Lynford Water

Visitor information

Explore the sights and sounds that Lynford Water, near Mundford, has to offer

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.

Planning a visit? Read our FAQ

At a glance

  • Walking trails
  • Viewpoint
  • Dogs welcome

Things to do

Walking at Lynford Water

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

The walking trail includes the Sequoia Avenue and the Bull Ride statue, as well as a sunken walkway and 'hidden' statues. The area is also a regular haunt of Crossbills.

Find out more

Nearby forests

Desert Rats memorial at High Ash in Thetford forest

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.

Find out more
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.

Find out more
couple enjoying a picnic in a clearing within a forest

Lynford Stag

Glimpsed through the roadside trees, a passing traveller could be forgiven for marvelling at the audacity of the bold deer parading at this popular picnic site.

The distinctive creature, however, is no more than a metal imitation "target stag", found by the workers when the area was being planted.

Find out more
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.

Find out more
Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England