Things to see and do at Winkworth Arboretum

During the autumn, amateur and professional photographers flock to Winkworth to capture the painted landscape planted by Dr Wilfrid Fox. We've created a variety of photography opportunities including workshops and early morning access. If there's a particular photo you're proud of, why not enter it into our annual Winkworth Photographer of the Year competition. 

Early morning photography

Selected dates from 30 Sep - 27 Oct, 7.30am - 9pm

Enjoy exclusive early morning access to the arboretum to capture the calm and quiet atmosphere of Winkworth, with uninterrupted views of the beautiful autumn landscape. £12. Book here. 

Fundamentals of photography one-day workshop

Wed 4 Nov, 10am - 3.30pm

Learn to take great photos with the help of our award-winning photographer, Eddie Hyde. Using Winkworth as your classroom, you'll learn how to get the best from your camera and gain insights into what makes a good photo. Class sizes are limited to six people to ensure you get the most from you teacher. £125 (including entry to Winkworth). Find our more here. 

Woodland photography half day workshop

Wed 18 Nov, 10am - 1pm

A half-day workshop to help you unlock the photographic potential of woodland landscapes. Whether you're looking to improve your technical skills or simply enjoy a creative day outdoors, you'll learn how to work with natural light to compose striking woodland scenes and atmospheric images that tell a story. £75. Find our more here. 

Walking at Winkworth 

Waymarked walks for everyone

There are three routes to help you find your way:

• Upper Arboretum Route (approx 1km) follow the blue markers: This level walk follows a step free path around the top of the arboretum.
• The Boathouse Route (approx 1.5km) follow the orange markers: This is a longer circular walk, taking in Winkworth's key features. There are some steep paths and steps to manage along the way, but you'll be rewarded with beautiful views out across the lake.
• The Winkworth Route (approx 3.7km) follow the red markers: This is the most challenging route, featuring lots of steep slopes. It allows you to explore every corner of the arboretum along the way, including Sorbus Hill and Phillimore Wetlands.

Pick up a map from the visitor welcome desk when you arrive or view it here to plan your visit in advance. 

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome all year round at Winkworth including the cafe and shop. Find out more about visiting with your dog here.

Guided walks

Friendly volunteer guides run regular tours of the arboretum – a great chance to discover more about this renowned collection of trees and shrubs and discover Winkworth's seasonal highlights.  

Social Walks 

Join our friendly team of volunteer walk leaders for walks on both well-loved and lesser-known routes around Winkworth and beyond. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors, explore new places and meet other local people.

Winkworth to Oakhurst Wonder

If you're looking for a longer walk, dig out your walking boots and give the Winkworth to Oakhurst Wonder trail a go. Totalling 2.5 miles, this walk gently meanders through the Surrey countryside allowing you to stop at points of interest along the way and ending at the National Trust's Oakhurst Cottage. Please allow plenty of time to get back before our cafe closes at 4.30pm.  Please note that Oakhurst Cottage is only open for guided tours on selected dates and times in the year and booking in advance is required. 

More to explore

Visit the Boathouse

Featured in many well-known film and TV series, the Boathouse on Rowe’s Flashe Lake is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Explore the wetlands

Once another lake, we've allowed these wetlands to redevelop naturally and they are now thriving with plant life. Keep your feet dry by enjoying the area from the bridge, made completely from recycled plastic bottles.

Discover Badgers Bowl

In the midst of Dr Fox's masterpiece planting is this peaceful glade, perfect for a family picnic or to simply sit and take in the atmosphere.

The Azalea Steps

The Azalea Steps tend to look at their best during mid May, planted with Kurume hybrid azaleas which were introduced from Japan in the 1920s by E.H. Wilson. They give a stunning display of colour in late spring as the colours seem to tumble down the hillside toward the lake. 

The steps are also planted with acers, magnolias and clerodendrum as a backdrop and a bench given to Dr Fox for his 70th birthday in 1955 can still be seen at the top of the steps.

Carved benches

We have two unique chainsaw-carved benches in the Upper Arboretum. The owl bench has looked down over an amazing view for years, and there's now a second bench adorned with fox figures in honour of Winkworth's creator, Dr Wilfrid Fox.

Natural play area and Tree Adventure

Nestled among birch trees is the natural play area. With fun features for all ages, it's a brilliant way to stimulate children's imaginations and encourage enjoyment of the natural environment. Older children will love exploring the Tree Adventure complete with a rope tunnel, mini climbing wall and a firefighter’s pole. 

Worked up an apetite?

After your walk, head over to the café for refreshments. You’ll find a selection of hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes and bakes, plus hot meals. There's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating with dedicated dog-free and dog-friendly locations.

If you wish to drink on the go, bring a reusable cup and receive 25p off any hot drink as thank you for helping us protect the planet.  Please note that to reduce our impact on the environment, single-use cups are not available in the café.

You will also find a water fountain in the outside courtyard area at the entrance to the visitor welcome centre.