
Rhinefield Ornamental Drive
Walk amongst giants! Rhinefield Ornamental Drive boasts towering redwoods and Douglas firs, offering a magical woodland escape in the New Forest.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk amongst giants! Rhinefield Ornamental Drive boasts towering redwoods and Douglas firs, offering a magical woodland escape in the New Forest.
"Amazing trees. The coastal redwoods are something you have to see."

🚗 Park Smart
A car park is available on the left side of the Tall Trees Trail, making access easy for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are generally accessible, but comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the woodland walks.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Redwoods
Tall Trees Trail
Stand in awe of giant coastal redwoods and Douglas firs, some of the largest trees in the UK. A truly humbling sight!

Enchanting Woodland Walks
Various trails off the drive
Meander through ancient woodlands on accessible trails, perfect for a peaceful escape and connecting with nature.

Autumnal Splendor
The entire drive
Experience a breathtaking display of colors during autumn, with vibrant hues transforming the already stunning landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Giants
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
A car park is available on the left side of the Tall Trees Trail, making access easy for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are generally accessible, but comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the woodland walks.
📸 Capture the Giants
Bring your camera to photograph the majestic redwoods and the magical woodland scenery.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a family outing with furry friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
A car park is available on the left side of the Tall Trees Trail, making access easy for many visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are generally accessible, but comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the woodland walks.
📸 Capture the Giants
Bring your camera to photograph the majestic redwoods and the magical woodland scenery.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a family outing with furry friends.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Trail
Several routes branch off the main circular trails, allowing you to extend your walk and discover more hidden gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the awe-inspiring giant trees. Many describe the walks as peaceful and tranquil, even when busy. The autumn colors are frequently highlighted as a spectacular seasonal draw, making it a highly recommended spot for a serene woodland escape.
"Very beautiful place for a peaceful walk just around the corner from Bournemouth"
Vasco Miguel
"Amazing trees. The coastal redwoods are something you have to see. Despite it being busy it was in fact extremely peaceful, lovely walks."
L Ha
"This must be one of the go to places in the New Forest! It's easy to to get to from all angles and have a brilliant trail of tall trees to walk around"
Paul G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is located in the New Forest National Park. It's easily accessible by car, with a postcode of SO42 7QB often cited for navigation. There's a dedicated car park near the Tall Trees Trail.
While driving is the most common way to access the drive, local bus services operate within the New Forest. Check with local transport providers for routes that may get you close to the Brockenhurst area, from where you might need a short taxi or a longer walk.
The drive itself is a road, but the real magic is in exploring the walking trails that branch off it. The Tall Trees Trail is a popular circular route.
While the drive is a road, many of the surrounding forest tracks are suitable for cycling. Always check local signage for any restrictions on cycling within specific woodland areas.
The drive is open year-round. However, during very wet or windy conditions, some trails might become muddy or slippery, so exercise caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive and its walking trails is generally free. There may be charges for parking at designated car parks.
The drive and surrounding woodland are accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's natural light for safety and enjoyment.
The Tall Trees Trail is part of the free-to-access woodland. Parking fees may apply at the nearby car park.
While the drive is technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety hazards on the trails.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised, but local New Forest guides may offer walking tours that include this area. Check local tourism websites for options.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The Tall Trees Trail is a highly recommended 1.5-mile circular walk showcasing impressive Douglas firs and redwoods. Other trails offer longer or shorter options.
You'll find magnificent Douglas firs and coastal redwoods, planted in the late 1850s. These are some of the tallest trees in the UK.
The main paths on the Tall Trees Trail are generally well-maintained and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections might be uneven.
Autumn offers stunning colors, while spring provides lush greenery. The towering trees are impressive year-round.
Facilities can be limited directly at the drive. Brockenhurst village, a short drive away, offers more amenities including cafes and restrooms.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Focus on capturing the scale of the giant redwoods by including people or objects for perspective. Look for light filtering through the canopy for magical shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and soft lighting, ideal for woodland photography.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations for the New Forest National Park before flying a drone.
Use a wider aperture for shallow depth of field to isolate trees, or a smaller aperture for a deep focus to capture the entire scene. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Rhinefield House is a separate attraction. While you might catch glimpses from certain points, dedicated access to photograph the house is separate from the Ornamental Drive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Choose the Tall Trees Trail for an easy, circular walk.
* Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the trees.
* Encourage kids to look up and marvel at the height of the redwoods.
* Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid peak crowds.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Tips for nature lovers and photographers:
* Visit during autumn for spectacular fall colors.
* Experiment with different angles to convey the immense height of the trees.
* Explore lesser-known paths for unique shots and a more secluded experience.
* Be patient and wait for the perfect light to enhance your images.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key advice for dog owners:
* Ensure your dog is on a lead where required or if they tend to wander.
* Bring water for your dog, especially on longer walks.
* Clean up after your dog to keep the area pristine for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Trees of Rhinefield
Walking amongst these giants is a humbling experience. The Tall Trees Trail is a popular 1.5-mile circular route that takes visitors through a particularly impressive section of the drive. It's designed to be accessible, allowing families and individuals of all ages to enjoy the grandeur of these ancient woodlands. The sheer scale of the trees makes for fantastic photographic opportunities, with many visitors sharing stunning images of the towering trunks and the dappled light.
Beyond the main trails, the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive offers a network of paths that allow for longer explorations. These lesser-known routes can provide a more secluded experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility. The Blackwater walk is mentioned as a peaceful option, ideal for a half-term adventure. The changing seasons also bring different beauty, with autumn being particularly spectacular due to the vibrant foliage.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Enjoyment
Entry to the drive and its walking paths is free, which is a significant draw for visitors. However, parking fees may apply at the designated car parks. The drive is open during daylight hours, and while there are no strict opening times, visiting during daylight is essential for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Comfortable footwear is a must, as the trails, while often well-maintained, can be uneven and sometimes muddy, especially after rain.
For those looking to avoid crowds, visiting on weekday mornings is highly recommended. Weekends and school holidays can see a significant increase in visitors, diminishing the sense of peace. The drive is a popular spot for dog walkers, so expect to see many canine companions enjoying the trails. Remember to bring your camera, as the sheer scale and beauty of the trees offer endless photographic possibilities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit