Image: Wikimedia Commons
Red Squirrels at Grizedale Forest: Where to See Them
10 March 2026
Grizedale Forest holds one of the healthiest red squirrel populations in the Lake District. The Forestry England woodland, mixed with the right habitat, gives them a chance against the grey squirrel. Here's where and when to look.
When to go
Red squirrels are active year-round. Autumn and winter are often the best times: they're more visible when the trees have lost their leaves, and they're busy caching food.
Early morning is best. They're most active in the first few hours after dawn. Quiet, patient watching usually pays off.
Where to look
The mixed conifer and broadleaf areas of Grizedale are the key. Red squirrels prefer Scots pine and Norway spruce. They need the right tree species to thrive.
The forest trails are well signposted. Walk quietly. Stop often. Look up. They're often higher in the canopy than you expect.
The grey squirrel problem
Grey squirrels outcompete reds for food and carry squirrelpox, which is fatal to reds. The Lake District is one of the last strongholds in England because the habitat is less suitable for greys.
Grizedale and the surrounding areas are managed to favour red squirrels. If you see a grey squirrel, you can report it to the Red Squirrel Survival Trust.
About the author
Damian
Damian has been walking the Lake District fells for decades. Ex-army, outdoor enthusiast. Keeps a yearly bird tally. Still gets up at five.