The lake and Boathouse
1 / 10

Winkworth Arboretum

4.6
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn Mornings

Best light for autumn colors

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
The lake and Boathouse

Winkworth Arboretum

Best Time

Autumn Mornings

Best light for autumn colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(3k reviews)

"A brilliant place to walk in nature and view a stunning variety of trees, perfect for woodland adventures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Autumn Spectacle

Autumn Spectacle

Throughout the Arboretum

Witness a breathtaking display of gold, orange, and crimson foliage painting the landscape.

The Lake Reflections

The Lake Reflections

Main Lake

Capture serene moments as the vibrant trees mirror themselves on the tranquil surface of the lake.

Woodland Adventures

Woodland Adventures

Various Trails

Explore diverse trails, discover hidden bugs, and enjoy family-friendly woodland exploration.

Spring Blooms

Spring Blooms

Throughout the Arboretum

Marvel at the vibrant bluebells, azaleas, and rhododendrons in full bloom during late April and May.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Parking in Advance for Autumn

During peak autumn color season, booking parking ahead is essential to guarantee entry. Arrive in the morning as the sun dips behind the hill by early afternoon, affecting light for photos.

Wear Sensible Footwear

Paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Some routes have eroded sections. Bring sturdy walking shoes for a comfortable and safe exploration of the arboretum's varied terrain.

Best Times

When
Autumn Mornings
Why
Best light for autumn colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late April & May
Why
Bluebells and azaleas bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The whole of the UK adores #guildford in #surrey so let’s see why! #guildfordsurrey #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire #LearnOnTikTok
@philc84
106.2K likes • 1.2M views

🚗 Book Parking Ahead

Essential for autumn visits to guarantee entry. Book online in advance! Reddit

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be muddy and uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

the town that doesn't sleep.lol #England #Surrey
@iamyourangel36
7.5K likes • 256.7K views
🍁 Looking for a picture-perfect autumn day trip near London? 🍂 📍 Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey 📌 A stunning blend of autumn colours awaits at this @nationaltrust gem ☕️ Don’t miss a stop at Surrey’s secret cafe tucked away in the countryside @hilltop.kitchen 🥾 10km loop 🗺️ Search ‘Bramley to Winkworth Arboretum loop’ on @komoot for all the details Tag someone you’d love to explore this hik...
ourwildplan
923 likes • 56.3K views

☀️ Morning Light is Best

Visit in the morning for the best light on autumn colors, as the sun sets early. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Adventure

Great for kids! Look for bugs and enjoy woodland play areas. Reddit

This season and this song = Big warm hug 🤗 ❤️ 📍Winkworth Arboretum #autumnwalks #travelblogger #exploretheworldwithme #reelvideo #everyoneneedsnature
our_filmytravels
63 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Book Parking Ahead

Essential for autumn visits to guarantee entry. Book online in advance! Reddit

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be muddy and uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

☀️ Morning Light is Best

Visit in the morning for the best light on autumn colors, as the sun sets early. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Adventure

Great for kids! Look for bugs and enjoy woodland play areas. Reddit

☕ Cafe Stop

Enjoy hot drinks and food at the cafe, with plenty of outdoor seating. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trail Variety

Choose from 1.5km to 3.5km trails, or longer loops for dedicated walkers. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

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

Stunning autumn colors
Diverse tree collection
Family-friendly woodland

What People Dislike

Muddy/uneven paths
Need to book parking

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Winkworth Arboretum is a short journey from Guildford. You can take bus number 42 from Guildford, which stops at the arboretum. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking parking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like autumn, to guarantee entry. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Winkworth Arboretum is a National Trust preserved woodland, managed to showcase its diverse botanical collection and natural beauty. Instagram+2

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. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Winkworth Arboretum is fantastic for families. Children often enjoy the play area and exploring the woodland for bugs and under logs. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafe near the entrance offering hot food and drinks, with plenty of outdoor seating. Toilet facilities are also located nearby. Reddit

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. Instagram+2

Yes, Winkworth Arboretum is a great place for picnics. You can enjoy your meal amidst the beautiful scenery, with plenty of space to relax. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Winkworth Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families. The woodland setting provides ample opportunities for children to explore, discover bugs, and enjoy the natural environment. There's a dedicated play area that younger visitors often love. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Walkers

For those who love to immerse themselves in nature, Winkworth Arboretum is a paradise. The diverse collection of trees and plants offers something to admire year-round, from spring blooms to autumn foliage. The varied terrain and well-maintained (though sometimes challenging) paths provide excellent walking opportunities. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Winkworth Arboretum a dream location, especially during autumn when the colors are at their most vibrant. The lake offers stunning reflection opportunities, and the winding paths through the woods create beautiful leading lines. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Vision of Winkworth Arboretum

Winkworth Arboretum was founded in 1937 by Dr. Wilfrid Fox, a passionate botanist and horticulturalist. Dr. Fox's vision was to create a woodland garden that offered year-round interest, experimenting with planting based on size, color, texture, scent, and shape. His unconventional approach resulted in a diverse and dynamic landscape that continues to evolve. The care of the arboretum was passed to the National Trust in 1988, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Experiencing Winkworth Arboretum in Autumn

Autumn is arguably the most celebrated season at Winkworth Arboretum, transforming it into a vibrant tapestry of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. The mature trees, meticulously planted by Dr. Fox, put on a spectacular show, drawing visitors from far and wide. The crisp air and the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot create a quintessential autumn experience. Instagram+2

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Navigating Winkworth Arboretum: Trails and Accessibility

Winkworth Arboretum offers a variety of walking trails designed to suit different abilities and interests. Visitors can choose from shorter, more accessible routes, such as the 1.5km or 3.5km trails, or opt for longer, more challenging walks that explore the expansive grounds. The longest routes can take up to two hours to complete. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

You may also like