THE NATIONAL FOREST is one of England’s most ambitious environmental projects. In the very Heart of England, across parts of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, more than 200 square miles of town and countryside are being transformed, blending ancient woodland with new planting, to create this new National Forest.

This Forest in the Making is literally transforming the area, changing the landscape and forging the nation’s future heritage. Already more than seven million trees have been planted in The National Forest, which offers more than 700 miles of paths to explore in over 400 woodlands. The gentle undulating landscape is perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding. And through the creation of new habitats, it is an ideal location for bird and wildlife watching.

You can combine a peaceful riverside walk with a trip to The National Memorial Arboretum or a brewery tour in Burton upon Trent; take your family to one of the Forest’s exciting hands-on attractions such as Conkers or Snibston Discovery Centre; sail or fish on one of the Forest’s sparkling reservoirs or take a gentle canal boat trip along the waterways that weave through the area.

From watersports to wildlife watching, cycling to craft centres and loads of wet weather options too, The National Forest really does have something for everyone.

And in this ever-changing landscape as the Forest grows, one thing is guaranteed, there is always something new to see.

You can even take part in its creation by planting a tree. You will be invited to a special tree planting day to plant the small tree in a new woodland for future generations to enjoy. This also makes a great gift.

For more information on the wealth of things to do and see in The National Forest and the Plant a Tree Scheme visit the website www.nationalforest.org or call 01283 551 211.