Halfway towards Brockenhurst
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Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

4.9
·59 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Halfway towards Brockenhurst

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.9
(59 reviews)

"Amazing trees. The coastal redwoods are something you have to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Redwoods

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

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

Autumnal Splendor

The entire drive

Experience a breathtaking display of colors during autumn, with vibrant hues transforming the already stunning landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Giants

Prepare to be dwarfed by towering redwoods and Douglas firs planted in the 1850s. The Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is home to some of the UK's largest trees, offering a truly awe-inspiring woodland experience. Plan for a leisurely stroll, as the main trails are designed for enjoyment, not speed.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While beautiful year-round, visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can significantly enhance the peaceful atmosphere. Weekends and holidays can attract more visitors, so consider an early morning or late afternoon visit for a more serene experience amidst these magnificent trees.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Stunning fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring
Why
Lush greenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@chrisncars01
47.7K likes • 403.1K views

🚗 Park Smart

A car park is available on the left side of the Tall Trees Trail, making access easy for many visitors. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The trails are generally accessible, but comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the woodland walks. Instagram

yes even i eat cake sometimes… the restaurant we went to was amazing!!📍Soleto Bistro, 11 Commercial Rd, Southampton SO15 1GF #wieiad #whatieatinaday #fulldayofeating #healthyrecipes #wieiadrealistic
@og.eats04
43.7K likes • 328K views
A beautiful afternoon at #rhinefieldornamentaldrive in the @newforestnpa #trees #treesofinstagram #newforestnationalpark #magical #woodland @engnewforest
drones_and_phones_photography
6 likes • 194 views

📸 Capture the Giants

Bring your camera to photograph the majestic redwoods and the magical woodland scenery. Instagram

🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a family outing with furry friends. Instagram

📍 Tall Trees Trail, New Forest Discover the remarkable firs and redwoods that were planted in the late 1850s to create the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive in the New Forest National Park. Walking the easy 1.5miles circular Tall Trees Trail will take you through an impressive section of the drive amongst towering Douglas fir and mighty redwoods. Along the trail you will encounter the biggest trees i...
visit_hampshire
144 likes • 4.7K views

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. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The trails are generally accessible, but comfortable footwear is recommended for enjoying the woodland walks. Instagram

📸 Capture the Giants

Bring your camera to photograph the majestic redwoods and the magical woodland scenery. Instagram

🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a family outing with furry friends. Instagram

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Main Trail

Several routes branch off the main circular trails, allowing you to extend your walk and discover more hidden gems. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(59 reviews)

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

Majestic giant trees
Peaceful woodland walks
Beautiful autumn colors

What People Dislike

Can be busy on weekends

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

The drive is open year-round. However, during very wet or windy conditions, some trails might become muddy or slippery, so exercise caution. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The Tall Trees Trail is part of the free-to-access woodland. Parking fees may apply at the nearby car park. Instagram

While the drive is technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety hazards on the trails. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🌲 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. Instagram+1

You'll find magnificent Douglas firs and coastal redwoods, planted in the late 1850s. These are some of the tallest trees in the UK. Instagram+1

The main paths on the Tall Trees Trail are generally well-maintained and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections might be uneven. Instagram

Autumn offers stunning colors, while spring provides lush greenery. The towering trees are impressive year-round. Reddit

Facilities can be limited directly at the drive. Brockenhurst village, a short drive away, offers more amenities including cafes and restrooms. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and soft lighting, ideal for woodland photography. Reddit

Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations for the New Forest National Park before flying a drone. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is a fantastic destination for families. The Tall Trees Trail is an accessible and engaging walk, perfect for little legs to explore. The sheer size of the trees is captivating for children, sparking imagination and wonder. Instagram It's a great opportunity for kids to connect with nature and learn about different tree species. Instagram Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited directly on the drive. The Blackwater walk is also highlighted as a family-friendly option. Instagram

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

For those who appreciate the natural world and seek stunning photographic subjects, Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is a must-visit. The towering redwoods and Douglas firs provide a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Instagram Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the interplay of light and shadow filtering through the dense canopy, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. Reddit The various trails offer different perspectives, from wide shots showcasing the scale of the forest to intimate details of bark and foliage. Instagram

Tips for nature lovers and photographers:
* Visit during autumn for spectacular fall colors. Reddit
* Experiment with different angles to convey the immense height of the trees.
* Explore lesser-known paths for unique shots and a more secluded experience. Instagram
* Be patient and wait for the perfect light to enhance your images.

🐶 Dog Owners

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is a dog-friendly destination, making it ideal for a walk with your canine companion. The extensive network of trails allows for plenty of sniffing and exploring. Instagram Dogs are welcome on most paths, but it's always good practice to keep them under control, especially if there are other visitors or wildlife around. Reddit The woodland environment provides a stimulating and enjoyable outing for both you and your dog. Instagram

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

The Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is renowned for its collection of giant trees, primarily Douglas firs and coastal redwoods. Planted in the late 1850s, these trees were part of an ambitious Victorian-era forestry experiment. They were intended to grow quickly and provide timber, but their sheer size and beauty quickly turned them into a significant attraction. Many of these trees are among the tallest in the UK, creating a truly awe-inspiring canopy that filters sunlight, casting a magical glow on the forest floor. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram The changing seasons also bring different beauty, with autumn being particularly spectacular due to the vibrant foliage. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Enjoyment

Accessing the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is straightforward, primarily by car, with a postcode like SO42 7QB guiding visitors. A dedicated car park is available near the Tall Trees Trail, making it convenient for most visitors. Instagram While public transport options exist within the New Forest, driving is generally the most practical method for reaching this specific location. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit Comfortable footwear is a must, as the trails, while often well-maintained, can be uneven and sometimes muddy, especially after rain. Instagram

For those looking to avoid crowds, visiting on weekday mornings is highly recommended. Reddit Weekends and school holidays can see a significant increase in visitors, diminishing the sense of peace. Reddit The drive is a popular spot for dog walkers, so expect to see many canine companions enjoying the trails. Instagram Remember to bring your camera, as the sheer scale and beauty of the trees offer endless photographic possibilities. Instagram

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