High Ash

Visitor information

Beautiful views and historical features at High Ash

Located near Mundford in Thetford, you won't miss the Cromwell tank that marks the entrance to the forest. A must-see site for those interested in history, this tank is a memorial to the 7th Armoured Division, known as the Desert Rats, who were based here during World War II. 

Learn about High Ash's interesting historic background on the Desert Rats trail, which includes interpretation boards.

Bin free at High Ash

High Ash has now gone bin free. Please tidy up after yourself and take all litter away with you. To reduce waste and prevent forest fires, please do not bring any barbeques into the forest.

Recreational events

Throughout the year High Ash hosts various recreational events. Please take note of any marshals or safety signage in place during your visit.

At a glance 

  • Historic WW2 memorial 
  • Walking trail 

Things to do

Desert Rats Walk at High Ash

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

The easy access route has interpretation boards explaining the history of the Desert Rats and their time in this area during 1944. From this walk it is possible to locate the positions of some of the buildings from the army camp.

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Nearby forests

Sun shining through the trees in a pine forest

Lynford Arboretum

Noted for its variety of bird life, spring flowers and autumn fungi, the arboretum is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet. 

Friends of Thetford Forest

The Friends of Thetford Forest undertake the basic care of the Arboretum with the purpose of nurturing and improving the shrub layer, planting specimen trees and fostering the tranquility of the place.

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A dog sits in open space at Lynford Water

Lynford Water

Lynford Water is an area of flooded gravel pits in the Wissey valley, which includes an area of sandy beach.

60,000 years ago it was a very different place: a chilly, open landscape with different wildlife and a population of Neanderthal humans, the evidence of which was found in an excavation in 2002.

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Santon Downham

Santon Downham

Whether you are seeking a quiet stroll or wish to take in the natural beauty of the local area, Santon Downham is an idyllic part of Suffolk.

Much of the land here originally belonged to the Santon Downham estate, which was at one time owned by Charles Sloane (later Lord Cadogan).

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Sunrise in a conifer forest

Thetford Forest

A patchwork of pines, heathland and broadleaves provide the ideal setting for a great day out, and a welcome refuge for a rich variety of animal and plant life.

18,730 hectares to explore

The forest covers a huge area with many different places to visit, offering a range attractions from the exciting outdoor play facilities at High Lodge to the history and heritage of Mildenhall Warren and Lynford Arboretum and the peace and tranquility of the walks around Santon Downham.

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