The Grizedale Stages rally. Photo: Stephen Hill

If you go down to the woods this month, you’re in for a noisy surprise.

Much of Grizedale Forest will be out of bounds to walkers as more than 100 rally cars thunder round the Cumbrian tracks which will be shut off to the public for safety reasons. 5,000 spectators are also expected, so if it’s peace and quiet you’re after, avoid Grizedale at the end of November.

The Grizedale Stages event takes place on Saturday 29 November. All footpaths, bridleways and trails between Coniston Water and the Hawkshead to Satterthwaite road will be out of bounds, along with two on Broughton Moor. Forestry Commission open access land and permissive paths in the area will also be closed.

Signs will be in place to warn of the closures and authorities say the routes will be reopened as soon as possible after the petrolheads have had their fun.

The Lake District national park’s access and rights of way officer, Nick Thorne apologised for any inconvenience.

He said: “We really have no option but to put public safety first.

“It would present a serious risk if people were to carry on using the rights of way when the rally is in progress.”

Katie Jarvis, recreation ranger for the Forestry Commission added: “The rally is a great event to watch, but for those who would rather walk or mountain bike there are alternative routes on the east side of the Hawkshead to Satterthwaite road.”

The 2008 rally will be the 21st time the event has run. It is expected to attract 135 competing crews and will be staffed by 400 marshals and other officials.