Blackwater Tall Trees Trail
Walk amongst giants on the magical Tall Trees Trail, featuring some of the UK's tallest redwoods and Douglas firs in the New Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Blackwater Tall Trees Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk amongst giants on the magical Tall Trees Trail, featuring some of the UK's tallest redwoods and Douglas firs in the New Forest.
"It really feels magical to walk amongst these majestic trees."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Blackwater Car Park fills up fast! Beat the crowds and secure a spot by arriving early, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Comfy Walking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for an enjoyable walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tall Trees Trail
Blackwater Arboretum
Walk amongst giants! This 1.5-mile loop features towering redwoods and Douglas firs, some of the tallest in the UK.
Blackwater Arboretum
Brockenhurst
Explore a diverse collection of trees from around the world, including ancient firs and majestic conifers.
Ornamental Drive
Near Lyndhurst
A scenic drive or walk lined with impressive trees, planted in the late 1850s, offering a grand introduction to the arboretum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Footwear & Tick Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Blackwater Car Park fills up fast! Beat the crowds and secure a spot by arriving early, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Comfy Walking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for an enjoyable walk.
⚠️ Tick Check After Visit
Be vigilant about ticks, especially in grassy and wooded areas. Check yourself and pets thoroughly post-visit.
☕ Grab a Treat
A coffee and ice cream van is often available at the parking area, perfect for a post-walk refreshment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Blackwater Car Park fills up fast! Beat the crowds and secure a spot by arriving early, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Comfy Walking Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for an enjoyable walk.
⚠️ Tick Check After Visit
Be vigilant about ticks, especially in grassy and wooded areas. Check yourself and pets thoroughly post-visit.
☕ Grab a Treat
A coffee and ice cream van is often available at the parking area, perfect for a post-walk refreshment.
📸 Capture the Majesty
The sheer scale of the trees is breathtaking. Take your time to look up and capture the grandeur.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blackwater Tall Trees Trail for its stunning natural beauty and the awe-inspiring scale of its ancient trees. It's described as a magical and well-maintained place perfect for easy walks and family outings. Some minor concerns include the potential for ticks and busy parking during peak times.
"Love this place! Well maintained. Beautiful trees!
Coffee and ice cream van at the parking is great after long walks.
Be aware of ticks! For the first time during 10 years we’ve got 2 in one go."
linda einemane
"This is a stunning part of the New Forest with beautiful trails. The Tall Tree Trail is a personal favourite of mine, flanked by giant redwood trees it really feels magical to walk amongst these majestic trees. I grew up close to the New Forest and often return as it’s such a special place. This area, as well as Ornamental Drive are well worth visiting."
Louise Watson
"A great walk around some beautiful countryside, pretty flat so easy for all ages. Lots to take in and explore. Can imagine it would be beautiful whatever the season."
Helen Cardoso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tall Trees Trail is located within the Blackwater Arboretum in the New Forest. You can reach it by car, with parking available at the Blackwater Car Park (SO42 7QB). It's also accessible via public transport routes that serve Brockenhurst or Lyndhurst, followed by a walk or local bus. 
Yes, there is a car park at Blackwater Arboretum. It's free to park, but it can get very busy, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
Cycling is a popular way to explore the New Forest. There are designated cycle paths that can lead you to the Blackwater Arboretum area. Some visitors have combined cycling with walks.
While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, you can take buses to nearby towns like Brockenhurst or Lyndhurst and then enjoy a walk or a short taxi ride to the arboretum. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
The postcode for Blackwater Arboretum is SO42 7QB. This will help you navigate using GPS devices or mapping apps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Blackwater Arboretum and the Tall Trees Trail is generally free. Parking at the Blackwater Car Park is also free, though it can be busy.
The arboretum is an outdoor natural space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is no admission fee for the Tall Trees Trail or the Blackwater Arboretum itself. It's a wonderful free natural attraction.
As a natural forest area, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and take all litter with you. During busy periods, parking may be restricted.
Dogs are generally welcome in the New Forest, including the Blackwater Arboretum, but they must be kept on a lead, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Be mindful of tick risks for your pets.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main Tall Trees Trail is a circular route approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long. It's considered an easy walk, suitable for most fitness levels and families.
The main Tall Trees Trail is generally well-maintained and relatively flat, making it suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs. However, some offshoot paths might be more challenging.
You'll see magnificent trees like giant redwoods, mighty Douglas firs, and giant sequoias, some of which are among the tallest in the UK.
Yes, public toilets are available at the Blackwater Arboretum car park, which is convenient for visitors.
Besides the Tall Trees Trail, you can explore other paths within the Blackwater Arboretum and the wider Ornamental Drive area, offering more opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There is often a coffee and ice cream van at the Blackwater Car Park, offering snacks, coffee, and ice cream, including some dairy-free and gluten-free options.
Yes, there are picnic benches available around the Blackwater Arboretum, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch amidst nature.
While the arboretum itself has limited food options, nearby villages like Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst offer a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants for a more substantial meal.
The food truck typically offers essentials like ice cream, coffee, and snacks. It's a convenient stop for a quick bite or a refreshing drink.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy the scenery and save money. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Look up! The sheer height of the redwoods and Douglas firs is the main attraction. Capture the scale by including people or objects for perspective. The dappled light filtering through the canopy also creates beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, the trail is beautiful year-round. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, spring brings fresh green growth, and even winter can provide a moody, atmospheric setting.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the towering trees. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the greens and blues.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with the New Forest National Park authority if you have specific commercial photography plans.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Midday sun can be harsh, but the dense canopy offers shade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The towering trees provide a sense of wonder, sparking imagination and making them feel like they're in a fairytale. There are often picnic benches available, making it a perfect spot for a family lunch amidst nature. Key tips for families:
* Arrive early to secure parking and avoid the busiest times.
* Pack snacks and drinks, though a refreshment van is usually present.
* Encourage kids to look up and marvel at the height of the trees.
* Be mindful of ticks and perform checks after your visit.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Walkers
Consider combining your visit with other walks in the wider New Forest area or exploring the Ornamental Drive for a more extended nature experience. The peaceful atmosphere on weekdays makes it ideal for a tranquil escape.
📸 Photographers
The play of light and shadow through the dense canopy adds depth and mood to your shots. Photography tips:
* Experiment with different angles to emphasize the height of the trees.
* Use people or objects in your frame for scale.
* Visit during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light.
* Consider seasonal changes for varied photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of the Trees
+2The atmosphere on the trail is often described as magical, especially during autumn when the leaves change color, or in spring with the fresh, vibrant greenery. The dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy adds to the enchanting ambiance. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the grandeur of nature.
+1It's important to remember that these are living giants. Visitors are encouraged to stay on the marked paths to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure the longevity of these magnificent trees for future generations.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
Footwear is another key consideration. While the main trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, comfortable walking shoes are essential. The forest floor can be uneven, and you'll want to be comfortable for the entire 1.5-mile loop.
Be aware of ticks, especially during the warmer months. It's advisable to wear long trousers tucked into socks and to perform a thorough tick check on yourself and any pets after your visit. Bringing tick repellent is also a good precaution.
For refreshments, there's often a coffee and ice cream van at the car park, offering a convenient spot for a snack or a drink. Plenty of picnic benches are also available if you prefer to bring your own food.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit