High Lodge - Forestry England

About

High Lodge sits in the heart of Thetford Forest, the UK’s largest lowland pine forest, on the Norfolk–Suffolk border. Open woodland, wide tracks and sandy soils create the perfect setting to enjoy birdsong, seasonal wildflowers and views through pine trees.

Your starting point at High Lodge

Designed to be welcoming for all visitors, clearly marked trails start from the visitor centre at High Lodge, close to parking, and lead into the wider forest network.

The visitor centre includes a café with indoor and outdoor seating, toilets and an Information Point where staff can offer maps and advice. Accessible toilets, including a Changing Places facility, are available.

Mobility equipment, including all‑terrain scooters and wheelchairs, is available to hire.

Family‑friendly experiences for every age

Play areas alongside walking and cycling routes create opportunities for families, groups and independent visitors to enjoy time outdoors together or at their own pace.

Younger children can enjoy spotting The Gruffalo sculptures dotted around High Lodge. There’s no fixed route, so families can wander freely, keeping an eye out for familiar characters. Optional activity packs are available.

Families with older children, teenagers and active adults will also find plenty to enjoy, from longer walking and cycling routes to activities such as disc golf, pedal and play, archery, adventure golf and treetop experiences.

Walks and trails to suit your day

Waymarked trails set out from High Lodge. The Pine Trail (1.5km) and Nature Trail (1.5km) offer short, gentle walks. The Heritage Trail (4.2km) is a smooth, multi‑user route with 1km and 3km shortcuts, benches and shelters, while the Fir Trail explores quieter forest areas with options of up to 12km.

Several routes, including the Heritage Trail, are suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids and pushchairs.

Dogs are welcome at High Lodge and must be kept on a lead; assistance dogs are welcome throughout the site.

Events and activities throughout the year

High Lodge hosts a varied programme of events throughout the year. Forest Live brings live music each summer in a spacious forest venue with facilities on hand.

Family open days sit alongside wellbeing and active events such as guided trail running, women‑only cycling, forest bathing, sound baths, sauna experiences and duathlons.

Seasonal guided walks explore local wildlife, history and conservation.

Thetford Forest is carefully managed for wildlife and public access. Managed paths, quieter areas and facilities near the visitor centre allow you to enjoy the forest at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to spot butterflies and dragonflies, see woodlark and crossbill, and hear nightjars in summer.

Parking, entry, membership and more

There is no admission charge to access the forest or trails. Parking charges apply, with membership options available for frequent visitors.

Annual membership for High Lodge is available for just under £7 a month, or £8 a month for Forestry England’s national network, including the Forest of Dean and New Forest. Membership includes free parking, supports forest care and accessibility.

For full details, see the High Lodge access information page or contact the team.