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Forests play a vital role not only in preserving biodiversity and combating climate change but also in boosting the tourism economy. A recent study commissioned by the Forestry Commission, summarised in the report Forests’ Role in Tourism: Phase 2 (2003), sheds light on the immense economic significance of forest-related tourism in Great Britain.

Forest Tourism: A Significant Contributor to the UK Economy

The report estimates that forest-related tourism contributes approximately £2.3 billion annually to the UK economy, making up 3.3% of the nation’s total tourism expenditure. These figures reflect spending by tourists who visit forests either as a primary activity or as part of a broader trip to the countryside. The study highlights that forests not only attract dedicated forest visitors but also play a role in drawing people to rural areas, even when forests are not their main destination.

Understanding Forest Visitors

The report classifies forest visitors into three key groups:

  1. Forest-Only Visitors: People who travel specifically to visit forests, accounting for the highest proportion of forest-related expenditures.
  2. Forest-Combined Visitors: Those who combine a forest visit with other activities, with only part of their trip expenses attributed to forests.
  3. Casual Forest Visitors: Individuals who decide to visit a forest incidentally during their trip, contributing minimally to forest-specific revenue.

Regional Highlights

The economic impact of forest tourism varies across the UK:

  • England: Forest-related tourism contributes £2,054 million annually, accounting for 3.4% of the country’s total tourism expenditure.
  • Scotland: £163 million, representing 2.5% of total tourism spending.
  • Wales: £51 million, or 1.8% of total tourism expenditure.

Forests also significantly influence tourism in heavily forested countryside areas, such as the New Forest in England and the Trossachs in Scotland. In these regions, forests account for as much as 15–17% of total tourism expenditures.

Key Drivers of Forest Tourism

Visitor preferences, attitudes, and forest attributes play a pivotal role in shaping tourism behaviour:

  • Facilities: Amenities like trails, picnic areas, and visitor centres significantly impact visitor satisfaction and frequency.
  • Environmental Attitudes: The study found a strong correlation between positive attitudes towards forests and higher visitation rates, as well as longer and more frequent visits.

Challenges and Recommendations

The report emphasises the need for better data collection and monitoring to support decision-making in forest and tourism management. Recommendations include:

  • Standardising visitor monitoring protocols across public and private forest sites.
  • Expanding research into the socio-economic and psychological factors driving forest visits.
  • Developing integrated forestry and tourism policies to maximise forests’ economic and ecological contributions.

A Call to Action

Forests are not just a natural haven but an economic powerhouse, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and fostering community well-being. As policymakers and organisations consider future investments in forestry and tourism, it is essential to recognise forests as a valuable asset to both the economy and the environment.

The findings of this report make it clear that forests are more than just a backdrop to rural tourism – they are a driving force behind its success.


Reference: Hill, G., Courtney, P., Burton, R., & Potts, J. (2003). Forests’ Role in Tourism: Phase 2. The Macaulay Institute, University of Gloucestershire, University of Glasgow, BioSS. Commissioned by the Forestry Commission. https://www.forestry.gov.scot/publications/604-forests-role-in-tourism-summary-report

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