At Reia, we believe in the power of nature to restore and inspire, and our new hand wash, SILVA, is a reflection of this philosophy.
Our new SILVA hand wash was inspired by the forest and developing it encouraged us to reconnect with some of the UK's remarkable woodlands. We're sharing a curated selection of forest hikes that promise both tranquillity and a touch of adventure.
The Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Why It’s Special Nestled on the border between England and Wales, the Forest of Dean offers an expansive escape with its ancient woodlands and meandering trails. Its rich history and diverse wildlife create a backdrop for a calming retreat from everyday life.
Look Out for Wildlife Spot wild boar, fallow deer, and even the occasional goshawk. The forest is also home to peregrine falcons, which nest along the cliffs.
Tree Types The forest is dominated by beech, oak, and sweet chestnut trees, providing year-round greenery.
Plants Keep an eye out for wildflowers like bluebells in the spring and ferns carpeting the forest floor. The ancient woodland provides an ideal habitat for mosses and fungi, which thrive in the damp environment.
Thetford Forest, Suffolk/Norfolk
Why It’s Special Thetford Forest, with its sprawling pines and serene atmosphere, is a haven for those seeking quietude and natural beauty. Its trails are meticulously maintained, making it ideal for both leisurely strolls and more vigorous hikes.
Look Out for Wildlife Look out for red deer and elusive roe deer, alongside numerous species of bats. The forest is also home to the woodlark and nightjar, which make their presence known with haunting songs at dusk.
Tree Types Thetford is rich in pine trees, predominantly Scots pine and Corsican pine. There are also pockets of broadleaf trees such as beech and oak.
Plants This forest’s sandy soil is home to rare plants like the purple-flowering heather. You might also spot fungi emerging after rain, and the dense undergrowth supports a rich variety of mosses.
Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Why It’s Special Cannock Chase blends ancient woodland with modern amenities, offering a perfect balance of natural charm and accessibility. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine.
Look Out for Wildlife Fallow deer are common, and you may also encounter muntjac and red deer. Birds such as the wood warbler and crossbill are often spotted.
Tree Types Cannock Chase features a mixture of silver birch, pine, and oak trees. The scent of pine fills the air, especially in the denser parts of the forest.
Plants The forest floor is alive with bilberry and bracken. Cannock Chase is also a haven for heather, which turns the heathland a vibrant purple in late summer
Grizedale Forest, Cumbria
Why It’s Special Grizedale Forest, located in the Lake District, is known for its art installations scattered throughout the woods, blending culture with nature. It’s an inviting space for those who find solace in both artistic and natural beauty.
Look Out for Wildlife Red squirrels thrive here, along with roe deer. The forest also supports a wide range of birdlife, including buzzards and tawny owls.
Tree Types Grizedale is dominated by a mixture of broadleaf trees like ash, oak, and birch, alongside conifers such as Douglas fir and spruce.
Plants In the spring, the forest floor is carpeted with bluebells. The damp environment nurtures mosses and lichens, adding a rich green hue to the landscape year-round.
Delamere Forest, Cheshire
Why It’s Special Delamere Forest offers a blend of open heathland and dense woodland, providing a refreshing change of scenery. Its well-maintained paths make it accessible for walkers of all abilities, while its diverse landscapes invite exploration.
Look Out for Wildlife Delamere is home to a variety of birds, including green woodpeckers and nuthatches. It’s also a great spot for spotting butterflies in the summer months.
Tree Types The forest is filled with oak, birch, and Scots pine trees. The contrast between the open heathland and shaded woodland creates a diverse ecosystem.
Plants Keep an eye out for marsh orchids in the wetter areas of the forest and a wide variety of ferns thriving in the shaded spots.
Much like the calming experience of using SILVA, each of these forests offers a unique escape into nature, where the sights and sounds ground you in the present moment. As you explore, let the stillness of the forest and the beauty of the natural world inspire moments of reflection and connection.
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