
Winkworth Arboretum
A National Trust woodland garden with a stunning lake and diverse trees, offering vibrant seasonal colors and family adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for autumn colors

Winkworth Arboretum
Best Time
Best light for autumn colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A National Trust woodland garden with a stunning lake and diverse trees, offering vibrant seasonal colors and family adventures.
"A brilliant place to walk in nature and view a stunning variety of trees, perfect for woodland adventures."

🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Essential for autumn visits to guarantee entry. Book online in advance!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be muddy and uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Autumn Spectacle
Throughout the Arboretum
Witness a breathtaking display of gold, orange, and crimson foliage painting the landscape.

The Lake Reflections
Main Lake
Capture serene moments as the vibrant trees mirror themselves on the tranquil surface of the lake.

Woodland Adventures
Various Trails
Explore diverse trails, discover hidden bugs, and enjoy family-friendly woodland exploration.

Spring Blooms
Throughout the Arboretum
Marvel at the vibrant bluebells, azaleas, and rhododendrons in full bloom during late April and May.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Parking in Advance for Autumn
Wear Sensible Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Essential for autumn visits to guarantee entry. Book online in advance!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be muddy and uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for exploring.
☀️ Morning Light is Best
Visit in the morning for the best light on autumn colors, as the sun sets early.
👨👩👧 Family Adventure
Great for kids! Look for bugs and enjoy woodland play areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Essential for autumn visits to guarantee entry. Book online in advance!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be muddy and uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for exploring.
☀️ Morning Light is Best
Visit in the morning for the best light on autumn colors, as the sun sets early.
👨👩👧 Family Adventure
Great for kids! Look for bugs and enjoy woodland play areas.
☕ Cafe Stop
Enjoy hot drinks and food at the cafe, with plenty of outdoor seating.
🚶♀️ Trail Variety
Choose from 1.5km to 3.5km trails, or longer loops for dedicated walkers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Winkworth Arboretum for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its vibrant autumn colors and diverse botanical collection. It's highly recommended for family outings, offering woodland adventures and a peaceful escape. Some paths can be muddy and uneven, and booking parking in advance is crucial during peak seasons.
"Incredible colours in Autumn! Visited at the end of October and it was the perfect time to go. Arrived after lunch, parking was a little tight but spaces were available. You can buy tickets in person, no need to book in advance. The longest trail was doable for someone of average fitness, with just a few steep staircases to climb and/or go down. Not crowded at all, and an overall pleasant way to spend an afternoon."
Alex Van Atta
"Beautiful views. More challenging paths in places and steps without rope to hold on to. NT are building a much-needed new visitor and cafe complex with new loos / the only aspect that was disappointing at present. Small cafe at present - lovely coffee and cakes. Lots of outdoor tables. Lots of happy doggies too. Car parking well managed in busy periods."
Linda Penney
"Easy to find and we arrived at opening time so plenty of places to park, although I can see it would get very busy with better weather and summer time! We went to see the autumn colours, unfortunately the recent wind and rain has taken more leaves off the trees. Still a really nice place to walk around and would return for another visit and explore. The toilets aren't too nice but I understand the new welcome centre will be nicer! The staff at saw were friendly and welcoming; only a shame about the leaf blower as could hear it across most of the site - why is this needed at a place that is full of trees and so would be expected?!
Overall a lovely visit 🍂"
Gemma Farley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From London Waterloo, take a South Western Railway train to Guildford. From Guildford, you can catch bus number 42 (operates Monday to Saturday) directly to Winkworth Arboretum. Alternatively, driving is an option with on-site parking available, which can be reserved in advance.
Yes, there is on-site parking. It's highly recommended to reserve your parking in advance, especially during the popular autumn color season, to ensure you can enter.
Yes, you can reach Winkworth Arboretum via public transport. Take a train to Guildford and then a bus (number 42, Mon-Sat) to the arboretum.
Winkworth Arboretum is a short journey from Guildford. You can take bus number 42 from Guildford, which stops at the arboretum.
The nearest train station is Godalming, which is about a 1 hour and 12-minute journey from London Waterloo. From Godalming station, you would need further transport to reach the arboretum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are approximately £12 for adults and £6 for children. It's advisable to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing.
While not always mandatory, booking parking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like autumn, to guarantee entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the National Trust website for Winkworth Arboretum for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Yes, Winkworth Arboretum is a National Trust preserved woodland, managed to showcase its diverse botanical collection and natural beauty.
While specific dog policies can change, National Trust properties generally welcome dogs on leads in outdoor areas. It's recommended to check the National Trust website for Winkworth Arboretum's specific dog policy before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Winkworth Arboretum offers various trails, including 1.5km and 3.5km options, suitable for different fitness levels. There are also longer routes for more dedicated walkers, with the longest taking about 2 hours.
Absolutely! Winkworth Arboretum is fantastic for families. Children often enjoy the play area and exploring the woodland for bugs and under logs.
Yes, there is a cafe near the entrance offering hot food and drinks, with plenty of outdoor seating. Toilet facilities are also located nearby.
The arboretum boasts an enormous and inspiring botanical collection with a wide variety of trees, including those known for their vibrant autumn colors, spring blossoms, and unusual species.
Yes, Winkworth Arboretum is a great place for picnics. You can enjoy your meal amidst the beautiful scenery, with plenty of space to relax.
📸 📸 Photography
For capturing the autumn colors, the morning is ideal. The sun sinks behind the hill by early afternoon, which can affect the lighting and vibrancy of your photos.
The lake, with its reflections of the colorful trees, is a prime spot. The winding paths through the woodland, especially during autumn and spring bloom, also offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Autumn is renowned for its fiery colors, making it a photographer's dream. However, late April and May offer beautiful blooms of bluebells, azaleas, and rhododendrons, providing a different, yet equally picturesque, scene.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and to protect wildlife. It's best to check the National Trust's official guidelines regarding drone usage.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a 24-105mm, is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for sweeping vistas, while a telephoto lens can isolate interesting tree textures or distant views. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some trails can be challenging, there are shorter, more manageable routes suitable for little legs. Bringing a carrier for very young children can be helpful for longer explorations. The chance to look under logs for creatures and enjoy the open spaces makes it an engaging day out for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Walkers
With trails ranging from leisurely strolls to more vigorous hikes, walkers can tailor their experience. The longest routes can take around two hours, allowing for a deep exploration of the arboretum's beauty. Don't forget to wear appropriate footwear, as some paths can be muddy or uneven.
📸 Photographers
Visit in the morning for the best light, as the afternoon sun can diminish the intensity of the colors. Spring also offers a different kind of beauty with abundant blossoms. Be prepared for varied terrain and potentially muddy conditions, so pack accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Vision of Winkworth Arboretum
Dr. Fox's dedication to collecting and planting a wide array of trees and shrubs from around the world has resulted in the stunning botanical collection seen today. Visitors can explore various trails that showcase this diversity, from ancient woodland to more cultivated areas. The arboretum is a testament to his lifelong passion for trees and his desire to share their beauty with others.
The landscape itself is a key feature, with undulating hills, a serene lake, and a wetland area. This varied topography allows for different microclimates, supporting a broad spectrum of plant life. The design encourages exploration, with winding paths leading visitors through a sensory journey of colors, scents, and textures throughout the seasons.
Experiencing Winkworth Arboretum in Autumn
To make the most of your autumn visit, it's crucial to book parking in advance, as this is a peak time. Arriving in the morning is also recommended for the best light for photography and to avoid the largest crowds. The reflections on the lake during this season are particularly breathtaking, offering a perfect photo opportunity.
Beyond the visual spectacle, autumn at Winkworth offers a chance to reconnect with nature. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for longer walks, and the abundance of fallen leaves provides a natural playground for children. It’s a time when the arboretum truly lives up to its reputation as a hidden gem for seasonal beauty.
Navigating Winkworth Arboretum: Trails and Accessibility
It's important to note that some paths can become muddy and uneven, especially after rainfall, and certain sections may have eroded. Therefore, wearing sensible, sturdy walking footwear is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
For those with strollers or young children, a baby or toddler carrier might be more practical for longer walks, although leisurely strolls are still enjoyable with a buggy on some paths. The arboretum also features a boardwalk through a wetland area, offering a unique perspective on the diverse flora.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit