Savernake Forest

Visitor information

Facilities and access

Toilets are open from Easter until the end of October half term.

Assistant dogs welcome
Dogs allowed
Picnic area
Toilets

Sun shining through broadleaf trees onto orange bracken

Savernake Forest

Discover ancient trees and a mosaic of habitats in this historical forest

Located south of Marlborough, Savernake Forest is rich in history and has lots to explore. It is a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a registered important historic park, making it the perfect forest for an exciting and educational day out.

The history of the forest goes back for a thousand years or more. Its long history of human management has created an outstanding legacy of old trees, rich landscapes, and diverse habitats. One of the country's oldest trees, the Big Bellied Oak, is very noticeable on the side of the A346.

Help us protect the forest from wildfire - please do not light BBQs, fires, or camp stoves in the forest.

At a glance

Walking trails
Ancient trees
Picnic area
Dogs welcome

Things to do

Forest Find | Savernake Forest

Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or enthusiast amateur it's easy to take part, just start recording wildlife on your next visit...

Download the free iNaturalist app before you visit Discover and record wildlife through the app on your forest adventure

Download now on iOS

Download now on AndroidiNaturalist is an independent third party application. Please check their full privacy policy and terms of service before signing upYou can create records without having 4G or Wi-Fi in the forest. Download our full user guide and top tips.

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Picnics at Savernake Forest

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at one of our beautiful picnic areas, just bring along good food and company!

To prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any barbecues into our forests.

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Walking at Savernake Forest

Walking in the forest is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of Wiltshire's most beautiful landscapes.

There are a variety of surfaced and non-surfaced paths and tracks within the forest. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the forest's ancient trees, you don't know what you might stumble upon.

Walkers are welcome in the cattle grazing enclosures. Please close the gates behind you.

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Nearby forests

West Woods

Located south of Marlborough, West Woods is a beautiful ancient woodland site.

The woodland becomes very popular in late spring due to the fantastic displays of bluebells which carpet the forest floor in certain areas.

There is a good network of walking trails including an easy access route for you to explore. Please help us protect the forest by only cycling on stone-surfaced forest roads and bridleways.

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Nightingale Wood

Planted in the 1990s on an former agricultural site, Nightingale Wood is a community woodland that supports a large variety of wildlife, especially birds.

Make sure to bring your binoculars - you never know what you may spot!

Choose from three easy access trails for a peaceful outdoor walk, pause for a picnic, and explore the play equipment, funded by the Great Western Community Forest project.

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Webb's Wood

Just west of Swindon, Webb's Wood is home to a variety of habitats, making it ideal for bird watching and nature lovers.

Explore the wide open areas with your four legged friend, or take some time for yourself within the peaceful broadleaved woodland.

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Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

Book tickets

Home to 2,500 different species from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is the perfect place for you to escape, relax or have an adventure! Take a journey up into the canopy on the STIHL Tree Top Walkway, stop by the café for a tasty treat or see if you can spot the Gruffalo!

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