kielder Water is also a wonderful place for wildlife spotting, with ospreys, red squirrels, and deer often seen in the area.

Whether you spend an afternoon walking the shoreline or simply pause to enjoy the stillness of the water, it is a place that invites you to slow down and take it all in.

A Place to Switch Off

Kielder is not just about what you do, but how it makes you feel. With limited signal, vast open space, and some of the darkest skies in the UK, it offers a rare chance to properly disconnect.

After a day exploring the forest or an evening under the stars, returning to the warmth and comfort of the cottage feels even more special.