St Helen's Picnic Site

Visitor information

The perfect stop for a picnic and informative forest walk through a designated Forest Nature Reserve

The Little Ouse Valley between Brandon and Thetford has been designated a Forest Nature Reserve by Forestry England in recognition of its importance to wildlife.

Along the valley, wetland areas of alder carr and fen, poplars, damp grazing meadows and reedbeds support a rich variety of plants, insects and birds. St Helen's picnic site, next to the river, is a good base from which to explore. An impressive display of snowdrops can be seen at Santon Downham in the early spring in the woodland opposite the village shop.

You are welcome to picnic here but please do not barbecue.

At a glance

Please don't bring barbecues on site
11/05/2022 15:36
Dogs welcome
11/05/2022 15:37

Things to do

Picnics at St Helen's Picnic Site

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at St Helen's Picnic Site, just bring along good food and company!

You are welcome to picnic here but please do not barbecue. To prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any barbecues into our forests.

Find out more

Walking trails at St Helen's Picnic Site

Interesting information on the history and wildlife of this area can be found on eight panels around the Orange Walk. The walk can be started from St Helen’s Picnic Site or Santon Downham. 

Find out more

Nearby forests

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).

Find out more
Sun bathing

Two Mile Bottom

The magnificent beeches lining the A134 at this site provide the setting for one of the most attractive picnic spots within the forest.

The splendour of the beech canopy affords an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

An open area next to the car park gives opportunities for those wishing to picnic or play during their stay. Here, heather and grasses add a splash of colour and interest for insects such as butterflies and bees, reminiscent of the former Breckland heaths.

Find out more
Sun shining through green trees and shrubs

High Lodge

Every corner of High Lodge has something just waiting to be discovered, the more you walk around the forest, the more you’ll find.

With play areas dotted around the forest, beautiful trails winding through rich wilderness and thrilling mountain biking opportunities, you’ll be itching to return!

The Heritage Trail at High Lodge, built with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy the forest.

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