Explore High Lodge, Thetford Forest

High Lodge tea rooms and outdoor area with benches and families sat together.

Looking for a forest day out packed with adventure, space and variety? High Lodge, set in the heart of Thetford Forest, is one of Forestry England’s most popular destinations - offering something for every age and every pace.

Surrounded by a patchwork of pine woodland, heathland and open spaces, it’s a place where you can walk, cycle, play or simply take time to unwind in nature.

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxed woodland walk or a full family day out, High Lodge makes it easy to explore the forest your way.

High Lodge tea rooms and outdoor area with benches and families sat together.

A Forest Built for Adventure

High Lodge sits within Thetford Forest, the largest lowland pine forest in the UK, offering miles of trails and open space to discover.

This is a forest designed for exploration, with waymarked walking and cycling routes, play areas and activities around every corner. From quiet woodland paths to busier family-friendly areas, there’s plenty of variety to suit your visit.

One of the standout routes is the Heritage Trail - a circular walk that takes you through the forest while uncovering its history, with rest points and shorter options along the way.

What’s There for the Family?

Walking and Exploring

High Lodge offers a range of walking trails through pine woodland, making it easy to choose a route that suits your pace. Paths are well-maintained and designed to be accessible, with places to stop and take in the surroundings.

The forest is constantly changing with the seasons, making every visit feel different.

Cycling and Outdoor Activities

If you’re looking for something more active, High Lodge is a hub for cycling, with waymarked trails for all abilities.

There’s also a wide range of activities to try, including Go Ape, adventure golf, archery, running trails and seasonal events, making it easy to turn your visit into a full day outdoors.

Play and Family Experiences

High Lodge is particularly well suited to families, with large play areas, activity trails and themed experiences like the Gruffalo and Stick Man trails.

These interactive elements make it a great choice for keeping younger visitors engaged while exploring the forest.

Muck Boots Picks for High Lodge

High Lodge offers a mix of firm forest trails, sandy ground and damp woodland areas. Conditions can change throughout the day, so comfortable, waterproof footwear is key for exploring with ease.

Close-up image of someone wearing a pair of Muck Boots Muck Original Boots amongst green foliage.

Muck Original Boots

Inspired by the iconic Chore Boot, the Muck Original is designed as a light-duty essential - ideal for relaxed walks and family days out at High Lodge.

100% Waterproof Protection

Built with a full neoprene bootie and soft, hand-laid rubber outer, helping keep feet dry through damp woodland and muddy paths.

Comfort Underfoot

A moulded PU footbed with a memory foam layer provides cushioning and support, helping reduce fatigue during all-day exploring.

Easy On and Off

Pull-on styling with exposed side panels makes them quick to slip on and off - ideal for spontaneous days outdoors.

Durable Grip

A durable rubber outsole is designed for light-duty use, providing traction across woodland paths and softer ground.

Kids’ Hale

Perfect for younger explorers, the Kids Hale is designed to keep up with busy days outdoors.

Fully Waterproof

Fully waterproof construction which is ideal for puddles, muddy paths and lakeside exploring.

Easy to Pull On

Simple for kids to get on and off, so they can get straight into the adventure.

Durable Grip

A wrap-around sole helps keep little feet steady across uneven woodland ground.

Best Time to Visit

High Lodge is open year-round, with each season offering a different way to explore.

Spring and summer are ideal for longer days outdoors and family activities, while autumn brings colour to the forest. In winter, quieter trails and crisp conditions make it perfect for peaceful walks.

About the Partnership

As part of our exciting partnership with Muck Boots, Forestry England’s first-ever National Wellbeing Partner, we’re bringing together shared values of outdoor adventure, community connection, and wellbeing. This collaboration celebrates the incredible impact nature has on our physical and mental health, and we’re committed to making England’s forests more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Shop Muck Boots Muck Original Boots

Shop Kids’ Hale Boots

Learn more about High Lodge here