Thetford Forest

Visitor information

Discover the UK’s largest manmade lowland 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.

Recreational events

Throughout the year Thetford Forest hosts many recreational events. Please take note of any marshals and safety signage in place during your visit.

Bin-free Thetford

From October 2022, there will be no litter bins available for use within Thetford Forest. Please take any litter home with you. Click here for more information.

Some of our main visitor sites

High Lodge - enjoy a forest adventure at High Lodge!

Lynford Stag - a popular site for a peaceful forest walk.

Lynford Arboretum - don't miss the Arboretum's unique bird life, spring flowers and autumn fungi.

Harling Woods - extend your forest adventure with an overnight stay at Thetford's Forest Holidays site. 

Great Hockham - the perfect place for a peaceful forest day out. 

Things to do

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Forest Holidays at Thorpe Forest, Harling Woods

Cabins can be found in a leafy setting, deep in the countryside beside the River Thet . Stay within striking distance of unspoilt wildlife havens and of course, the epic Norfolk coastline.

Surround yourself in a maze of forest walks, trails and meadow, and enjoy your retreat from the everyday. With underfloor heating, log burners and incredible views, this Forest Holiday is one you aren't likely to forget.

Each and every cabin has its very own private hot tub. Take a refreshing dip in the morning as nature wakes up around you. Or sink back into the bubbles for an evening soak underneath the starlit sky.

Spend time with a dedicated Forest Ranger on location. You can plan a programme of unique experiences to discover the wonders and secrets of the forest.

Find out more

Hit the Dirt off-road practice track

Hit the Dirt at Swaffham

Hit The Dirt is Norfolk's premiere off-road, Enduro practice track, situated just off the A47 at Swaffham.

Operated by Dave Barkshire Motorcycles, it offers both senior/main and junior/ beginner tracks in a great forest setting.

Things to note

The track is only open on Saturdays and Sundays or by prior arrangement. Riding the track when it's closed is illegal and will be dealt with by the Police.

More information and diary dates

Head to Hit the Dirt's website below for full information about this activity.

Find out more

Our work

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A digital sketch showing green vegetation with yellow flowers alongside a wide track between two trees

Thetford Open Habitats project

Find out what we're doing to ensure the sustainability of Thetford Forest and to allow biodiversity to continue thriving.
Discover the project

Our history

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Thetford oral history, felling tree

The People's History of Thetford Forest

Listen to the first hand experiences and accounts of forest workers in this fascinating oral history project.
Hear the stories
Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England