Frequently asked questions
Ticketing
Where can I buy tickets from?
You can buy tickets for Halloween at High Lodge online from Forestry England. If tickets are sold out, you may be able to purchase re-sale tickets securely using Forestry England's re-sale partner Tixel.
Do I have to book in advance?
We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Each timed entry has a limited capacity, and the early evening and weekend slots are likely to sell out.
Please note that on the day pricing is higher than tickets purchased in advance. On the day tickets are available via Ticketek only (subject to availability)
Can I buy additional tickets?
Yes, subject to availability. If you require any additional trail tickets after placing your order, please purchase these online as an additional transaction
What is the difference between Daylight, Twilight and Moonlight?
The trail remains the same at all times of day. Younger visitors may prefer to experience the trail with the spooky surprises in plain sight, whilst those hardier guests may only need the moonlight. Whatever time you visit, the trail is suitable for guests of all ages.
What are the dates, trail times and prices?
Please click here to view a grid displaying all dates and trail times, including prices.
Does my ticket include daytime parking prior to Halloween at Thetford Forest?
Tickets are only valid from 4pm onwards, and the trail entry time chosen. If you would like to visit Thetford Forest earlier in the day before the event, you can pre-book here.
Do I need to buy a car parking ticket to park for Halloween at High Lodge?
If you are planning to arrive by car to Halloween at High Lodge you must book your parking space prior to arrival along with your trail tickets online. Parking spaces are priced at £8.
If you are a Forestry England member, parking is free of charge, however, you will still need to pre-book your space. Parking tickets should be presented for scanning on arrival at the car park. Please follow all instructions from stewards.
I am a Forestry England member, do I still need to pay for Halloween at High Lodge?
Yes, the trail ticket prices apply to all, however members are eligible for one free car parking space per membership, which must be pre-booked at least 1 day in advance with Forestry England (full details on member parking are below).
How do I book member parking for Halloween at High Lodge?
Members are eligible for one free parking space for each membership, which must be pre-booked at least 1 day in advance with Forestry England. Free member parking will be offered at the time of booking, or can be booked in advance by contacting customerrelations@forestryengland.uk. You will need to provide your membership number to book your free member space.
If you are a member, and require Blue Badge parking, please contact customerrelations@forestryengland.uk to check availability and book (subject to availability).
Free member parking is only available in advance, parking charges will apply if you have not pre-booked a parking ticket. You must present a valid membership card on arrival. If you do not present a valid membership card on arrival, you will be charged for your parking space.
How do I add parking to my booking after purchasing tickets?
You can book your parking by selecting buy tickets from our webpage, and choosing the date required when prompted (you can select any timeslot). Parking tickets are in “Extras” tab. You do not need to select any trail tickets to book any parking spaces.
If you are a member, and require Blue Badge parking, please contact customerrelations@forestryengland.uk to check availability and book (subject to availability).
How/when will I receive my tickets?
A confirmation email, including a link to download your ticket/s, will be emailed to you straight after you have completed your booking. Please download these to your phone/device in advance to show on arrival, alternatively you can bring a printed copy.
Why is the on-the-day price more?
With the enjoyment and well-being of our visitors in mind, having an on-the-day price allows for any last-minute adjustments we, the organisers, might have to make in terms of staffing and catering levels to ensure the smooth running of the trail. Wherever possible we support our customers in planning ahead, giving them the opportunity to not only buy at a cheaper price but also to purchase parking at the same time.
Can I show my tickets on my phone?
You can show your tickets on your phone as long as the barcode is clearly visible on entry. Please ensure you have downloaded your tickets on your device before arriving as signal at the venue is limited. Please turn the brightness on your device up to ensure easy scanning of the barcode. Alternatively, you can bring a printed copy.
I bought tickets from Forestry England but have not received a confirmation email. What should I do?
Please check your junk / spam folders as sometimes the confirmation email falls into these. If you have not received your confirmation email, you can log into your account here to download your tickets, or for further assistance contact customerrelations@forestryengland.uk.
If you purchased your trail tickets with Ticketek, please contact Ticketek directly here
How can I organise a group visit and is there a group rate?
There is a group rate of 10% off groups of 15+ adults when purchased via Ticketek. To make a group booking, please complete a booking form with Ticketek.
5 coach spaces are available per evening, and 10 minibus spaces. Coach parking is charged at £20 per coach and minibus parking is charged at £15 per minibus (in addition to trail tickets).
Once you have submitted your query via the contact form, please allow 2 working days for the Ticketek team to respond to your query via email.
Why is there a transaction fee?
The fee charged for e-tickets is for the ticket provider, as they maintain the hardware and software at the venue so your paper ticket will be recognised or your device scanned. It also allows us to develop and maintain our own technology to make sure you have a simple, straightforward experience getting into your event.
Please make sure you’re booking tickets for everyone in your party including children and infant tickets. Separate transaction fees will apply for additional bookings.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Unfortunately, gift vouchers are not available for the trail.
I have an issue or query about my booking?
For bookings with Forestry England, our Customer Relations team can help you. Contact customerrelations@forestryengland.ukwith your booking reference and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
If you purchased your trail tickets with Ticketek, please contact Ticketek directly here.
Halloween Light Trail
How long is the trail?
The trail loop is 1.3km long. There may be up to a 500m walk from the car parks to the start of trail.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Yes, well behaved dogs are welcome on leads along with guide and assistance dogs. Some themed content may be distressing for animals, please consider the Halloween theme of the trail. Please be a responsible dog owner and pick up after your dog - under no circumstances are dogs to be left in vehicles.
Is the trail dark or covered?
In some areas the lighting will be low level as this is part of the experience. We do encourage visitors to bring along a torch in case of an emergency - this should not be used unless it is necessary. All visitors are reminded that this is an outdoor illuminated trail with no indoor areas and the weather may be inclement. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for autumn. We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the walk, if it is felt they are open to greater risk of injury.
What should I wear?
Halloween at Thetford Forest takes place outdoors and you may need to queue on busy days. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter weather. We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the trail if it is felt they are open to a greater risk of injury. Halloween fancy dress is of course encouraged!
Should I arrive in advance of my time slot?
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes prior to your trail time as the trail entrance is a short walk from the car park. Entry to the trail may not be permitted after the last trail entry time has passed.
If I am delayed and miss my slot, can I join a later slot?
If you are running late, entry onto the trail is not guaranteed. We will try and accommodate you on the next available trail slot within the trail operational hours on the day. Entry to the trail cannot be permitted after the last trail entry time as passed.
Please ensure you leave enough time for your journey and plan your route in advance. We advise that you aim to arrive 15 minutes prior to your trail entry time.
What time does the illuminated trail finish?
Last entry to the trail will be 15 minutes after the last timeslot of the day. All customers must exit the car park no later than 2 hours after the last trail start time or by 10pm (whichever is earliest).
Can I bring my drone?
Drones are not permitted.
Can I take photographs?
Yes, you are welcome to take photographs and to share these on social media with the hashtag #HalloweenThetfordForest.
Commercial photography is not permitted at this event, except by prior written agreement. To enquire please email highlodge.feedback@forestryengland.uk
Are there toilets?
Toilets, including changing places and accessible toilet, plus baby changing facilities, are located at the Information Point building.
Can I have a catering stand at this event?
If you have any questions regarding having a catering stand at one of our trails, please email commercialenquiries@raymondgubbay.co.uk
Access provisions
What provision do you have for guests with access needs?
The trail is created to be as accessible as possible within the natural landscape of High Lodge. The lighting trail is designed so that all installations can be viewed from the pathways.
An accessible toilet is available at the Information Point building. Limited toilet provision will be provided at the midway point.
There is a Changing Places toilet located directly behind the Information Point. The Changing Places toilet provides sanitary accommodation for people with multiple and complex disabilities and is designed for people who cannot use a standard accessible toilet. It includes a ceiling track hoist system, adult-sized changing benches, curtains and adequate space for the disabled person and assistants. A radar key is required to access this facility.
Do you have accessible parking for visitors with disabilities?
Accessible spaces for Blue Badge holders are located in the hardstanding car park. Due to high demand, we strongly advise that you book your accessible parking alongside your trail tickets.
If you do not have a Blue Badge and would like to discuss your eligibility, please contact customerrelations@forestryengland.uk
Please note that these spaces are limited and must be purchased in advance. Visitors with limited mobility can be dropped off approximately 50m from the start of the trail if required, please speak to the parking attendants on arrival.
Is the trail accessible for wheelchair, mobility scooter and pushchair users?
The trail includes a mix of accessible hardstanding stone and tarmac footpaths. Due to the natural landscape the trail does include some gradual slopes and paths can be uneven in places. Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs can be used, however discretion is needed as the trail may not be suitable for all. Wherever possible stewards will assist but this cannot be guaranteed.
Can mobility scooters or wheelchairs be provided?
Mobility equipment will not be available to hire on site.
Can I bring my own mobility scooter or wheelchair?
You are welcome to bring your own but please ensure it is suitable for the trail and is fully charged prior to your visit.
Please be aware that there are sections of the trail which are over uneven and rough terrain which could become more difficult in bad weather. There are also some slight inclines and declines along the route.
Am I eligible for a free personal assistant ticket?
Where an adult or child requires assistance to attend the illuminated trail because of a health condition or disability and is in receipt of any of the following benefits, they will qualify for a free personal assistant ticket:
- Disability Living Allowance (mobility or care component);
- Attendance Allowance;
- Personal Independence Payment (daily living or mobility component).
- A valid Access Card
You may be asked to present documentation on the night. Unfortunately, a Blue Badge cannot be accepted as proof of a health condition or disability. Personal assistants should be 16+.
Personal assistant tickets can only be booked in conjunction with a full price adult or family ticket.
I need more than one personal assistant, what should I do?
If you require more than one personal assistant, please email customerrelations@forestryengland.uk.
Are there Quieter Access Sessions?
Yes, our Relaxed Session is for adults and young people, with additional needs, who would love to experience the trail without the usual high volumes of people. This session will have reduced audio levels and will begin at twilight before the illuminated trail opens to the public, making the transition into the dark much easier.
The capacity of these sessions will be limited to ensure that the trail remains less crowded and more relaxed. Ticket prices for these sessions are consistent with the rest of the illuminated trail, with personal assistants entering for free.
The session will be offered at 4pm on Monday 27 October, click here to book the Relaxed Session.
Will there be strobe lighting?
There will be lighting sequences created within the lighting design that will have some flashing lights contained within them, however, these will not be strobe lighting. We have worked to guidelines on photosensitive epilepsy and will adhere to the industry standard of synchronising effects and locking the sequences to ensure that lights do not operate at more than 5 flashes per second.
Food, Beverage and Retail
Can I purchase food and drink at the venue?
Yes, absolutely! This FAQ will be updated with more details of the catering offered shortly before the event. We will only accept card payments.
Are there cash points at the venue?
There will not be any cash points on site. Only card payments are accepted, this is a cashless event.
Cancellation, Exchanges and Refunds
What happens if the weather is bad or the event is cancelled?
Halloween at High Lodge is an outdoor illuminated trail. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, any decision to cancel the illuminated trail will be taken by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You will be notified by email and text message, and you will be informed of the re-booking process. It is your responsibility to ensure you have entered correct contact details.
We advise you to check the website and social media for the latest updates before you travel. Make sure to check your junk/spam folders to ensure you have not missed any important communication.
If you have not heard from our customer service team regarding a cancellation, the event will go ahead as scheduled. No refunds will be offered simply if the weather is inclement.
I have booked for the wrong day – can I transfer over to another day?
You can transfer to an alternative date/time of the same value in your online account (subject to availability, up to 1 day in advance of your visit).
Can I have a refund?
Tickets are non-refundable, however you can transfer to an alternative date/time of the same value in your online account (subject to availability, up to 1 day in advance of your visit).
Can I sell my tickets?
Forestry England have partnered with Tixel as our official re-sale partner. Tixel provide a safe and easy place for you to sell your tickets if you can no longer attend the event. For more information visit Tixel's website.
Sustainability and ecology
Overview
Our illuminated trails are small, tightly contained, and open for limited hours at a very dormant time of year. It is perceived that we do not foresee any adverse effect on wildlife.
Light Pollution
The trail will be architecturally lit by experienced lighting designers who have developed sensitive ways of working in heritage and landscape settings.
Responding to the natural darkness of the site is key to the success of the illuminated trails. The best visual work is sensitive to light “competition” and the brightness of one light source relative to another. We therefore take advantage of the environmental darkness to reduce the overall brightness of our lighting interventions and allow ample space within our audience experiences for people’s eyes to attune to the darkness, then to allow them to appreciate the sights and sounds of the natural environment as a contrast to, and context for, our artistic efforts. We try to avoid continuous lighting of trails and paths and will only use audience area lighting where it is absolutely necessary for reasons of public safety.
Noise Pollution
Sound installations are created to provide atmosphere and a sense of feeling for an installation. All sounds are targeted and specific to a part of the route and are therefore contained within defined spaces, therefore there is no noise pollution over and above the natural sound level created by the presence of audiences on the trail.
Fuel
Fuel for power generation is kept to a minimum by efficient use of power loadings and low wattage lighting units where appropriate.
Sustainability
Consideration for the illuminated trails sustainability has been built into the planning process for the delivery of the illuminated trail, the end result of which we hope will be to inspire and engage new and existing visitors.
The trail designers, Culture Creative Ltd, have been appointed on the strength of their experience of working in environmentally sensitive ways in heritage and landscape settings.
Specific attention is given to power, and where possible we use mains power. Where generators are needed, these are carefully specified and operated to ensure the most efficient fuel usage. Low wattage lighting units are used where appropriate on the trail.
Culture Creative Ltd’s design ethos is to take advantage of the environmental darkness to reduce the overall brightness of their lighting interventions, whilst maximising the effects of their artistic efforts.
Continuous lighting of trails and paths will be avoided, and we will only use audience area lighting where it is absolutely necessary for reasons of public safety. Care is also taken to ensure that we are considerate of our neighbours who live in the immediate area.
Ecology
The illuminated trail will not be open every night and its impact must be considered both from the standpoint of the venue itself and in relation to surrounding sites. The venue is carefully vetted to ensure that the trail will not have undue impact on the local flora and fauna.
Method
In order to assess the likely impact of the illuminated trail both a desk study and workaround surveys are conducted on each site. The route proposed for the trail, is walked and checked on a regular basis with horticultural staff from the venue, this is an ongoing process and will be constantly checked as the design of the illuminated trail progresses. General Comments The illuminated trail is planned and installed, by private company, Culture Creative Ltd. Culture Creative Ltd specialise in illuminated trails of this kind which are often in sensitive venues with high biodiversity and important historical heritage. Its staff have valuable experience in minimising any negative impacts which might be anticipated and work with venue staff to meet and resolve any concerns which arise.
The duration of the illuminated trails spans to the autumn/winter period, the time of year in which there is least wildlife activity. Many protected species such as bats and amphibians should be hibernating. These are unlikely to be affected unless the illuminated trail passes directly over their hibernation sites. The earliest bird nesting activity is to be expected from February onwards but all the equipment will have been removed well before then. In addition it is open for a maximum of six hours only each night. These restrictions on the open nights and times will reduce any impacts upon wildlife particularly as outdoor events take place at the venue regularly and resident wildlife has adapted to the existing level of disturbance.
Lighting Trail
Generators used on the route are very quiet and will be inaudible from the trail and from any wildlife habituation. The power will be carried using cabling which has been used previously in sites with wildlife populations with no adverse effects. Much of the lighting will be floor based to highlight trees. The trees form part of the cultivated collections at each venue and their welfare is paramount as part of the planning of the illuminated trail.
Flora
Where possible routes will be on hard surfaces i.e. paths. They pass through areas which are well-walked by visitors daily and will not take in any sections of grass with sensitive wild floras.
Birds
Sound and lighting installations surrounding trees or on areas of water where a number of birds have the potential to roost are modified and designed to minimise any potential for damage to birds.
Reptiles and amphibians
There should be no impact from the illuminated trail upon reptiles or amphibians as they should be hibernating away from the water at this time of year. Bats Every care is taken to ensure that any potential bat roosting holes in trees are not lit directly to avoid any potential disturbance during the bat hibernation season.
Litter
Please help us to keep the forest clean and tidy by putting litter in the bins provided. Where possible, please reuse any disposable items and keep waste to a minimum. Our caterers will be happy to refill any reusable water bottles.